Operation Brock Lifted After Busy Summer on M20
Kent, UK – Operation Brock, the traffic control system on the M20 motorway, is being lifted this weekend after keeping cross-channel traffic moving smoothly all summer. The scheme, vital for managing surges during peak travel, will be removed overnight between Sunday, September 1, and Monday, September 2.
Summer Traffic Hits Record Highs But System Holds Firm
This summer saw record cross-channel bookings, fuelled by holidaymakers and fans heading to the Paris Olympics and Paralympics. Key routes including the Port of Dover and Le Shuttle experienced heavy traffic. Despite the chaos, Operation Brock combined with the Dover Traffic Assessment Project (TAP) on the A20 kept lorries flowing and road clogs to a minimum.
The Kent and Medway Resilience Forum (KMRF) also introduced a permit system for freight drivers, forcing compliance and stopping attempts to dodge Brock’s controls. This helped slash congestion on local roads and kept things moving.
Results: No Round Hill Tunnel Closures & Smooth Sailing at Brenley Corner
- Dover TAP was activated 22 times since Brock kicked off on July 10.
- Operation Brock was in control mode 9 times between July 12 and August 12.
- Round Hill tunnel at Folkestone stayed open all summer, avoiding freight backlogs.
- Traffic management at Brenley Corner was successfully removed after its role was complete.
KMRF Tactical Lead Toby Howe said:
“We’ve had an excellent team from across emergency services, councils, ports, and government agencies working hard all summer to keep the network flowing and East Kent communities protected.
“There were some very busy traffic days, but Brock and TAP have done their job really effectively.”
What’s Next for Kent’s Traffic? EES Bio-checks and New Plans
As Operation Brock ends, part of the M20 will close overnight temporarily with diversions, allowing a full return to normal two-way traffic.
Looking ahead, KMRF is prepping for the EU’s new Entry-Exit System (EES) arriving in November. This will add biometric border checks, potentially impacting traffic. Talks continue with the Department for Transport, Home Office, and ports to create a long-term solution replacing Brock and TAP.
KMRF thanked residents, businesses, tourists, and hauliers for their patience during the busy summer. Travellers using the Port of Dover or Le Shuttle are advised to plan ahead and check operator advice before travelling in the coming weeks.
