Operation Brock Barrier Set for Removal on M20
Kent’s patience has paid off. The infamous Operation Brock contraflow barrier on the M20 motorway is finally coming down this weekend, marking a return to normal traffic after months of disruption.
Highways England crews will remove the barrier between Junctions 9 and 8 (London-bound) on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 April 2021. The move ends the controversial traffic management setup introduced after the EU transition period.
Why the Brock Barrier Was Needed
Operation Brock was launched last December following the unexpected French border closure. Even after it reopened, the contraflow stayed in place to ease customs-related hold-ups for lorries heading to Europe.
Kent’s Resilience Forum partners have been closely monitoring traffic. They are confident new customs processes for HGV drivers no longer pose a major threat to Kent’s roads. This announcement comes as hauliers no longer need a Kent Access Permit to pass through the county.
The barrier itself won’t be scrapped, though. It will be stored safely on the hard shoulder, ready to be deployed swiftly should future Channel disruptions occur.
Officials Praise Kent’s Endurance and Alertness
“With freight volumes back to normal, customs rules better understood and Covid-19 testing sites well-established, the time is right to remove the Operation Brock contraflow,” said Assistant Chief Constable Nikki Faulconbridge, Chair of the Kent Resilience Forum.
“Thanks to the people of Kent for their patience and understanding. The barrier will stay on the hard shoulder and can be reactivated if needed. We’ll continue to monitor traffic closely, especially as tourists return to Kent’s ports.”
Nicola Bell, Highways England Regional Director, added: “We are grateful for everyone’s patience during the barrier’s use. It kept freight flowing steadily through Eurotunnel and Dover, ensuring minimal disruption during a critical time.”
She also paid tribute to the hundreds of workers from Kent Resilience Forum who worked tirelessly to keep traffic moving smoothly.
Kent Prepares for a Busy Summer Ahead
Kent County Council’s senior highways manager Toby Howe said: “Operation Brock was vital to keep Kent moving after Brexit. Despite challenges like Covid testing, serious disruption never materialised thanks to robust planning.”
“Since January, hundreds of thousands of lorries have passed through with crucial goods keeping shelves stocked. But we won’t be complacent as lockdown eases, shops reopen, and international travel returns.”
“We remain prepared to help hauliers and tourists navigate Kent safely this summer.”
