The Operation Brock moveable barrier system on the M20 in Kent will be deployed from Monday 11th July ahead of the Summer peak period and high passenger numbers, Kent Resilience Forum confirmed today.
Operation Brock is part of a series of measures to improve Kent’s resilience and ensure the smooth flow of traffic through the region in the event of disruption to services across the English Channel.
To ensure safe deployment of the contraflow system, the following closures will be needed:
• 2300 Saturday 9th July to 0500 Sunday 10th July - M20 London bound carriageway between j9-8 will be closed to complete Operation Brock preparation work. This includes vegetation clearance and reinstatement of white lines.
• 2000 Sunday 10th July to 0600 Monday 11th July - M20 London bound carriageway between j9-8 and M20 coast bound carriageway between j7-9 will be closed to install Operation Brock.
A fully signed diversion route will be in place while the M20 is closed overnight.
The Operation Brock contraflow will be deployed overnight on Sunday 10th July.
These times have been chosen to minimise disruption to road users.
Once the barrier is in place, all HGVs heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel must follow the signs to join Operation Brock at M20 junction 8.
Any EU-bound HGVs not complying with signage and trying to use another route to Eurotunnel or the Port of Dover risk a fine of £300. They will also be sent to the back of the queue by Police or enforcement agents, wasting time, fuel and money. This includes trying to bypass the M20 by using the M2/A2 at Brenley Corner.
All other coast-bound traffic - including local freight and car drivers headed for the continent - should follow the signs and cross over to enter the contraflow on the M20 London bound carriageway.
Anyone planning to use Eurotunnel and the Port of Dover is advised to plan their journeys and check with the travel operator before setting out. They should also allow more time for their journeys and make sure they have food and drink with them in case of delays.
The planned west-bound closure of the M2 between junctions 7 and 5 which was scheduled for 15th -18th July has been cancelled.
Simple vehicle checks can help drivers avoid breakdowns, have a safer journey, and save time and money. More information can be found by visiting: nationalhighways.co.uk/road-safety/how-to-check-your-vehicle
As a member of the Kent Resilience Forum (KRF), National Highways is working in partnership with other bodies across Kent to keep the roads moving and minimise disruption to local residents, businesses and communities. The KRF will regularly review if the Operation Brock barrier is still required.
About Operation Brock
Operation Brock is part of a series of measures which crucially keep the M20 open in both directions using a contraflow system.
When Operation Brock is in force it is a legal requirement to use the signed routes only for HGV journeys to Port of Dover and Eurotunnel.
National Highways: South-East
