Operation Stack

Operation Stack is a procedure that uses parts of the M20 to queue lorries travelling towards the continent, to avoid causing gridlock across Kent's roads.

It is used in emergency situations when crossings to the continent cannot happen, such as bad weather or industrial action.

Kent Police are responsible for implementing Operation Stack.

Check the current status of Operation Stack.

Check the roads before you travel

Avoid travelling along the M20 during Operation Stack if possible.

If you need to travel please check the latest travel information from:

• Kent Police website
• Kent Police Facebook
• Follow Kent Police on Twitter
• Highways England website
• Follow Highways England on Twitter
• Kent traffic and travel
• Follow Kent Highways on Twitter

Manston routing

The use of Manston Airfield as a temporary option to help hold lorries as part of Operation Stack – a multi-agency response to deal with the transport disruption – was announced by the Government recently.

Find out more about the Manston routing.

Dover TAP (Traffic Assessment Project)

Dover TAP is a separate scheme to Operation Stack. It is used to manage traffic using the Port of Dover and to improve air quality and reduce congestion in the town. Dover TAP is managed by Highways England.