Plans to solve the long running traffic issues on a busy junction are being discussed.

A study, which will look at options on how to tackle congestion around J1a of the M25, near the Dartford Crossing, is set to take place in the coming months.

Earlier this year, a study carried out by Kent County Council (KCC), Highways England, and Dartford Council identified the issues surrounding the accident black-spot.

One area it examined was how the bridge operates when lanes are closed to allow access for lorries carrying dangerous goods – which has caused problems in the past.

Principal transport planner for Dartford Council, Lukman Agboola, said: "We brought this consultation together to make sure we were not missing a trick when going forward.

"The consultants have now completed the initial study and we've had chance to get together in a workshop with KCC and Highways England and we've now agreed on a way forward.

"A feasibility study will be commissioned to look at options for developing the solutions to traffic problems in the area."

A brief for the feasibility study is due to be completed by the end of the month. The study will then take place over the next three months.

Mr Agboola added: "When we come back, we will be able to look at what is possible and which part of the network is impacted.

"At this stage, we are getting somewhere with this.

"We are picking up things that we think we should be picking up, collaboratively, while taking into consideration developments that may have an impact on the junction.

"If something tangible comes out of it, we will look at doing a presentation as to what it is. Until then, watch this space."

Dartford east councillor Penny Cole (Con) further raised residents' concern over the "confusing" signage on the coastbound carriageway during the Dartford Joint Transportation Board meeting on Tuesday evening.

The remarks were echoed by Stone Parish Council vice chairman, Stephanie Thredgle, who said: "It is very, very confusing, and I know where I'm going.

"With more and more building going on in Stone, I think the signage has to be looked at.

"It needs more clarification because the Cotton Lane area is getting busier and busier, so I think its about time they did try and sort it out."

A spokesman for Kent County Council said: "Kent County Council has signed up to a memorandum of understanding with Dartford council and are working with Highways England which has responsibility for the A282 Junction 1a to identify and implement schemes, both short term and longer term, to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, as funding allows."

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