THE experimental closure of a notorious lay-by used as a meeting point by people seeking casual sex is being supported by councillors.

Kent County Council decided in January to close the A249 lay-by at Stockbury, near Maidstone, which the Kent Messenger revealed last summer had become a haunt for perverts seeking outdoor sex and voyeurs wanting to watch them - a practice known as "dogging".

But the closure was put on hold after some members of the Maidstone Joint Transportation Board objected they had not been consulted over the decision.

The closure was discussed at the latest meeting of the board when members agreed to support the shutdown proposal for an experimental six-month period.

This was despite concerns raised by some councillors over the impact the closure could have on lorry drivers needing to use the lay-by for toilet and refreshment breaks.

Board chairman and Maidstone borough councillor Malcolm Robertson (Lib Dem) said: "Nefarious activities have gone on in this lay-by for many years. It would be very disappointing if this lay-by is taken out of use for the general travelling public."

Kent county councillor Paul Carter (Con) disagreed. He said: "There is an eerie, unpleasant feel about this lay-by and the sooner it's closed the better."

Both the Road Haulage Association and the Freight Transport Association have expressed concern about the closure, saying they are worried about the lack of facilities for lorry drivers.

The operator of a mobile tea bar located in the lay-by also collected 584 signatures last year objecting to KCC's closure plans.

The six-month experimental closure will enable KCC officers to determine the impact it has on lorry drivers and motorists.

Cllr Richard King (Con), the KCC cabinet member for environment and transport is now expected to give the go-ahead for the experimental closure.