Plan ahead for travel to Kent ports, Logistics UK urges hauliers

The situation at Eurotunnel and the Port of Dover improved last weekend compared to the acute disruption experienced on the previous weekend (22-24 July 2022), when state schools had broken up for the long summer break. But motorists still faced delays of up to two hours, as the Port of Dover expected 18,000 freight vehicles and 45,000 cars to pass through.

National Highways has reminded transport operators that all HGVs heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel must follow the signs to join Operation Brock, which will remain in place throughout the summer, at Junction 8 on the M20. All other coast-bound traffic – including local freight – should follow the signs and cross over to enter the contraflow on the M20 London-bound carriageway.

Any EU-bound HGVs not complying with signage and trying to use another route to Eurotunnel or the Port of Dover (including trying to bypass the M20 by using the M2/A2 at Brenley Corner), not only risk a fine of £300, they will also be sent to the back of the queue by police or enforcement agencies.

Natalie Chapman, Head of Policy – South, Logistics UK, said: “French border controls are now fully staffed, which has improved the flow of traffic across the Short Straits. However, the route is still very busy as the demand for cross-Channel sailings remains high, particularly at weekends, so we are urging members to allow plenty of extra time to complete the check-in process and border controls. We echo National Highways’ advice for drivers to be prepared for their journeys and ensure that they have plenty of food and water available in case of delays.”

*www.logistics.org.uk/brexit

Published On: 04/08/2022 16:00:00

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