Special measures have been implemented tonight to protect a port town from traffic chaos.

The Dover Traffic Access Protocol (TAP) scheme on the A20 at Aycliffe has been triggered due to heavy freight volumes.

The purpose is to prevent port-bound traffic from disrupting the local road network and the A20 through the town.

The measure is expected to be only temporary with Kent Highways saying it could be lifted by 9pm tonight.

In the meantime, one lane is closed on the A20 coastbound from Roundhill Tunnel (Hawkinge/Alkham) to Dover (Western Heights roundabout).

The left-hand lane is only for lorries heading to the Port of Dover. They will be held by traffic lights at the entry to Dover until a space in the port becomes available.

Lorries attempting to avoid the queue by driving down the right-hand lane will be turned around and sent back.

A 40mph speed limit is in place and lay-bys are closed.

All other traffic should use the right-hand lane.