Operation Brock on the M20 – changes for trucks heading to Dover and Eurotunnel
With traffic increasing ahead of Easter in the UK, the Operation Brock system has been activated on the M20 motorway. The introduction of a contraflow system means significant changes for truck drivers heading to the Port of Dover and the Eurotunnel terminal, as well as possible disruptions for transport across the Kent region.
Due to the approaching Easter holiday period in the United Kingdom, road authorities are implementing the Operation Brock traffic management procedure on the M20 motorway. The measures are intended to limit disruptions and maintain traffic flow in the area of ports handling cross-Channel traffic, where an increase in passenger numbers is expected. The implementation of the contraflow system, consisting in directing traffic onto the opposite carriageway, will cover the section between junctions 8 (Maidstone) and 9 (Ashford). This solution is used in situations of increased traffic volume or problems in the functioning of ferry crossings and the Channel Tunnel.
To prepare the infrastructure, an overnight closure of the M20 motorway has been scheduled from 8:00 pm on Wednesday, 1 April to 6:00 am on Thursday, 2 April. During this time, the sections in the direction of London (between junctions 9 and 8) and in the direction of the coast (between junctions 7 and 9) will be closed to traffic. During the works, diversion routes will be designated, and drivers are asked to follow temporary signage instead of navigation systems. After the route reopens, the Operation Brock system will come into force. Special rules will apply to heavy goods vehicle traffic. All trucks heading to the Port of Dover and the Eurotunnel terminal will have to head towards junction 8 of the M20 motorway, where traffic will be organised under the system. In turn, the remaining traffic heading towards the coast, including local transport, will be directed onto the opposite carriageway as part of the contraflow system.
❗ British authorities remind that during active Operation Brock, drivers of heavy goods vehicles heading to the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel must strictly follow signage and the instructions of the services. Bypassing the system or leaving designated routes may result in the vehicle being turned back, directed to the end of the queue and a fine of up to £300. British institutions recommend that drivers take breaks and rest before entering the Operation Brock area, and that they are prepared for possible delays related to border traffic.
