Lorries are being parked dangerously along a hard shoulder since a much-used pit stop was closed for cleaning.

A parking area for up to 30 spaces off the A2 near Nell’s Cafe, Gravesend, has been closed since March 24.

The unofficial lorry park does not have washing or toilet facilities and, as a result, the area has become rancid.

The site is owned by Highways England but work on it has been delayed and in the meantime an increasing number of truckers are taking to stopping along the hard shoulder on the A2.

A number of witnesses have reported seeing them pull straight out onto the four-lane carriageway at very low speeds, and causing an obstruction to the inside lane.

Their presence has been reported to police and on March 30, 20 lorries were moved on from the coastbound carriageway.

Lorry drivers parking up on the A2 hard shoulder near Nell’s Cafe on the coastbound carriageway and the Esso petrol station on the London-bound section is an on-going problem, but is getting worse now the pit stop has closed.

There is no official end date to the cleaning work. It was due to be carried out around the same time as other maintenance along the same stretch of road, but has been put back because of the extremity of the filth.

A Highways spokesman said they were having to get contractors in because the mess, which includes human waste, rats, and oil, needs specialist cleaning.

“We do not have enforcement powers but are working with police to make sure people using this hard shoulder are doing so for the right reasons.

“If not, they are being asked to move on.”

Police have been seen moving drivers on during other occasions, but others soon pull up in their place.

A police spokeswoman added: “Parking on the hard shoulder is unlawful and Kent police officers are working in partnership with Highways England to regularly move on vehicles when it is safe and appropriate to do so.

“Kent police are also committed to educating motorists about the dangers associated with parking on the hard shoulder.

“The wider issue of lorry drivers having appropriate locations to stop and rest is a matter for local authorities.”

HGV drivers are being advised to use services 12 miles away in Medway or in Thurrock, Essex.

A similar situation reared its head last year and Kent police slapped fines on those parked up overnight in that area illegally. Some vehicles were impounded until the penalty notices were paid.