A motorway contraflow system which can significantly increase journey times will be deactivated tonight.

The M20 will be closed overnight between Ashford and Maidstone to allow for the removal of Operation Brock.

Traffic will be blocked Londonbound from junction nine to eight and coastbound junction seven to nine.

National Highways will be working on the route from 9pm today until 6am tomorrow.

The contraflow was deployed on May 23 ahead of the bank holiday weekend and school half term.

When in place, lorries heading to the continent queue on the coastbound side between Ashford and Maidstone, with the London-bound carriageway operating as a contraflow with narrow lanes and a 50mph limit.

A diversion will be in place whilst cones and barriers are moved.

Once deactivated, all three lanes of the M20 will be open, and the 50mph reinstated to 70mph.

A National Highways spokesman added: “The Operation Brock contraflow system on the M20 in Kent will be deactivated overnight.

“To safely remove the contraflow, the M20 will be closed – London bound from junction 9 to 8 and coastbound junction 7 to 9 overnight.

“Clearly signed diversion routes will be in place on the A20 to help road users reach their destination.

“Once removed, both carriageways will re-open with three lanes and the national speed limit back in place”.