A 'robust' security fence will surround the new lorry park off the M20 in order to protect drivers according to a new consultation document.

The report reveals more detail about the scheme intended to alleviate the misery of Operation Stack, by providing 3,600 spaces where lorries can wait without blocking the M20.

When not in use for stack, the site will provide 500 overnight spaces along with washing and toilet facilities, a move intended to provide an alternative for drivers parking up at the side of roads.

Drivers will be charged for overnight stays when stack is not in operation, but the price has not yet been set.

They will reach the overnight section of the site through the M20 Services, obviating the need for a new sliproad.

Several public rights of way cross the site including both footpaths and bridleways.

Gates in the security fence will provide public access but these will be locked during Operation Stack.

Technical issues have been blamed for a delay in publishing details of the design for the proposed M20 lorry park.

The document is intended to form the basis of the consultation into the design for the park at Stanford, near Hythe.

The six-week consultation will take place and the agency said they would be considering an extension due to the problem.

Dates for the public exhibitions which will be held during the consultation have today been revealed by Highways England:

• Friday 19th August, 1pm-7pm - Sellindge Village Hall, Main Rd, Ashford TN25 6JX

• Tuesday 23rd August, 2pm-8pm - Leas Cliff Hall, The Leas, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2DZ

• Thursday 25th August, 2pm-8pm - Postling Village Hall, Hythe CT21 4EU

• Friday 2nd September, 1pm-7pm - Sellindge Village Hall, Main Rd, Ashford TN25 6JX

• Saturday 3rd September, 1pm-7pm - Postling Village Hall, Hythe CT21 4EU

• Saturday 10th September, 12pm-6pm - Lympne Village Hall, Aldington Road, Lympne, CT21 4HL

• Monday 12th September, 2pm-8pm - Dover Town Hall, The Maison Dieu, Biggin Street, CT16 1DL

• Wednesday 14th September, 2pm-8pm - St Mary’s Church, Bentley Road, Willesborough, Kent, TN240LB