Contraflow on M20 Operation Brock Set for Removal This Weekend
National Highways and the Kent Resilience Forum have confirmed the removal of the contraflow system on the M20. The 13-mile contraflow was in place over Christmas between Junctions 8 (Maidstone) and 9 (Ashford) as part of Operation Brock, a precaution against cross-Channel travel chaos.
Contraflow Ends Overnight Friday
The overnight removal begins at 8pm this Friday. By 6am Saturday, two lanes will reopen on the coastbound motorway between Junctions 7 and 9. The London-bound side between Junctions 9 and 8 will also be back to two lanes.
A moveable barrier will be shifted to the coastbound hard shoulder during this time. Then, from 8pm Saturday until 6am Sunday, the London-bound M20 will close overnight to move the barrier into lane 1 for ongoing safety work.
Speed Limits and Safety Barriers to Stay
Between Junctions 8 and 9, both coastbound and London-bound sides will keep a 50mph speed limit while work continues. The barrier remains in place to shield workers during verge repairs and won’t be removed until spring.
“Operation Brock is a critical contingency measure that helps to keep Kent moving in times of cross-Channel disruption,” said Christine Allen, interim regional director for National Highways. “We appreciate everyone’s patience while the contraflow system was in place. The barrier will remain on the London-bound M20 until spring to protect our workforce and allow for safe storage when not in use.”
New Diversions for Drivers
Drivers face new diversion routes on the A20:
- Coastbound: Exit at Junction 7, take the A249 north to M2 Junction 5, then follow the M2 and A2 to Dover.
- Eurotunnel: Head west on the A20 to M20 Junction 13 in Folkestone, then exit at Junction 11 near Hythe.
- London-bound: Follow fully signed diversions along the A20.
- Over-height vehicles: Must use the A2, M2, and A249 routes.
Stay alert for ongoing work and plan your journeys accordingly as the M20 gets back to normal.
