Logistics UK slams Operation Brock as costly and disruptive

Operation Brock on the M20 in Kent must not be seen as a permanent solution to traffic problems near the port of Dover, according to Logistics UK.

The business group was responding to the announcement last week by the Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) that the contraflow system was being rolled out again between junctions 8 and 9 ahead of what it predicted would be a busy summer holiday.

Logistics UK said the ongoing movement of freight through the port was a priority and it pointed to the cost and disruption caused by Brock each time it is implemented.

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Jonathan Walker, head of cities and infrastructure policy at Logistics UK, said: “While we are encouraged that consideration is being given to the flow of traffic during peak periods, Operation Brock is only a temporary fix and does not provide adequate rest and hygiene facilities for professional drivers or those travelling to the continent.

“With significant changes to border controls due to be implemented from October which will also create the potential for delays around the port, it is vital a more permanent, efficient and cost-effective measure is introduced to ensure the smooth flow of goods.”

Announcing Brock’s implementation, the KRF’s strategic planning lead Simon Jones, said: “I am absolutely committed to keeping the deployment of the barrier under constant review over the coming weeks and removing it as soon as possible.”