Operation Brock: Back Out for 2025 summer getaway
The Operation Brock contraflow system will be put out on to the M20 as close as possible to the busy cross-Channel getaway period to minimise disruption to residents this summer.
The Kent and Medway Resilience Forum (KMRF) has confirmed the barrier will be deployed overnight on 16th July, meaning the contraflow will be in place from 17th July.
A formal review of whether the barrier needs to stay out will take place in the first week of August.
Operation Brock creates a dedicated lane for HGVs to queue, if needed, between Junctions 8 & 9 of the M20.
Data from the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel shows high volumes of passenger traffic expected every weekend of July.
KMRF Strategic Lead for border disruption, Simon Jones, said: “The decision to put the Op Brock barrier out is made to keep disruption for Kent residents to a minimum and always led by on the number of passenger and freight crossings expected at the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel.
“Our work with central Government to identify a better traffic management solution will continue, alongside our around-the-clock traffic monitoring so everyone can get to where they need to be safely this summer.”
The decision to use this traffic management measure is made collectively by the KMRF, a partnership of agencies including Kent Police, Kent County Council and National Highways.
Acting as a pressure valve to minimise the impact of congestion further down the motorway, Operation Brock allows traffic to use the M20 in both directions through a contraflow system. It also reduces the risk of having to close the Roundhill Tunnel near Folkestone, which can cause disruption on local roads and impact local communities.
Meanwhile, should traffic start to build at the Port of Dover and/or Eurotunnel, the KMRF is advising drivers to check their route before setting off, allow extra time for the journey and pack the car with essentials including food, water, medication, and anything else you or your passengers may need if caught up in traffic.
Further information
- A good place to start is KCC’s Check Before You Travel page
- National Highways travel updates can be found here
- Weather forecasts, warnings and information from the Met Office can be found here