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Kent's Operation Stack is a 'shambles', says RH Freight
Page 10
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RH FREIGHT MD Ian Baxter has described the way that Operation Stack in Kent is currently handled as a "shambles".
The Nottingham-based haulage boss believes congestion would be eased if trucks were filtered into two queues: those heading to the ferry terminal at Dover and others going to Eumtunnel.
The traffic-management plan used by Kent Police queues trucks on sections of the M20 when the Channel Timnel or ports are blocked by bad weather. industrial action, or there is a closure forced by an incident such as a fire or a derailment.
Baxter adds: "There needs to he a system where the trucks heading to the Port of Dover and those heading to Eumtunnel 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 lime."
Peter Carroll, the former boss of Maidstone-based haulage firm Seymour Transport, who is running for a parliamentary seat in the town, believes not enough use has been made of the quick moveable barrier (OMB), 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 crossChannel traffic."