An air ambulance has been called to a crash forcing a stretch of the A2 to close.

The road was shut in both directions from A227 Wrotham Road in Gravesend to the M2 Halfpence Lane, Coham to allow for the ambulance to land on the London-bound carriageway.

Officers are at the scene after they were called around 4.15pm following what police are calling “a serious collision” on the coastbound side.

It has been reported that a lorry and a van were involved in the crash with one of the vehicles catching fire.

The London-bound side has since reopened but the coastbound carriageway remains closed.

Motorists are now being advised to expect delays and find alternative routes if possible.

Traffic is building back to Bean in the coastbound direction.

Congestion is also on the roads around Higham, Gravesend and Greenhithe.

National Highways has issued advice for drivers and a diversion route via solid circle signs.

Drivers should exit the A2 at Marling Cross into the coastbound lane of Heaver Court Road via a roundabout at the top of the exit slip.

After a short distance at the junction turn into Valley Drive and travel towards the junction with the B261 Old Road East.

At this junction turn east onto the B261 and travel towards The Lion roundabout.

This roundabout forms a junction with the A226. Drivers can then continue on the A226 eastbound towards Rochester and the junction with the A289.

At this junction motorway traffic can go onto the A289 towards the M2.

The emergency services have been asked for further information.