Operation Brock Hits Kent Roads to Tackle Channel Chaos
Kent’s M20 is the frontline in the battle against Channel disruption. Operation Brock is the government’s secret weapon, ready to plug the gaps caused by reduced ferry capacity at Dover.
When things go sideways in the Channel, lorries heading to Dover or the Eurotunnel back up with nowhere to go. That’s where Operation Brock kicks in: EU-bound freight is funnelled onto the coastbound lanes of the M20 between Junctions 8 and 9. Here, HGVs queue safely before being let through when space at Dover or the Eurotunnel opens up.
Both the coastbound carriageway and the contraflow lanes are used for managing these queues, keeping freight moving and the chaos contained.
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Local Diversion Route: Avoid the M20 Snarl-up
Follow signs with the hollow circle symbol for local traffic detours
- Exit the M20 at Junction 8, take the 2nd exit at the roundabout onto the A20 eastbound towards Ashford.
- Continue on the A20 through Harrietsham, Lenham, and Charing to Drovers roundabout. Take the 1st exit to stay on the A20 towards the M20.
- At the M20 Junction 9 roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the coastbound M20 to resume your journey.
Important for EU freight drivers:
Leave the M20 at Junction 8 and rejoin via the entry slip road at the same junction.
Travel Tip: If these closures affect your route, leave extra time. Plan ahead, consider re-routing, or delay your journey if you can.
