Operation Brock contraflow to be deployed on Tuesday 19 March ahead of Easter holidays

Published: 18/03/2024

Drivers are being advised that the M20 will be closed between Maidstone and Ashford overnight on Tuesday (19 March) to allow the Operation Brock contraflow to be deployed. The contraflow system is being deployed ahead of the Easter holiday due to expected high passenger numbers.

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 safely deploy the contraflow, the M20 will be closed – London bound from junction 9 to 8 and coastbound junction 7 to 9 – overnight from 8pm on Tuesday 19 March to 6am on Wednesday 20 March.

Fully signed diversion routes will be place while the M20 is closed overnight. These times have been chosen to minimise disruption to road users.

When the M20 reopens on Wednesday 20 March, the Brock contraflow will be in place and all signs should be followed.

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 heading 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 are 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 are prepared for delays, so should have plenty of fuel, warm clothes, and supplies such as food and drink.

Simple vehicle checks can help drivers avoid breakdowns, have a safer journey, and save time and money. More information can be found by visiting the National Highways website.