M20 Shuts Down Between Junctions 8 and 9 as Operation Stack Kicks In
The M20 motorway is currently closed between Junction 8 for Hollingbourne and Leeds Castle, and Junction 9 for Ashford. Highways England confirms the closure is due to Operation Stack being put into action.
Why Operation Stack Is Back on the Roads
Operation Stack is activated amid heightened police checks at the Port of Dover. Vehicles and passengers are subjected to extra security measures, causing delays for freight crossing the Channel.
What Is Operation Stack?
- It’s a policing tactic used by Kent Police and the Port of Dover to manage traffic chaos.
- Lorries are literally “stacked” or parked on the M20 when Channel travel is disrupted.
- It helps ease congestion caused by delays at key cross-Channel services, like the Channel Tunnel and Dover port.
Kent Police manage Operation Stack under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, with a crack team from Operation Fennel coordinating the response.
Drivers are urged to avoid the area if possible and expect lengthy delays.
