Sandwich MP Craig Mackinlay said “this simply cannot happen again” after a lorry became stuck in the town last week.

He is calling on Kent County Council to provide better signage on access roads to the town to inform HGV drivers that they must use the bypass, rather than making unnecessary trips through the medieval town.

Last Tuesday, a double articulated lorry became stuck at Breezy Corner, near Strand Street, and caused delays to traffic, including five Stagecoach buses. Vehicles were at a standstill for three hours.

Police and residents eventually managed to guide the lorry out. It turned round in the Gazen Salts car park and was able to exit the town.

Mr Mackinlay said: “Following the three hours of traffic chaos in Sandwich on June 16, which prevented bus and private journeys, and also stopped business and tourism, it is clear that slow progress is being made on solving Sandwich’s traffic problems.

“I can only guess that the reason this articulated lorry even attempted to traverse Sandwich is because of sat-nav failures.

“Many lorries use inappropriate car units, rather than units designed for lorries.

“Appropriate sat-nav or not, clear signage may have prevented this event, and I shall push KCC Highways once more for appropriate signage on Sandwich entry roads as this simply cannot happen again.”

On Friday, July 17, Mr Mackinlay will host another traffic summit for relevant stakeholders at the Guildhall, Cattle Market.

Key concerns were raised earlier in the year, including HGV traffic, double decker buses, lack of tourist coach facilities and traffic safety.

Speaking last week, district and town councillor MJ Holloway said: “Residents were on their doorsteps in fear over their homes and safety. No other historic town in Kent is subject to this appalling risk and danger”.