It's all change at Operation Stack - as changes come into force which could ease the M20 'car park'.

The leading agencies behind the operation - which holds lorries on the M20 when there is a problem with ferries or the Channel Tunnel - are to bring in a number of changes:

• Introducing the moveable barrier earlier
• Looking at ways to 'stand down'Stack earlier
• Looking at bringing in the barrier for use on the Phase 2 section.

Previously the barrier has only been used on Phase 1 - the section between Hythe and the Channel Tunnel (junctions 11 and 12). This created a contraflow, rather than shutting down the whole M20 section.

Now talks are under way to see if could be extended to Phase 2 - between Leeds and Ashford, junctions 8 and 9 - which would mean a contraflow operating there too.

It is hoped Phase 2 will be used less often - and journey times generally will be improved.

Nick Chard, cabinet member for highways at Kent Count Council, said: "What we have all recognised is how much operation stack is a real problem for residents in Kent.

"What we have looked to do it to see how we can make it more efficient by talking to the highways agency, Kent police and the ferry operators.

"In the past phase one has taken time to implement. The quick moveable barriers will be put into place as soon as possible, therefore creating less traffic on the motorways, surrounding roads and in Dover and Folkstone.

"It is still a short-term solution. The lorry park between junctions 10 and 11 of the M20 near Aldington is still being looked at for long term."

The lorry park would be between junctions 10 and 11 of the M20 near Aldington. It would provide 500 overnight parking spaces for heavy lorries and an overflow area for up to 2,500 more during Stack.

Mr Chard added: "We know how important it is to keep traffic moving. Kent businesses lose thousands of pounds whenever Operation Stack is implemented, and motorists suffer the knock-on effects from traffic spilling on to the county roads.

"By working closely with the other agencies concerned and the cross-Channel operators, we are seeking to minimise the adverse impact of Stack. In future, this will be better all round for Kent's travelling public."