Leader Of Dover District Calls For Action To Improve Safety On A20

The Leader of Dover District Council is calling for an urgent meeting with the new Transport Minister to discuss vital measures to improve safety on the A20 following the multi-vehicle accident this weekend.

Councillor Paul Watkins, Leader of DDC said: "We are calling for motorway standard signing, with automatic variable speed limits for accidents and adverse weather, closure of lay-bys to prevent slow-moving lorries entering the carriageway and causing traffic to brake, continental-style regulations to stop lorries overtaking on gradients, and ideally a crawler lane for slow-moving traffic on the outskirts of Dover.

"Whilst these measures are all important to minimize the potential danger, nothing can substitute the need for safer driving and the recognition of how to deal with fast-moving traffic in adverse weather conditions. However, this stretch of road is notorious for banks of fog blanketing the road, and is a further accident waiting to happen if no action is taken. We are calling for a meeting, via the local MP, with the new Transport Minister at the earliest opportunity."

Dover District Council, with Kent County Council and Primary Care Trust staff, and Capel-Le-Ferne Village Hall volunteers, worked together to set up an emergency rest centre at the Village Hall, following the major accident on the A20 on Saturday. Agencies worked closely with the emergency services following the accident, which involved more than 40 vehicles, and the major emergency plan was put into effect.

The rest centre at Capel-Le-Ferne Village Hall was open all night and eleven people were received. Appropriate care was provided and transport was arranged where required. Seven people stayed overnight. Food and medical advice was provided. Council staff worked through the night to provide assistance. The centre was closed 8.30am on Sunday morning.