Traffic using a rat run in Dartford will be stopped with the introduction of a lockable barrier across the road.

Powder Mill Lane has gradually become worse, a report before Dartford council says, particularly since new homes were built in Warwick Way.

Drivers use the lane as a shortcut between Hawley Road and Princes Road to avoid queues, but under the plan it would become a no through road.

Wilmington Parish Council has asked for decorative gun barrels to reflect the industrial history of the area and a plaque identifying Powder Mill Lane as part of the parish’s heritage trail.

The money, around £30,000, has been given to Kent County Council by housing developers as part of a planning permission deal for the Clubb Land development off Darenth Road.

A report which went before the joint transportation board at Dartford council on Tuesday night recommended the plan for approval.