The M20 eastbound motorway in Kent was closed on Friday after a crash forced the carriageway to shut between Junction 8 (Hollingbourne) and Junction 9 (Ashford), causing significant travel disruption for commuters and freight traffic, National Highways confirmed.
Traffic was brought to a standstill on the vital route connecting Kent with London and the south-east as emergency services responded to the collision. Drivers reported severe delays and long queues as authorities implemented a full closure of the eastbound carriageway while recovery and clean-up operations were underway.
National Highways said the closure remains in place as crews work to clear the scene and make the road safe for reopening. Police, traffic officers, and recovery teams were all present at the site, assisting with traffic management and ensuring that the affected stretch is fully inspected before it is reopened to traffic.
Authorities have urged motorists to avoid the area if possible and to allow extra time for their journeys, as the closure and resulting diversions are expected to extend travel times significantly.
Eastbound drivers have been advised to follow the hollow circle diversion signs: exit the M20 at Junction 8, take the A20 towards Fougeres Way, and rejoin the M20 at Junction 9 once past the closure point.
The M20 is a key artery for both passenger traffic and freight, including vehicles heading towards the Channel crossings. As a result, closures and delays on this stretch have broader implications beyond local travel, affecting logistics, deliveries, and daily commutes throughout the region.
Motorists travelling in the area are advised to plan ahead, check live traffic updates, and consider alternative routes wherever possible. National Highways continues to provide updates via its official channels, including the Traffic England website and regional travel alerts, as work progresses to clear the carriageway and restore normal traffic flow.
Further information, including an estimated timeframe for reopening, is expected once officials have completed their assessment and ensured the route is safe. In the meantime, drivers are urged to be patient and stay informed of changing traffic conditions as recovery efforts continue.
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