Works to implement the ‘Operation Brock’ are set to begin again in September on the M20
Originally planned for December essential works are now due to take place from next month between junctions 9 and 8 on the M20.
The new moveable barrier on the M20 would be deployed when required as part of a system to minimise disruption to drivers and Kent communities.
The system will allow port-bound lorries to be held on the motorway and at the same time help ensure other traffic continues to run in both directions. Unlike previous solutions it also means that, when it is not deployed, the M20 motorway can operate with three lanes running in each direction, at 70mph.
To prepare for the new system Highways England need to do some work on the hard shoulder of the M20 from September. This will be between junctions 9 and 8 of the London-bound carriageway. There will be overnight or lane closures between these junctions from Tuesday 1 September until the end of November.
The London-bound carriageway will be closed overnight, between 9.00pm and 6.00am, from Tuesday 1 September until Friday 11 September and at the same times between Monday 16 November and Wednesday 25 November. Please check online for any updates.
During the work, the London-bound carriageway will be reduced to two lanes with a speed limit of 50mph during the day.
Whenever the London-bound carriageway is closed diversion routes will be in place. These are:
- Junction 9 to 8 London bound diversion route: Traffic will be diverted from junction 9 via the A20 to re-join the M20 at junction 8.
- Vehicles over 4.7m high need to follow a different route, which is to turn around at junction 9 to re-join the M20 towards Dover, then the A20, the A2, then the M2. Drivers should then leave the M2 for the A249, to re-join the M20 at junction 7 and head back towards junction 8.