Easter travel chaos is expected as National Highways reinstate Operation Brock. The traffic-management scheme was reintroduced on the M20 last week.
HGVs headed to the Port of Dover or the Eurotunnel must follow the signs to join Operation Brock at the M20's Junction 8 for Leeds Castle and Maidstone Services.
EU-bound HGVs who do not follow this contraflow system and try to use another route to access the Port of Dover or the Eurotunnel risk being hit with a hefty £300 fine.
This also includes trying to bypass the M20 by using the M2 or A2 at Brenley Corner. Those found trying to avoid Operation Brock would also then be sent to the back of the queue by police or enforcement officers.
Drivers travelling through the contraflow must also follow a 50mph speed limit.
The Junction 8 coast-bound slip road has also been closed to all traffic.
National Highways said: “They [drivers] should also allow more time for their journeys and make sure they are prepared for delays, so should have plenty of fuel, warm clothes, and supplies such as food and drink. Simple vehicle checks can help drivers avoid breakdowns, have a safer journey, and save time and money.”
What is Operation Brock?
Operation Brock is the official name for traffic-calming measures when there is cross-Channel disruption at either the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel.
It uses a "contraflow" system on the London-bound carriageway of the M20 between just north of junction 8 (for Leeds) and Junction 9 (Ashford).
Why did Operation Brock start?
It was originally developed for use in the event of a no-deal Brexit, amid fears withdrawal from the EU could lead to disruption for cross-Channel trade because of an increase in freight traffic.
How is it different from Operation Stack?
While Operation Stack sees the closure of the M20, Operation Brock is designed to keep the motorway flowing by operating a contraflow system between junctions 8 and 9 on the London-bound carriageway.
When did Operation Block start?
The Government announced the scheme in November 2017 as an alternative to Operation Stack.
Operation Block was officially implemented in March 2019.
