Customs centre brings fears of freight gridlock
Secret Government plans have emerged, sparking worries
The Government has unveiled plans for a vast Brexit customs clearance centre catering for thousands of lorries in Kent. But one MP fears the site, on the outskirts of Ashford, will result in huge disruption. Damian Green is vehemently opposed to his Government’s plan to turn a 27-acre site close to the M20’s Junction 10a, near Sevington, into a holding spot for HGVs.
It is hoped the new site, which was previously earmarked for a huge industrial estate, will alleviate pressures at Dover postBrexit and reduce hold-ups at the port.
But Mr Green says the Government’s vision for the land which had remained secret until the end of last week - is “unfair to Ashford” as it is “too near too many homes for it to be the right place”.
Work is due to begin this week with fencing, a temporary site office, and an access route from the A2070 link road all due to be installed. I am strongly opposed to this, and have told ministers this,” Mr Green said.
“They are planning to use it as a holding station for lorries if the Channel ports are blocked after the transition period ends in December, because Manston will not be available.
“It could mean several thousand lorries being stored on the site, even if Operation Brock is in force.
“No one has suggested using this site as a lorry park in the many years of discussions on the subject, and it is too near too many homes for it to be the right place. I think this would be hugely disruptive and we have had no indication in all the years of discussion over the M20 that this site would be used for this purpose. I have received assurances this use would only be temporary, but I am sceptical.” While MOJO is being built, custom checks will take place at Waterbrook Park industrial estate.