Operation Brock Back on M20 as Chaos Looms on Kent Roads
Kent’s M20 is bracing for a summer siege as Operation Brock swings back into action, managing the expected flood of traffic heading through Dover and Eurotunnel. The Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) thanked locals, firms, drivers, and hauliers for their patience as the contraflow system returns overnight on Sunday, July 10.
Plan Ahead or Face Gridlock, Warns KRF
Simon Jones, KRF’s Strategic Planning Lead, urged travellers to book cross-Channel trips early to keep Kent moving and business booming. “With record bookings in July and August, especially around school holidays from July 15 and peak weekend July 22-24, expect heavy traffic,” he said.
The contraflow squeezes lorries heading to mainland Europe onto the coastbound carriageway between Junctions 8 and 9 to ease jams. Other vehicles keep flowing in both directions.
Strict Rules for Lorries and Roadworks Ahead
- Lorries must now use designated HGV routes to Dover and Eurotunnel under new legal requirements.
- National Highways had planned to permanently shift the movable barrier to the central reservation, but this work is paused until Brock ends.
Kent Chiefs Pledge Smooth Summer Roads
Nicola Bell, Regional Director for Highways England, said: “Operation Brock has proven to keep freight moving steadily while allowing motorists to get through. We’re committed to reviewing the barrier’s use and removing it ASAP.”
“Thanks to everyone for bearing with us. Hauliers must follow signs and stick to the official route,” Bell added.
With Kent’s roads set to be packed with freight, locals, and sun-seekers, the return of Operation Brock aims to dodge heavy chaos and keep summer journeys on track.
