M20 closed Maidstone - Ashford overnight Wednesday 22 May to deploy Operation Brock

Drivers are advised that the M20 will be closed between Maidstone and Ashford overnight on Wednesday (22 May) to allow the Operation Brock contraflow to be deployed.  

The contraflow system is being deployed on a 13-mile section of the M20 between junctions 8 (for Maidstone) and 9 (at Ashford) ahead of the bank holiday, due to expected high passenger numbers.  

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 Wednesday, 22 May to 6am on Thursday, 23 May. 

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

When the M20 reopens on Thursday, 23 May, 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.

About Operation Brock 

Operation Brock is part of a series of measures which crucially keeps 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. 

For more information on Operation Brock and other travel advice visit: https://nationalhighways.co.uk/travel-updates/operation-brock/ 

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/