Guidance

Kent traffic management on M20 motorway to Dover and Eurotunnel

Measures to manage traffic flow on Kent’s road network in the event of severe disruption to services across the English Channel.

Operation Brock

Operation Brock is a traffic management system designed to keep Kent’s roads open if there is disruption at the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel. 

When Operation Brock is in force HGVs travelling to Port of Dover and Eurotunnel must use the signed routes only. Enforcement officials will be deployed to intercept vehicles trying to use alternative routes. Drivers who are caught will be turned around and risk a £300 fine.

Signs, diversions and speed restrictions will be in place to help drivers reach designated holding areas.

Kent Police take decisions on when to use the different phases of the system, depending on the scale of any disruption.

Options include the A20 Dover TAP, a queuing system that holds lorries until space becomes available at the port. 

Driver welfare

Drivers travelling through Kent should be aware that there is potential for disruption in the event of delays at the border.

Plan your journey to ensure you take breaks and overnight rest periods before entering Kent. This will minimise the risk of hitting drivers’ hours limits.

Find out about motorway service areas along your route.

Make sure you have enough food and water in case of delays at the border. Welfare will be available for drivers stuck in stationary queues for extended periods of time. 

Published 30 January 2020
Last updated 20 April 2021 + show all updates
  1. You no longer need a Kent Access Permit (KAP) to enter Kent.

  2. Updated information about driver welfare.

  3. Added extra detail about Operation Brock.

  4. Additional enforcement powers under Operation Brock plus information on Check an HGV is ready to cross the border service.

  5. Future traffic management information updated.

  6. First published.