Operation Brock Gets a July-August Comeback on M20 to Tackle Lorry Chaos
Operation Brock Returns on M20
The infamous traffic management system, Operation Brock, is back on the M20 motorway this summer. From July through August, it will handle the huge queues of lorries heading to dover/" title="Dover" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Dover to cross the English Channel.
The Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) spotted a spike in Channel crossing bookings, prompting the move.
How Operation Brock Works
Operation Brock dedicates one carriageway of the M20 for lorries queuing to Dover. The other side runs a contraflow for regular traffic, aiming to keep things moving and avoid gridlock.
The system kicks off overnight on Thursday, covering 13 miles between junction 8 (maidstone/" title="Maidstone" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Maidstone) and junction 9 (Ashford).
Data-Driven Move to Prevent Chaos
Simon Jones, strategic planning lead at KRF, stressed the decision wasn’t taken lightly. “Deployment is based on clear data indicating risks of disruption on routes to Port of Dover and Le Shuttle,” he said. “We’ll keep monitoring and adjusting as needed.”
Keeping Traffic Flowing
By herding freight traffic onto the coastbound side, Operation Brock aims to ease congestion on both the M20 and local roads. The goal is a smooth, orderly lorry flow and minimal delays for all road users.
The KRF and authorities will stay on high alert to manage traffic and guarantee efficient Channel crossings throughout the busy summer period.