Van Smash Sparks Chaos on M20’s Operation Brock Debut
Motorists hit a nightmare on the M20 coastbound today when a van crashed into the nearside barrier on the very first day of Operation Brock.
The collision caused a massive oil spill stretching over 100 metres. Officials were forced to shut the carriageway between Junction 8 (A20) and Junction 9 (Ashford), triggering gridlock.
Stop-Start Queues Stretch Two Miles as Diversions Kick In
Two miles of stop-start traffic quickly built up as emergency crews raced to clean the oily mess and reopen the road.
National Highways warned: “The eastbound carriageway remains closed while this essential safety work is completed. It will reopen as soon as the area is cleared and safe.”
Drivers are being told to follow hollow circle diversion signs:
- Exit M20 at Junction 8
- Take the third exit at the roundabout
- Follow the first exit at the next roundabout onto the A20
- Continue on A20 to Fougeres Way
- Turn north to Junction 9 and rejoin M20
National Highways urged drivers to “allow extra time or consider re-routing” if affected.
No Serious Injuries but Morning Gridlock Adds to M20 Woes
A police spokesperson confirmed no serious injuries were reported after the crash. Officers arrived quickly after the incident was reported.
The crash came on the back of earlier chaos this morning when a broken-down HGV between Junction 9 (Ashford) and Junction 8 (Hollingbourne) caused delays from around 9am.
Operation Brock Rolled Out to Tackle Festive Traffic Mess
The crash adds to the drama on the M20, which saw Operation Brock activated overnight. The system targets a 13-mile stretch between Junctions 7 and 9 coastbound and Junctions 8 and 9 London-bound.
It’s designed to manage rising congestion levels ahead of the busy festive period at the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel, with thousands expected to travel.
