Home   Maidstone   News   Article

The M20 will close this weekend for replacement of Teapot Lane footbridge in Aylesford

Work to replace a footbridge will close four miles of the M20 this weekend.

Teapot Lane footbridge in Aylesford was removed in September, closing the motorway between Junction 4 for Leybourne and Junction 6 at Blue Bell Hill.

Two months on and the bridge is set to be replaced, with same closure in effect from 10pm on Friday.

Contractors demolishing the Teapot Lane footbridge. Picture: Kier Group
Contractors demolishing the Teapot Lane footbridge. Picture: Kier Group

Highways England has closed the motorway until 6am on Monday, but hopes to finish work early, as it did during the bridge's removal.

The new bridge was supposed to be installed by the end of the summer holidays nearly three months ago.

Those dates were scrapped after Highways England realised closing the motorway could effect journeys for people on holiday.

The bridge's removal was moved to September and surrounding villages quickly became rat runs during the closure.

Some motorists were even caught driving the wrong way up an entry slip at the M20 to get off at junction seven.

Last month Highways England announced it would be closing the entry slip to stop drivers doing it again.

Teapot Lane footbridge was removed earlier this year. Picture: Andy Jones
Teapot Lane footbridge was removed earlier this year. Picture: Andy Jones

It had intended to carry out replacement works last weekend, clashing with Remembrance Sunday.

Facing criticism from Remembrance Parade organisers and Chatham and Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch, Highways England vowed to have work done by the morning of Remembrance Sunday.

However to eliminate any risk, Highways England changed its route once more in October.

The closure is due to last from 10pm on Friday, November 16, to 6am on Monday, November 19.

Contractors demolish the Teapot Lane footbridge. Picture: Kier Group
Contractors demolish the Teapot Lane footbridge. Picture: Kier Group

Road chiefs have advised using the A228, M2 and A229 as diversion routes.

The bridge has been removed so a fourth lane of traffic can be added, as part of the £92million smart motorway scheme.

A slightly taller bridge will take its place.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More