Kent and Medway brace for travel mayhem this Easter. The Kent and Medway Resilience Forum (KMRF) has confirmed it will deploy the infamous Operation Brock barrier in anticipation of heavy traffic heading to Europe.
M20 Contraflow Hits the Road
The contraflow system will slam into place on the M20 coastbound between Junctions 8 and 9. A reduced speed limit will be enforced to carve out a dedicated lane just for HGVs to queue up, if needed.
Installation kicks off on Wednesday, 1st April, with the motorway reopening the following day on Thursday, 2nd April. The barrier is set to be removed overnight on Tuesday, 7th April, restoring normal traffic flow by Wednesday, 8th April.
Why The Barrier?
Operation Brock isn’t just roadwork; it’s a pressure valve to keep traffic moving and prevent jams from cascading further down the motorway.
By allowing traffic in both directions via contraflow, it also aims to protect local communities by reducing the risk of having to shut the Roundhill Tunnel near Folkestone — a move that often causes gridlock on local roads.
Warning from the Top
KMRF Strategic Lead for Border Disruption, Simon Jones, said: “We only deploy Operation Brock when clear data shows a spike in demand for crossings. The predicted numbers for this week fully support putting the barrier in place.”
“We understand the decision isn’t popular, but it’s necessary to ease congestion and keep traffic flowing.”
Advice for Drivers
The KMRF urges drivers to check travel routes before heading out. They recommend allowing extra journey time and packing essentials like food, water, and medication — just in case you get stuck in traffic.
