The M2 will be closed overnight to allow for resurfacing works following a massive lorry fire.

The motorway was shut for several hours last night (October 25) near Rochester after residents nearby reported hearing “loud explosions” as the vehicle ignited.

One resident in Borstal, Rochester, said: "We heard four or five bangs. People have been going out to try to see what it happening after hearing the bangs."

Both carriageways were closed between junction 3 for Chatham and junction 2 for Strood, and coastbound between junction 1 and junction 2.

The coastbound carriageway was later reopened but the motorway is still shut London-bound with drivers reporting being stuck in hour long delays.

The carriageway will be continue to be shut tonight (October 26) for resurfacing and safety barrier work between junction 3 and junction 2.

It will be sealed off from 8pm until 5am tomorrow morning (October 27) but once reopened two lanes will still stay closed with only one open for traffic.

This is to allow National Highways workers to make the bridge parapet and barrier safe.

Traffic is being diverted but delays will be likely on the approach to the closure and diversion routes, so the government agency is advising drivers to plan ahead.

National Highways said motorists travelling London-bound should exit the M2 at junction 3 and use the roundabout at Walderslade and Blue Bell Hill before entering the southbound carriageway of the A229 towards Maidstone.

The diversion will then take road users off at the A229 at junction 6 for the Cobtree Manor roundabout and continue southbound towards the Running Horse roundabout.

Drivers are then being asked to join the M20 London-bound to junction 4, exit the M20 onto the A228 northbound and then re-join the M2 at junction 2.