Part of the M20 will be closed for a slow-moving “abnormal load” to be transported.

National Highways have warned drivers that a large piece of equipment will be travelling from the Port of Dover to Sellindge tonight.

The piece of equipment – belonging to National Grid – weighs more than 330 tonnes and is over 86 metres long.

As a result, several roads will be blocked with police being deployed to escort the load and temporarily hold traffic.

There will be disruption on both the M20 and A20:

The vehicles are expected to leave Dover port at around 11pm and make their way to join the A20 London-bound at Court Wood interchange, before joining the M20 and travelling to Junction 10a.

The convoy will use the M20 London-bound until Junction 11, then move onto the coastbound carriageway before leaving using the coastbound entry slip at Junction 10a.

The M20 coastbound between Junctions 10 and 11 will be fully closed while the convoy is on the carriageway.

A diversion is in place via the A2070 and A259 to Junction 11.

Police may hold traffic on the London-bound carriageway, with a lane closure between Junction 11 and 10a – where the convoy will cross the central reservation.

The M20 will fully reopen at around 2am, however motorists are being warned that all timings are subject to change depending on progress.

National Grid say the equipment is essential and will allow them to provide energy to homes and businesses.