Following a day of traffic misery and travel disruption on the coastbound M20, National Highways is making a major change for drivers tomorrow. Shortly after 8.30pm on Friday (July 22) they announced closure of the carriageway between junction 8 and junction 9 alongside Operation Brock which is currently in place on the stretch.
Essentially this means a major diversion for traffic – excepting port-bound heavy goods vehicles. All other coastbound traffic will be diverted off the M20 and on to the A20/A28/B229/A2042/A2070/A20 – to then re-join the M20 at junction 11.
In a statement, National Highways said: “Due to continued disruption to cross-channel travel at the Port of Dover, the Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) has this evening agreed to implement additional traffic management measures alongside Operation Brock.
“These include:
National Highways will implement a closure for all traffic on the M20 coastbound carriageway between J8-9 to ensure EU-bound uses Operation Brock. This will help reduce disruption for other road users and the other roads in Kent.
All port bound HGVs to join the Operation Brock queue at junction 8.
All other coastbound traffic will be diverted off the M20 and on to the A20/A28/B229/A2042/A2070/A20 to re-join the M20 at junction 11
“These additional measures will be introduced immediately and will result in longer journeys but will help keep traffic moving. All drivers planning to travel in or through Kent should plan ahead, follow diversion signs, check before they travel and leave plenty of extra time for their journey.
“These additional measures will be kept under review. In addition, those travelling to the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel should check with their operator before setting out and should pack some food and water in case they are delayed.”
For lorries, they added: “HGV drivers travelling to Eurotunnel of the Port of Dover are reminded they must follow the signs and use the M20 and join Operation Brock at M20 junction 8. Any EU-bound hauliers not complying with signage and trying to jump the queue not only risk a fine of £300, they will also be sent to the back of the queue by Police or enforcement agents, wasting time, fuel and money.
“This includes trying to bypass the M20 by using the M2/A2 at Brenley Corner. The Kent Resilience Forum thanks the people of Kent and others affected by this ongoing disruption for their continued patience.”
