Operation Brock to return to the M20 in Kent during Christmas period

Operation Brock will be returning to the M20 in Kent during the Christmas period.

The M20 will be closed between Maidstone and Ashford from 8pm on Sunday 15 December to 6am on Monday 16 December to allow the contraflow to be deployed on a 13-mile section of the road.

The system will be in place between junctions 8 Maidstone and 9 Ashford due to expected high passenger numbers at the Kent ports.

Sean Martell, National Highways, Head of Service Delivery for the South East, said: “Our job is to keep the country moving and Operation Brock helps us to do that during particularly busy periods at the ports in Kent.

“If you’re heading to the continent this Christmas our advice is please use our TRIP guidance to help plan your journey, check with your travel operator before setting off, and allow yourself some extra time to reach your destination.

“We work hard to try and avoid disruption and delays, but these things can happen so always remember to carry essential supplies such as food and water and make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel for your winter travels.”

National Highways says fully signed diversion routes will be in place while the M20 is closed overnight with drivers urged to follow the diversion signs over SatNav instructions.

Once the system is in place, National Highways says all HGVs heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel must follow the signs to join Operation Brock at M20 junction 8.

All other coast bound traffic including local freight and car drivers heading for the continent should follow the signs and crossover to enter the contraflow on the M20 London bound carriageway. 

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