Operation Brock: Kent traffic management on M20 to Dover and Eurotunnel

Operation Brock to keep the M20 open in both directions in the event of disruption to services across the English Channel.

Operation Brock

Operation Brock uses holding areas for HGV traffic bound for the EU to keep the M20 open in both directions in the event of disruption to services across the English Channel.

Operation Brock holding areas are in Kent at:

A20 Dover TAP
Brock contraflow between M20 junctions 8 and 9
Manston Airfield
M26

Not all the holding areas would be used immediately. They would be deployed in sequence depending on the level of disruption.

Kent roads will remain open for all non-port bound freight.

Operation Brock only applies to lorries heading to mainland Europe through Kent. All other drivers should check conditions before setting out. If crossing the channel, check with service operators for updates.

Find out if Operation Brock is currently active.

What you need to do during Operation Brock

If you are a haulier driving to the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel you must:

follow all road signs, instructions and speed restrictions – do not rely on Sat Navs
be ready to show that you have the right documentation to cross the border

If you fail to comply with instructions, you may face fines and further delays.

Documentation to operate in the EU

Hauliers and commercial drivers must make sure they have the correct documentation to operate in the EU.

If you have incorrect documentation, you may be stopped from proceeding to the border. If this happens, you have the option of going to a holding site to get advice on what you need to be ready to cross the border.

For more information on what documentation you need check Transporting goods between the UK and EU in a no-deal Brexit: guidance for hauliers

Operation Brock and Brexit

In a no deal Brexit scenario, Operation Brock will play a vital role in minimising the impact of any disruption on routes to the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel.

Motorists will begin to see changes in roads infrastructure from the 26 October 2019 when Highways England will close the M20 between junctions 7 to 9 overnight on the London-bound carriageway. This closure is to carry out necessary construction work to have Operation Brock active from Monday 28 October 2019.