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A dedicated lorry park off the M26 in Kent is being proposed by Moto, which it said would address the chronic shortage of secure HGV parking in the county.

The new rest stop would be built at junction 2A of the motorway and it is now asking for feedback from the public on the plans.

The proposal comes less than a month after the government stepped in to remove controversial powers from Kent County Council to clamp HGVs parked in laybys.

The county has long-standing parking problems for truckers and Moto said HGV drivers deserved better.

The site would provide space for 200 lorries and Moto said the location, near Wrotham, was “uniquely placed” to address the need.

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Although the location is within an area of green belt land, the motorway service area said the visual impact would be limited through “additional planting and landscaping, as well as the retention of existing hedgerows and trees where possible”.

Ken McMeikan, Moto chief executive, said: “I am delighted to confirm that Moto will be bringing forward proposals for a new HGV truck stop that will help address the chronic lack of secure HGV parking in the county.

“Not only do the plans offer a safe, and much needed, alternative for HGV drivers, they will result in almost £20m being invested in the local economy.

We will continue to work with, and listen to, all stakeholders throughout the imminent application process.”

He added: “HGV drivers have been amongst the unsung heroes of the Covid-19 pandemic, moving vital goods and medicines across the country, and we believe they deserve the best facilities to rest and rejuvenate.”

Interested parties can submit their feedback online at www.moto-m26.co.uk

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