Source: RHA
Dover: P&O Ferry fails inspection as M20 closure continues beyond Easter
Concern mounts at Dover as situation with P&O Ferries continues and closure of M20 impacts queuing international hauliers as well as local CV operators.
The BBC is reporting that the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) discovered a “number of deficiencies” on the Spirit of Britain ship – which sails between Dover and Calais – following an earlier failed inspection of its Pride of Kent vessel last week.
P&O Ferries has previously suggested it would be running services by Good Friday.
Brock
The news follows the Kent Resilience Forum stating that Operation Brock will remain in place until after Easter to manage traffic.
It means that Port-bound freight will queue on the M20 between junction eight and 11 – closing it to all other coastbound traffic.
Additionally, the Dover Traffic Access Protocol (TAP) is also in place on the A20 approach to the Port.
The Kent Resilience Forum has also warned of congestion rising on Thursday as both passenger and freight traffic increase ahead of the Easter weekend.
RHA view
The news of Operation Brock Zero continuing between junction 8 and 11 of the M20 – with freight queuing before entering the Port – comes as the RHA offers a long term solution.
As a result of the recent disruption, the RHA are now calling for a permanent contingency site on the M20 approach to Dover in order to create a long-term solution to the issue.
Across the UK lorry drivers need better facilities. Sign the RHA petition on the issue here.
Executive director of policy and public affairs at the RHA, Rod McKenzie, said a contingency site is required as a solution to the consistent issue created by implementing Operation Brock.
THE WORLDS SAFEST RATCHET STRAP IS HERE. 👇
Rod said: “We cannot keep seeing this every time operational disruption occurs.
“It is expensive and damaging for the economy and reputation of the UK. It is time to take decisive action and deal with this long-term problem.”
Keep On Trucking Clothing
