Operation Brock Stays Put as P&O Ferry Chaos Chokes Cross-Channel Traffic
With P&O ferries still grounded and cross-Channel capacity slashed by a third, Kent’s traffic nightmare isn’t going anywhere soon. Operation Brock remains active, keeping the M20 contraflow system in place to manage the tidal wave of lorries heading from the UK to the continent.
Kent Resilience Forum Hails Operation Brock
Simon Jones, Strategic Planning Lead at Kent Resilience Forum, struck a cautious tone: “We didn’t take this decision lightly. We understand the daily hassle the M20 contraflow causes, but with limited space at Dover and P&O out of commission, this system keeps traffic moving safely and swiftly. We thank Kent residents, HGV drivers, and their employers for their patience.”
National Highways Confident in Traffic Management
Nicola Bell, Regional Director at National Highways, praised Operation Brock’s effectiveness. “It’s working well to manage lorry queues heading to Eurotunnel and Dover. The M20 contraflow is open both ways for all other traffic. Operation TAP near Dover kicks in only occasionally and isn’t causing delays.”
She added: “Keeping Brock allows us to quickly adapt if demand surges at Dover or Eurotunnel. Freight and passenger traffic are expected to stay heavy in coming weeks, so managing this fluidly is vital.”
Why Removing Brock Now Would Be A Disaster
Though the M20 contraflow barrier can be shifted overnight, closing the motorway to do so would cause massive disruption. Without Brock, any spike in HGV numbers – like before Easter – would grind Kent to a halt. The government will review the situation by Tuesday, May 3, to decide if Brock stays longer.
Drivers Warned: Stick To The Rules Or Pay £300 Fine
- If you’re HGV driver, use the M20 and join Operation Brock at junction 8.
- Do not divert to the M2 or A2 – it’s illegal and costly.
- Follow all signs and instructions to avoid £300 fines and wasted time, fuel, and cash.
All travellers through Kent are urged to check traffic updates, build in extra travel time, and pack essentials like food, drink, and medicines. The cross-Channel mess isn’t clearing up yet – so stay prepared.
