M2 stays shut both ways through Kent rush hour after a serious crash near Medway Services on Tuesday night

Both directions of the M2 have been shut since 9.10pm on Tuesday following a serious collision on the coastbound carriageway near Medway Services in Kent. Kent Police say the road will stay closed for a "significant period of time," citing the severity of the incident. Long queues are already forming on approach roads as the morning rush hour gets under way.

The coastbound closure stretches from J3 Chatham to J5 Sittingbourne; London-bound traffic is held between J5 and J4 Gillingham.

Knock-on delays are spreading onto the A249 towards Maidstone and the A2 around Rainham.

National Highways is urging drivers to use alternative routes and warning that congestion will worsen as traffic builds.