News

The boss of a haulage company with the UK's largest European road freight network, has described the way Operation Stack is currently handled as a 'shambles'.
 

Ian Baxter, Managing Director of RH Freight, the Nottingham-based haulage company is reported on the www.roadtransport.com website saying he believes congestion would be eased if trucks were filtered into two queues: those heading to the ferry terminal at Dover and others going to Eurotunnel.

Mr Baxter adds: "There needs to be a system where the trucks heading to the Port of Dover and those heading to Eurotunnel are properly separated; and we also need a proper designated area to pull trucks off the motorway.

"These measures would reduce unnecessary congestion and save operators a lot of time."

Peter Carroll, the former boss of Maidstone-based haulage firm Seymour Transport believes not enough use has been made of the quick moveable barrier (QMB), which was introduced in 2007.

The temporary barrier allows four lanes to stay open on the M20 to cars when trucks are parked on the motorway.

He asks: "What's the point of the temporary barrier if this is not being used?"

A spokeswoman for Kent Police says officers have worked with Kent County Council, the Highways Agency and hauliers for several years to identify potential improvements.

She adds: "During that time, it has become clear that an alternative permanent solution must be found. There is general agreement that a lorry park, wherever that may be adopted finally, remains one of the best options to help alleviate what is a recurring problem for when there is disruption to cross-Channel traffic."

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2010