Department for Transport rules out new contract with Manston owners | Updated: 12:46, 09 March 2021 The Department for Transport (DfT) says it will not be maintaining Manston airport as an emergency lorry park after its six-month contract with the owners ends. The site was used during the recent crisis that saw gridlock in Dover over Christmas and the New Year. Lorries at Manston Picture: UKNIP Thousands of hauliers were prevented from crossing the Channel because of the closure of the borders by the French authorities. Many were diverted to Manston to have tests for the coronavirus after the shutdown was lifted but the French authorities said all HGV drivers needed proof of a negative test taken within the previous 72 hours.