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Operation Stack

Operation Stack is the name given to the traffic management plan used by Kent Police when, as a result of restrictions at the Port of Dover, it is necessary to transform sections of the M20 motorway into a lorry park.

When Operation Stack is running, Kent Police park lorries in three rows on parts of the carriageway on the M20 until they can direct them to either the Channel Tunnel or to ferries at Dover, as space becomes available. Other traffic is diverted from the motorway.

Find out more about Operation Stack.

Proposed solution to Operation Stack

It has been well documented that Operation Stack causes inconvenience when there are problems with cross channel services. This can happen between eight and 12 times a year, leaving lorries parked up on the M20 causing inconvenience to hundreds of other users.

Kent also has the problem of a lack of secure overnight lorry parking in the county. This causes lorries to stay overnight in lay-bys and side streets causing damage, pollution and litter. Demand for this facility has intensified due to legislation on drivers' hours that means drivers have to stop in Kent on the inward part of their journey.

To help resolve these issues, Kent County Council, working with other agencies, is considering developing a secure Lorry Park that will also have additional room so that it can also provide a solution to Operation Stack.

Find out more about the proposed lorry park.

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