Operation Stack has been put into force on the M20 and ferry services from Dover are suspended due to a strike by SeaFrance workers in Calais.

Kent Police confirmed phase two of the operation was in place, which closes the motorway at junction 8 (Leeds Castle) and 9 (Ashford West) so freight traffic can park to wait for the backlog at the Port of Dover to clear.

It is designed to avoid causing gridlock on Kent's roads.

A spokesman for Kent Police said: "It is only introduced as an emergency measure after consultation with other agencies and implemented following a thorough assessment of issues, including safety concerns and disruption on the road network."

Non-freight traffic is diverted onto the A20 at junction 8 of the M20, while lorries are directed back on to the carriageway to queue.

Useful links and further information:

P&O Ferries website >>>

Port of Dover website >>>

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