Traffic is stretching back for 10 miles on the M20 as a multi-vehicle collision has sparked a huge emergency services response.
The London-bound carriageway is shut between Junction 9 for Ashford and Junction 8 for Maidstone – and an air ambulance has landed at the scene.
National Highways says the route was closed shortly after 8.30am following a multi-vehicle crash, with a lorry understood to be involved.
There are reports of at least 10 ambulances, six police cars and 11 fire vehicles at the scene.
The coastbound carriageway was also closed to allow for the air ambulance to land, which left the scene shortly before 10am. It has since reopened.
A diversion is in place, with road users being advised to follow the hollow square diversion symbol.
Drivers should leave the M20 at Junction 9 and take the first exit towards Ashford/Canterbury.
Traffic delays on the M20 between Junctions 9 and 8 after a crash shut the London-bound carriageway. Picture: Marcus Waters
At the next roundabout, take the third exit onto the A20.
Follow the A20 for about 14 miles, passing through Charing, Lenham and Harrietsham to re-join the M20 westbound at Junction 8.
National Highways added: “If this closure impacts your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.”
A police spokesman described the incident as a “serious collision”, and confirmed officers, paramedics and fire crews are at the scene.
“Motorists should consider alternative routes,” he said.
More as we have it.
