Operation Brock is returning to Kent for the May Bank holiday weekend. The contraflow system will be in place on the 13-mile coastbound section of the M20 between Junctions 8 (Leeds Castle, Maidstone) and 9 (Ashford), with a 50mph speed limit to create dedicated lanes for HGVs aiming to cross the English Channel to queue, if needed, according to Kent Online.
The barrier will be removed after the holiday on Tuesday 26 May with an overnight closure, with the motorway reopening fully on Wednesday 27 May.
The Kent and Medway Resilience Forum (KMRF) said the barrier was necessary because of the anticipated high numbers of tourists passing through Kent for a half-term getaway. It allows non-HGV traffic to continue 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.
Simon Jones, the strategic lead for border disruption, said:
“Based on the data we have been given on expected travel numbers from Kent’s portals, the KMRF has decided to deploy Operation Brock. We understand this decision is not always popular, and we do not take this step lightly.
“Our priority is ensuring everyone’s safety. These measures, combined with traffic management officers and partner resources, will help to keep Kent moving during the busy getaway period.”
(Picture: Kent County Council)
