Operation Brock contraflow to be deployed from Monday 16 December in preparation for the Christmas holiday period
Drivers are advised the M20 will be closed between Maidstone and Ashford overnight on Sunday 15 December to allow the Operation Brock contraflow to be deployed.
The contraflow system is being deployed on a 13-mile section of the M20 between junctions 8 Maidstone and 9 Ashford, ahead of the festive period, due to expected high passenger numbers at the Kent ports.
Operation Brock is part of a series of measures to improve Kent’s resilience and ensure the smooth flow of traffic through the region in the event of disruption to services across the English Channel.
To safely deploy the contraflow, the M20 will be closed – London bound from junction 9 to 8 and coastbound junction 7 to 9 – overnight from 8pm on Sunday 15 December to 6am on Monday 16 December.
Fully signed diversion routes will be in place while the M20 is closed overnight. These times have been chosen to minimise disruption to road users and ensure the roads are suitable for the traffic.
We advise all drivers to follow the diversion signs over their SatNav instructions.
When the M20 reopens on Monday 16 December the Brock contraflow will be active and all signs should be followed. Once the barrier is in place, all HGVs heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel must follow the signs to join Operation Brock at M20 junction 8.
All other coast bound traffic – including local freight and car drivers heading for the continent – should follow the signs and crossover to enter the contraflow on the M20 London bound carriageway.
Sean Martell, National Highways, Head of Service Delivery for the South East, said: “Our job is to keep the country moving and Operation Brock helps us to do that during particularly busy periods at the ports in Kent.
“If you’re heading to the continent this Christmas our advice is please use our TRIP guidance to help plan your journey, check with your travel operator before setting off, and allow yourself some extra time to reach your destination.
“We work hard to try and avoid disruption and delays, but these things can happen so always remember to carry essential supplies such as food and water and make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel for your winter travels.”
Notes to Editors
About Operation Brock
Operation Brock is part of a series of measures which crucially keeps the M20 open in both directions using a contraflow system.
When Operation Brock is in force it is a legal requirement to use the signed routes only for HGV journeys to Port of Dover and Eurotunnel.
For more information on Operation Brock and other travel advice visit: https://nationalhighways.co.uk/travel-updates/operation-brock/
Simple vehicle checks can help drivers avoid breakdowns, have a safer journey, and save time and money. More information can be found by visiting: nationalhighways.co.uk/road-safety/how-to-check-your-vehicle/
