With cross-channel bookings surging in the lead-up to Christmas, the Kent and Medway Resilience Forum (KMRF) has confirmed the deployment of Operation Brock on the M20 for a limited period.
The contraflow system will be in place on the London-bound carriageway between Junctions 8 and 9 and started overnight on Sunday 15 December, continuing until Sunday 22 December. The contraflow will enable lorries to be held on the coast-bound carriageway if the Dover TAP queuing system on the A20 becomes full.
Cross-channel operators, including the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel, expect their peak traffic days to fall on 19, 20, and 21 December, coinciding with school holidays and hauliers returning to the continent ahead of Christmas. Potential bad weather during this period could further contribute to delays.
To prevent disruption, a permit scheme trialled successfully in the summer will also be reinstated. Under this system, HGVs heading to the Port of Dover will require a valid permit. Without one, access to the port will be denied.
The KMRF will monitor traffic levels 24/7 during this period, with support from Kent County Council, emergency services, and traffic officers in Dover.
Kind regards
Stephen Spendley-Director of Operations
UK Coach Operators Association- 07990 049832
