A SPECIAL raised platform has been used by Essex Police this afternoon to resolve the situation at the Dartford Crossing and bring it to a safe conclusion.

Two men representing the JustStopOil group have been on the QEII bridge suspension cables since early yesterday morning.

After the men came down just after 5pm today (Tuesday, 18 October, the two were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance.

The raised platform allowed specialist officers to work at height and make engagement with the two people. who then came down.

Just before that happened, Essex Police issued a statement.

Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow said: "We are working as quickly and as safely as possible to resolve this situation. 

"The two people who remain at height on the bridge have put themselves in considerable danger and as a result, we and our emergency services face a considerable challenge. 

"Our priority is to keep our county moving but we also have a duty of care to the two people, as well as those who may be involved in any resolution at height." 

Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow said: "This specialist equipment will allow specially trained officers to work at great height which gives us an advantage in resolving this situation.

"I know this situation is incredibly frustrating, but we are doing everything possible to resolve this situation as quickly and as safely as possible.

"To be clear, we are not in any way anti-protest. The right to protest is enshrined in law and we will always seek to facilitate safe protest where we can. 

"However, it is unacceptable for people to think they can put lives in danger and selfishly stop others going about their lives and the public rightly expect us to take action against anyone who believes they can do this – and we will."

Update to follow.