The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced from the end of the EU Transition period, there will be new traffic flow measures to manage congestion on Kent’s road network.
These measures are known as Operation Brock and will apply to HGVs over 7.5 tonnes, if there’s severe disruption to services across the English Channel.
It is a legal requirement for HGVs to follow the signed routes when directed to do so on journeys to Port of Dover and Eurotunnel. It may be a requirement to wait in a designated holding area with signs, diversions and speed restrictions in place for guidance.
More information on Operation Brock can be found here.
Plan ahead
Plan ahead of a journey to take breaks and rest periods before entering Kent to reduce the risk of exceeding drivers’ hours limits if delayed by being held in any queues. Be sure to have plenty of food and water, too. If delays risk exceeding driving limits, be aware of locations where to take a break en route.
Check an HGV is Ready to Cross the Border
Drivers will need to use the Check an HGV service to:
- Get a Kent Access Permit – even if a vehicle is empty and intending to cross the border
- Check EU import and commodities documents for the goods being carried are correct
Fines of £300 can be issued for not using the service or providing a fraudulent declaration. Hauliers making domestic journeys or travelling within Kent will not require a Kent Access Permit.
