The traffic-holding system known as Operation Brock will be reinstated on the M20 motorway to manage the high volume of lorries queueing to cross the English Channel between July and August. The decision comes after the Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) observed a significant number of crossings booked during this period.

Operation Brock involves allocating one side of the M20 for queuing lorries heading to Dover, while the other carriageway is used as a contraflow for other traffic. This system aims to minimize disruption and ease congestion caused by freight vehicles travelling to mainland Europe.

After being lifted in June, Operation Brock will be reinstated overnight on Thursday, covering a 13-mile stretch of the motorway between junctions eight (Maidstone) and nine (Ashford).

Simon Jones, the strategic planning lead of the KRF, emphasized that the decision to deploy Operation Brock is based on data and intelligence indicating a potential risk of disruption on routes to the Port of Dover and Le Shuttle. Its purpose is to protect the local road network and manage the flow of freight destined for mainland Europe.

The decision to deploy Operation Brock is never taken lightly and is based on data and intelligence that clearly shows there is a potential risk of disruption on routes to the Port of Dover and Le Shuttle,” said Mr Jones. He further stated that the deployment of the system would be continually monitored and reviewed.

Operation Brock aims to ensure a smooth and orderly movement of lorries, reducing the impact of congestion on both the motorway and local roads. By directing freight traffic onto the coastbound carriageway of the M20, it helps to maintain traffic flow and prevent excessive delays.

The KRF and relevant authorities will closely monitor the situation and make adjustments as necessary to effectively manage the flow of traffic and ensure efficient operations at the Channel crossings.