Research conducted by the Port of Dover into the best solution for Operation Stack has been dismissed by MP Charlie Elphicke.

It proposed that using a section of the A256 dual carriageway between Dover and Eastry could hold more than 1,000 lorries.

The second option is to use the A2 from the Lydden Hill junction, which is the last section of carriageway, northwards towards Bridge.

It said this route could hold up to 640 light goods vehicles.

But Mr Elphicke said that residents have told him the suggestions are “simply crackpot.”

He said: “I have consulted widely on the Harbour Board’s plan to turn the A2 and the A256 into lorry parks.

“This plan would cut off Deal, Sandwich and the rural villages.

“The Harbour Board are seeking to block lorry parks on the M20 but everyone knows this is the obvious long term solution.

“They need to work with the Dover, Deal and wider Kent community in helping to deliver this much needed long term solution.”

The statement from the port said:“Both options directly feed Dover and would be particularly beneficial for local hauliers who currently have to travel some 40 miles to join the back of stack.

'Both options directly feed Dover and would be particularly beneficial for local hauliers...' - Port of Dover

“A further option with minimal advantages using the A2 Jubilee Way was also identified but is the least favoured.”

It said that the options keeps port traffic closer, which reduces lorry miles and air pollution.

A port spokesman said: “While the port will continue to work positively with partners in operating the Manston scheme as and when required, it still believes that the potential options may have considerable benefits for local hauliers, for the port and operation of the Stack, for the residents of Dover and also the residents of Thanet.”

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