An accident and over-running roadworks have caused tailbacks and delays on the M20 on the day Operation Brock was brought in ahead of Brexit.

The operation affects the M20 in Kent and is aimed at keeping traffic moving if there is disruption to services across the English Channel.

The plan was scheduled to be in place from 6am to prepare for the UK's exit from the European Union at the end of the month.

But roadworks due to be lifted then remained in place until nearer 8am, Highways England reported, and an accident, which has since been cleared, added to the delays.

Image: A file picture of the M20 motorway with Operation Brock in place

The length of the delays has not been confirmed, but critics, who claim the scheme is Brexit scare-mongering, were quick to condemn matters, with one calling the situation a "mess".


Under Operation Brock, lorries heading for mainland Europe will be sent along the coastbound carriageway, where they can be queued if needed.

There will be a 30mph speed limit on this part of the road.

The M20 will be kept open in both directions for other vehicles by using a contraflow on the London-bound carriageway between junctions 8 and 9 (from Maidstone to Ashford).

The two lanes in each direction will have a speed limit of 50mph.

Drivers should check conditions before setting out and, if they are crossing the Channel, check with their service operator for updates.

Highways England south east operations director Nicola Bell said: "We have worked extensively with our partners in Kent to ensure that the county is as prepared as possible for any disruption to cross-channel services."

Parts of the M20 were closed during the weekend so the road could be prepared.

The UK government has been granted an extension by the EU to allow more time for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to get a Brexit deal approved by parliament.

Highways England said Operation Brock could be stood down if it is no longer needed.

Sky News is broadcasting a Brexit-free channel, weekdays 5pm to 10pm on Sky 523