Operation Brock to Stay Put as P&O Ferry Chaos Hits Kent
With P&O ferry services still suspended, cross-Channel freight capacity has plunged by a third. To keep Kent moving, officials have decided to keep Operation Brock running on the M20, managing lorries headed from the UK to Europe.
Traffic Troubles Hit Kent’s M20
Kent Resilience Forum’s Simon Jones said the move wasn’t easy. He explained: “We know the M20 contraflow hits day-to-day journeys, but with Dover’s limited capacity and P&O ferries out of action, this system is crucial for safe, smooth travel. We thank Kent’s residents, HGV drivers and their employers for their patience.”
National Highways Back Operation Brock
Nicola Bell, Regional Director of National Highways, added: “Operation Brock is working well. It helps manage lorry flows to Eurotunnel and Dover, keeping the M20 open in both directions to other traffic. Operation TAP is in use sometimes but isn’t causing delays.”
Bell also warned that demand at Dover and Eurotunnel remains high. “Keeping Brock helps us respond quickly to traffic surges. Safety and predictability are top priorities.”
Why Removing Brock Could Backfire
Although the contraflow barrier can be moved overnight, shutting the M20 to do this causes major disruption. Without the barrier, any spike in lorry traffic – like before Easter – would wreak havoc. Operation Brock’s status will be reviewed by Tuesday, May 3.
Travel Tips for Kent Visitors
- Check before you travel
- Allow extra journey time
- Bring food, drink, and medicines
HGV drivers must stick to the M20, avoid the M2 and A2, join Brock at junction 8, and follow all signs. Ignoring rules risks hefty fines of £300 plus wasted time and fuel.
