Operation Stack has been activated on the coastbound M20 motorway to help avoid gridlock on the Kent road network due to travel restrictions for vehicles leaving the UK.
Many European countries have placed travel bans on arrivals from the UK and France has closed its border.
This has led to subsequent closures of the Port of Dover and the Channel Tunnel.
The southbound M20 is being used to stack lorries between junctions 8 for Maidstone East and junction 11 for Westenhanger.
Motorists – including all hauliers – are advised to avoid travelling to Kent ports until further notice.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has urged people not to travel to Kent ports as “significant disruption” was likely.
What is Operation Stack?
Operation Stack sees part of the M20 motorway used to queue lorries travelling to the continent.
This is to avoid gridlock across Kent’s road network.
It is used in two stages – first between junction 8 at Maidstone services to junction 9 at Ashford.
If more space is required, as is the case with the current operation, the closed section extends to junction 11.
Freight is separated into two queues on either side of the coastbound carriageway. One is for Channel Tunnel traffic and one is for port traffic.
The middle lanes are kept clear for emergency vehicles.
Lorries are released in stages only by request of either the Port of Dover or the Channel Tunnel.
Because of the staged approach, says Kent Police, stretches of the motorway may clear from time to time.
What should motorists do during Operation Stack?
The M20 motorway is closed to non-freight traffic when Operation Stack is on.
Those heading to the Channel Tunnel should use the M20 and A20, following the yellow hollow circle diversion symbol.
Those leading to the Port of Dover should use the A2, M2 and A2 again.
Those who are already on the M20 when Operation Stack is put in place will be diverted off at junction 7 via the A249, M2 and A2 towards Dover.
Motorists are advised to check before travelling and carry plenty of water and food in case of delays.
Both Highways England South East and Kent Police regularly update social media feeds during Operation Stack to keep both motorists and hauliers fully informed.
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