M20 Motorway J8-9 closing due to enhanced port security checks

The M20 coastbound carriageway between Junctions 8 and 9 is being temporarily closed due to delays caused by enhanced port security checks.

The closure will allow freight bound for the continent to queue on the empty section of motorway in order to keep any disruption to Kent’s wider road network to a minimum.

All EU-bound freight must use the M20 whilst all other traffic must follow the signed diversions.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Simon Alland of Kent Police said: ‘The closure of the M20 is an emergency measure that is only used following consultation with our partners in the Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) and after a thorough assessment of issues including public safety and traffic volumes.

‘The KRF will continue to monitor the situation closely in order to restore the motorway to its full capacity as soon as possible.’

For the latest traffic and travel updates in Kent including advice on planning ahead and preparing your vehicle, visit: Check before you travel – Kent County Council

For further details about the Kent Resilience Forum visit the Kent Prepared website: https://www.kentprepared.org.uk/