Operation Brock is making a return to the M20 motorway as authorities prepare for the summer getaway surge towards the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel.

The contraflow system will come into effect from 6am on Thursday, July 17, spanning junctions 8 (Hollingbourne) to 9 (Ashford) on the coastbound carriageway. To facilitate its installation, the M20 will be closed overnight from 8pm tonight (Wednesday) until Thursday morning.

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Diversion Routes in Place

Fully signed diversion routes are being implemented during the closure. Drivers are advised to ignore satnav instructions and follow the signage.

• London-bound traffic (J9 to J8):
  Diverted via:

  • A20

  • A2

  • M2

  • A229

  • Rejoining the M20 at junction 6

• Coastbound traffic (J7 to J9):
  Diverted via:

  • A249

  • M2

  • A2

  • A20

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What is Operation Brock?

Operation Brock is a traffic management scheme used to prevent port-bound freight traffic from clogging Kent’s road network during periods of disruption or peak travel demand.

Once implemented:

• HGVs heading to the continent must join Operation Brock at J8

• All other coastbound traffic, including local vehicles, will use the contraflow on the London-bound carriageway

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 Officials Urge Preparedness

A National Highways spokesperson said:

“The contraflow is being reinstated over a 13-mile stretch between junctions 8 and 9 to help manage increased travel to Kent’s ports. It’s part of measures to boost resilience and ensure traffic keeps flowing during busy holiday periods.”

An end date has not yet been confirmed, though previous deployments have lasted until early September.

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TRIP: Travel Prep Tips

Motorists are urged to plan using the ‘TRIP’ acronym:

• Top-up: Fuel, oil, screen wash

• Rest: Break every 2 hours

• Inspect: Tyres, tread, pressure

• Prepare: Check weather, route, food/water