Operation Brock Activated on M20 Tonight Amid Dover Ferry Crisis
The moveable barrier system known as Operation Brock will be deployed on the M20 in Kent tonight (Monday 21 March). This precaution comes as ferry capacity at the Port of Dover remains severely reduced, the Kent Resilience Forum confirmed.
While there’s enough room to handle displaced P&O freight, authorities want to minimise disruption and keep traffic flowing smoothly through Kent.
M20 to Close Overnight for Contraflow Setup
The M20 will shut between junctions 8 and 9 (Maidstone to Ashford) from 8pm tonight. Both carriageways are expected to reopen by 6am Tuesday 22 March, but with the contraflow system in place. This overnight closure aims to reduce inconvenience for commuters and freight hauliers.
The contraflow directs lorries bound for mainland Europe onto the coastbound carriageway, where they will queue if needed. All other vehicles, including cars and local freight heading to the continent, must follow signs to cross over into the contraflow on the London-bound side.
How Operation Brock Works
- Operation Brock keeps the M20 open both ways using a moveable barrier contraflow system.
- HGVs to Port of Dover and Eurotunnel must legally follow signed routes.
- Over 14,000 tonnes of concrete blocks and 8,000 cones are deployed by specialist machines in just hours.
- Fully signed diversions will operate during the overnight closure.
Official Comments: Keeping Kent Moving
Simon Jones, KRF Strategic Planning Lead said: “With P&O services still suspended, we’ve agreed to implement Brock contraflow. This protects local communities and helps keep Kent’s traffic flowing smoothly.”
“We’ll keep the barrier deployment under close review and remove it as soon as possible. Thanks to everyone for your patience.”
Nicola Bell, Highways England Regional Director added: “Operation Brock remains the best way to keep businesses and residents moving with as little disruption as possible.”
“The moveable barrier has proved effective before. Hauliers must follow the M20 signs and stick to the official routes.”
Stay updated and plan your journey at nationalhighways.co.uk/travel-updates/operation-brock/.
