Kent Unveils Operation Fennel to Tackle Post-Brexit Chaos
Kent has published its game plan for handling potential traffic mayhem when the Brexit transition officially ends on January 1. With the UK exiting the Single Market and Customs Union, new border checks will hit Channel crossings hard.
What’s Changing at the Border?
From January 1, the EU will treat the UK as a “third country,” slapping on full customs controls and border checks. This spells delays for hauliers and travellers using the short Channel crossings.
Kent’s multi-agency Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) has sprung into action with Operation Fennel, their blueprint to keep the M20 open and chaos to a minimum. The plan, created alongside national government, covers everything from traffic holding areas to driver welfare.
Multi-Agency Team Ready to Roll
The KRF brings together Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue, South East Coast Ambulance Service, local councils, the Department for Transport, Highways England, and HMRC. Their mission: prevent gridlock and protect local residents, businesses, and road users.
Operation Fennel is ready to handle queues of up to 7,000 HGVs—the worst-case scenario predicted. Different tactics will kick in depending on traffic conditions, ensuring flexibility.
Mark Rolfe: “Keeping Kent Moving Is Our Top Priority”
“The Port of Dover and the Channel Tunnel are vital national links,” said Mark Rolfe, Head of Kent Resilience Team. “Together, they handle 69% of all goods vehicles and 89% of powered goods vehicles traveling between the UK and EU.”
“Starting January 1, new freight and tourist processing could cause congestion and longer journey times. Through the KRF, we’ve united key agencies to keep Kent moving and minimise disruption for communities, travellers, and the environment.”
“We will operate a safe, strategic transport system and provide reliable travel info to all road users.”
New Digital Tools for Freight
The government will also launch a digital “Check an HGV is Ready to Cross the Border” service. Freight hauliers can get a Kent Access Permit online before hitting the roads, smoothing the flow into Kent.
With Operation Fennel in place, Kent is braced to tackle post-Brexit border chaos head on—and keep Britain’s gateway to Europe moving.
