Kent Gears Up for Traffic Chaos with New Measures
Kent is prepping tough traffic tactics to tackle severe Channel crossing disruptions. Plans on the table include Dover TAP, Operation Stack, and potentially activating massive HGV holding zones at Manston Airport.
These steps kick in when storms or strikes wreak havoc on cross-Channel services.
Operation Brock: The M20’s Lifeline
Meet Operation Brock – Kent’s big plan to keep the M20 flowing during Channel hold-ups. The star of the show is a movable barrier, being installed by Highways England. This barrier can be swung into action within hours, creating a dedicated lane to keep traffic moving along the hard shoulder.
More measures are due by December 2020, promising even tighter control. Plus, fresh enforcement powers will give the Kent Resilience Forum muscle to keep heavy trucks in line and prevent gridlock on the Short Straits crossing.
Hauliers Beware: Check Your Docs or Pay Up
Hauliers must now use a new service to check their HGV paperwork before crossing the GB/EU border via Dover or Eurotunnel. This check confirms they have the correct EU import and commodity documents—and crucially, it’s mandatory to get a ‘Kent Access Permit’ before hitting Kent roads.
Flouting the rules or faking paperwork risks a heavy £300 fine. However, the service remains optional for crossings at other UK ports.
