The A20 Roundhill Tunnel in Kent has been shut in both directions tonight (Wednesday, 3 September), causing widespread traffic chaos. A sudden technical fault has forced a full closure, resulting in heavy congestion between the A260 near Hawkinge and the M20/A259 near Folkestone.
National Highways confirmed that engineers are currently on site working hard to resolve the problem. However, the tunnel remains completely closed for the time being, leading to major delays for motorists travelling eastbound or westbound.
Authorities have put diversions in place and urge drivers to follow the clearly marked official routes, which use hollow symbols on signs for guidance:
Eastbound (hollow circle): Leave the M20 at Junction 13, take the A259 Churchill Avenue east to the A260 Canterbury Road roundabout, then follow the A260 northbound to the Spitfire Way roundabout where you rejoin the A20 coastbound.
Westbound (hollow square): Exit the A20 onto Alkham Valley Road, head south-west to the A260, then south towards Folkestone. At the Canterbury Road roundabout, take the third exit onto the A259 Churchill Avenue and rejoin the M20 at Junction 13.
A National Highways spokesperson said, “We are working to resolve the issue at the Roundhill Tunnel as quickly as possible. Drivers should allow extra journey time and use the official diversion routes.”
For ongoing updates on this disruption, drivers are advised to check the Traffic England website, follow regional Twitter feeds, or call the National Highways 24/7 hotline on 0300 123 5000.
Originally published by UKNIP.
