M20 Motorway Shutdown Hits Ahead of Easter Travel Surge
The M20 between Maidstone and Ashford will slam shut overnight on Tuesday, March 19. This temporary closure is part of Operation Brock, set to tackle expected chaos as Easter holiday traffic ramps up.
Operation Brock: What You Need to Know
Operation Brock is a traffic management scheme aimed at preventing gridlock caused by potential Channel disruptions. It kicks in when cross-Channel delays threaten to back up the M20 motorway.
- Closure details: London-bound carriageway from Junction 9 (Ashford) to Junction 8 (Maidstone) shut from 8pm on March 19 until 6am March 20.
- Coast-bound stretch from Junction 7 to Junction 9 also closed during the same overnight hours.
Contraflow and Diversions: How to Navigate
Once the motorway reopens, the Brock contraflow system will be active. Drivers must follow all signage closely. Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) heading to Dover or Eurotunnel must enter Operation Brock at Junction 8 or face:
- A £300 fine.
- Being sent to the back of the queue by police.
Coast-bound traffic, including freight and cross-Channel travellers, must follow diversion signs and use the contraflow on the London-bound side.
Plan Ahead to Dodge Delays
Travellers using Eurotunnel or Dover are urged to plan ahead and liaise with travel operators. Allow extra time, fuel up, and pack essentials like warm clothes and snacks to stay prepared.
Operation Brock aims to keep Easter journeys smooth and safe despite traffic pressures. Stay tuned to official sources for live updates and travel advice.
