More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Operation Brock will be back in force for three weeks this month as Kent is braced for a spike in travel over the Easter holidays.
The unpopular contraflow system slows traffic on the M20 to 50mph during busy periods and when there is disruption to travel across the English Channel.
Ashford MP Sojan Joseph says he was previously assured by Kent County Council that the scheme would only be implemented in emergencies.
However, the local authority has now announced Operation Brock will be enforced between April 2 and April 22 in anticipation of increased travel over Easter.
“I am extremely disappointed with Kent County Council’s decision to reinstate Operation Brock over the Easter break,” Mr Sojan said.
“It causes a massive amount of inconvenience to my constituents, [especially] given the increased congestion around Ashford at the current time.
“I would seriously urge them to reconsider their decision.”
Operation Brock is implemented between Junction 9 at Ashford and Junction 8 at Maidstone in an attempt to avoid cross-Channel traffic clogging up local roads when there are delays at the border.
Lorries heading to the continent queue on the coastbound side, with the London-bound carriageway operating as a contraflow with narrow lanes and a 50mph limit.
But the system has been described as a “massive inconvenience” for residents, and Kent MPs have questioned whether it is necessary to put it in place during every school holiday.
In January, it was revealed the government is working on a permanent solution to the problem of congestion at the Port of Dover backing up traffic deep into Kent.
The new system would use a combination of new digital technology and off-road sites to hold HGVs during disruption, but is still in the early planning stages.
Sean Martell, of National Highways, said: “Our job is to keep the country moving and Operation Brock helps us to do that during particularly busy periods at the ports in Kent.
“If you’re heading to the continent this Easter our advice is please use our TRIP guidance to help plan your journey, check with your travel operator before setting off, and allow yourself some extra time to reach your destination.
“We work hard to try and avoid disruption and delays, but these things can happen so always remember to carry essential supplies such as food and water and make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel for your winter travels.”
