Manston Airfield in Kent has been secured for use by Operation Stack as authorities look for ways to relieve pressure on the M20 during ongoing disruptions in cross-Channel services.
The Department for Transport announced the plan yesterday as an interim measure to better manage the flow of traffic heading towards Dover when disruptions to cross-Channel services occur.
The use of Manston Airfield will also allow authorities to better prioritise certain shipments across Channel, including quick-to-market goods, livestock and hazardous goods. Such loads will be identified on entry to Operation Stack and filtered directly to either the Channel Tunnel or the Port of Dover.
The additional capacity provided by the airfield will provide immediate relief to those living and working around the M20, and the government will continue to work with Kent County Council, Highways England and Kent Police on other measures to minimise disruptions on the region caused by the ongoing problems in Calais.
Transport Minister Lord Ahmad said, “Working together we have found a viable short-term solution to the disruption residents and industry in the M20 corridor from Dover to Maidstone have been experiencing in recent weeks as a result of Operation Stack.
“By using Manston Airfield we have secured an interim solution while we work to find a longer term resolution, which meets the needs of the whole of Kent and of course the interests of British industry.
“I would also like to thank the maritime sector and Eurotunnel which have been supportive in working to maintain cross-Channel operations.”
The use of Manston will be kept under review and impacts will be monitored on local routes and at the Port of Dover.
