During the past couple of challenging weeks, the Port has on occasion asked for a reconsideration of this approach in order to manage the freight flows at Aycliffe (on the outskirts of Dover on the A20 where the traffic management measures would otherwise regulate this traffic) as well as enabling quicker transit between the holding area for freight and the Port when ferries are ready and waiting to load.

The Port is entirely aware that there are genuine challenges to achieving this and fully understands and respects the views of its multi-agency partners who have provided such fantastic support throughout the period of disruption in France and its impact on Kent.  We are also aware of the relief that the A20 traffic management measures have achieved for Aycliffe residents and Dover in general. 

Whilst we wait for the ongoing issues in Calais and the regrettable ramifications of the actions of aggrieved French militants on our ferry operator partners to play out, it is likely that we will need these valuable A20 traffic management measures more often than not over the summer.  This will help us to manage what will undoubtedly be a busy tourist season whilst seeking to limit the impact on our community of what continues to be a growing freight market.

So we will continue working in a spirit of close cooperation with our valued partners to look for the best solution to dealing with what still remains a challenging time for us all.

 

ENDS

Issued by Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00)

Notes to Editors