Drivers heading to the continent this Easter are being advised to plan ahead as Operation Brock contraflow will be deployed on the M20 from Thursday, April 3. The measure is being put in place to manage expected high passenger numbers at the Kent ports during the holiday period.
Overnight Road Closures for Setup
To safely implement the contraflow system, the M20 will be closed overnight between Maidstone and Ashford on Wednesday, April 2, from 10 pm to 6 am the following morning. The closure will affect:
- London-bound traffic: Junction 9 (Ashford) to Junction 8 (Maidstone)
- Coastbound traffic: Junction 7 to Junction 9
During this period, fully signed diversion routes will be in place to minimize disruption. Drivers are encouraged to follow the diversion signs rather than relying on SatNav instructions.
What is Operation Brock?
Operation Brock is a contraflow traffic management system designed to keep Kent’s road network flowing during periods of high congestion, particularly when there are disruptions at the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel. The system uses a moveable barrier to create a contraflow on the London-bound carriageway, allowing traffic to continue moving while managing freight queues.
The contraflow will cover a 13-mile stretch between Junction 8 (Maidstone) and Junction 9 (Ashford). Once in place, all HGVs heading to the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel will need to join Operation Brock at M20 Junction 8, following the dedicated signs.
Other coastbound traffic, including local freight and cars heading to the continent, will cross over to enter the contraflow on the M20 London-bound carriageway.
Advice for Drivers
Sean Martell, Head of Service Delivery for the South East at National Highways, 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 Easter, our advice is to 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.”
Martell also emphasized the importance of being prepared for potential delays:
“We work hard to try and avoid disruption, but these things can happen, so always remember to carry essential supplies such as food and water and ensure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.”
Keeping Kent Moving
Operation Brock is one of several measures put in place to improve Kent’s resilience and maintain traffic flow, especially when there are challenges to cross-Channel services.
Drivers are urged to remain patient and adhere to the traffic management signs once the contraflow is active. Updates will be available on the National Highways website and social media channels.
