Overview

• The westbound carriageway is closed between J9 (Ashford) and J8 (Maidstone/Hollingbourne) following a multi‑vehicle collision in the early hours.
• Emergency services and National Highways traffic officers are on scene, with some vehicles trapped in the closure now being escorted past the incident.
• National Highways reports significant debris and central reservation damage, with contractors undertaking clean‑up and barrier repairs.
• Drivers are being sent on a hollow‑square diversion via the A20 through Charing, Lenham and Harrietsham, with delays expected through the morning peak.
• Officials indicate a provisional reopening window around 10:00 to 10:30, though the exact number of vehicles involved remains unconfirmed.