M20 lane closure to remain after lorry crash
A lane will remain closed along a busy stretch of the M20[1] today (October 8) following a crash which badly damaged the central reservation. Shortly before 5pm yesterday, National Highways confirmed a multi-vehicle collision had taken place on the motorway between junction 8, for Maidstone[2], and junction 9, for Ashford[3]. One of the vehicles had crossed through the central reservation, causing "significant damage" which required urgent repairs.
Teams from National Highways took to the scene and there were no injuries reported. Lane closures were subsequently implemented in both directions, causing traffic and delays to build along the busy route. Crews worked to recover the involved vehicles and images shared from the scene showed a lorry had sustained a considerable amount of damage to its trailer.
At the incident's peak, drivers faced delays of around 45 minutes in the area. A full carriageway closure was implemented overnight from around 10pm on the M20 westbound between J9 and J8 to allow repairs to continue.
Lane three of three remains closed on the M20 westbound between J9 and J8 today (October 8) (Image: National Highways)
The eastbound carriageway was also shut overnight between J7, for Maidstone and Sittingbourne[4], and J9 for planned roadworks. Shortly after 5am this morning, National Highways confirmed the M20 westbound had re-opened.
However, lane three of three remains closed for barrier repairs and this is set to be in place throughout the day. Further repairs will then take place tonight. The eastbound carriageway has been fully re-opened following the overnight roadworks.
Find the full details on all of the roadworks and overnight closures impacting Kent's busiest motorways and A-roads this week here[5].
Never get stuck in a jam again with our FREE traffic and travel email for KentLive readers. Find out more here[6]