Traffic management measures in
Kent have been lifted as trade returns to normal levels, meaning less paperwork
for hauliers.
The DfT said the Kent Access
Pass (KAP) had been instrumental in avoiding delays at the border, by ensuring
that HGV drivers had the correct paperwork before setting off and allowing them
to move quickly through the UK’s ports. The latest DfT data shows a 46%
increase in exports in February.
Compliance with the KAP
obligation from industry has been consistently high, tracking at more than 80%
since the middle of January for non-GB hauliers, while the latest data shows
the average compliance with the KAP obligation is at 86%.
The moveable barrier on the M20,
designed to allow traffic on the M20 to continue in both directions, was also
removed on 24 April.
The DfT’s 46 information and
advice sites for hauliers will remain open for support and Covid-19 testing.
The busiest sites are expected to remain in place until at least August.
Business group, Logistics UK,
welcomed the news, with a spokesperson commenting: “The government’s decision
to abolish the Kent Access Permit is a reflection of the hard work undertaken
by logistics businesses across the supply chain to ensure operations are border
ready before hauliers embark on travel to the Channel ports. The Check an HGV
service has been an effective tool in guiding businesses to the paperwork
needed to cross the border.
“Today’s news is positive for
the industry and, in conjunction with the deactivation of the M20 Operation
Brock contraflow, will support the smooth flow of trade to and from the UK.
Logistics UK is now urging government and industry to ensure the entire supply
chain is ready for the introduction of further EU-UK border controls from 1
January 2022 to keep trade flowing freely in the months and years to come.”