Operation Brock Barrier to Shift, Easing M20 Congestion
The controversial traffic scheme controlling freight on the M20—put in place after P&O ferries suspended services over two months ago—is set for a key change.
Barrier Move to Central Reservation
National Highways will relocate the coastbound contraflow barrier from the hard shoulder to the central reservation between Junctions 8 (Maidstone) and 9 (Ashford). This move is vital for safety and marks a fresh chapter for Operation Brock.
“KRF partners promised our residents, businesses, and hauliers we would keep the use of Brock under constant review and remove it as soon as it was practical to do so,” said Simon Jones, Kent Resilience Forum Strategic Lead. “We can safely deliver on our pledge now that the half-term and Jubilee holidays are over.”
Keeping Kent Moving Amid Growing Traffic
Jones added: “Our country serves as a major gateway to Europe, and cross-Channel traffic has returned to pre-pandemic levels. We will continue to use traffic management—the best option available—to keep Kent moving, businesses open, and communities safe from disruption. We appreciate everyone’s continued patience.”
Long-Term Works to Last Into 2024
The project includes major drainage upgrades along the 13-mile stretch and maintaining a 50mph speed limit on both carriageways throughout. Highways England Regional Director Nicola Bell said the current setup was temporary.
“Storing the moveable barrier on the London-bound hard shoulder of the M20 was only a temporary solution. Moving the structure to the central reservation will restore the original width of the hard shoulder between Ashford and Maidstone.”
The barrier relocation and improvements are expected to continue into early next year, promising safer, smoother journeys on one of the UK’s busiest freight routes.
