Residents warn giant lorry park will cause heartbreak and anger

'LIGHT, NOISE AND STINK' WILL IMPACT VAST AREA

- By CATHERINE LANGSTON [e-mail] @MyDover

A KENT-based developer has unveiled plans for a major new lorry park near the Port of Dover, intended to address the critical shortage of secure HGV parking in the region.

However, the proposal has run into fierce opposition from local residents who fear the development will “ruin” an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The controversial facility is proposed for a 70-acre site off the A20 at the Court Wood Interchange, the final junction before the Port of Dover. The project, led by GSE Group - which operates the Ashford International Truckstop - would offer 24/7 secure parking for 600 HGVs, as well as welfare facilities for drivers.

The site is positioned to provide parking for approximately 10 per cent of the port’s daily traffic within five miles of the ferries, and developers argue that the move is essential, citing inappropriate lorry parking, which causes noise, air pollution, and antisocial behaviour on local roads.

The plans have been met with strong objections from residents of West Hougham. One objector took to social media to campaign against the proposal.