The M2 will remain closed until at least midday for “extensive” accident investigation work after a pedestrian was hit by a lorry.

The coast-bound carriageway has been shut between junction 5 for Sittingbourne and junction 6 for Faversham since about 8.10pm last night (Wednesday) after the serious collision.

Emergency services have been working throughout the night, and remain at the scene.

A police spokesman said: “Drivers are warned of significant delays on the M2 following a serious collision involving a pedestrian on the coastbound carriageway.

“The collision happened near Stockbury and Faversham. Police and other emergency services are at the scene and the coastbound carriageway is expected to remain closed for several hours.

“Motorists are advised to plan alternative routes and are urged to check for travel updates on the Highways website.”

One lane London-bound is also closed, leading to congestion for over a mile around junction 6 for Faversham.

Drivers were stuck in the closure in sub-zero temperatures for several hours in the aftermath of the incident.

Traffic was eventually released from the rear of the queue, with all trapped traffic released by 2am.

A post on social media by National Highways said the motorway had been shut “due to a serious collision between a lorry and a pedestrian.”

They added: “Police are currently at the scene leading the response to this collision alongside South East Coast Ambulance Service and National Highways Traffic Officers.”

Motorists are advised to allow extra time for the journey and to take the following diversion:

Exit the M2 eastbound at junction 5 and take the third exit at the roundabout onto the A249 southbound towards Maidstone.

Travel southbound on the A249 for approximately five miles to reach M20 junction 7 and take the first exit at the roundabout onto the M20 eastbound.

Leave the M20 eastbound at J8 and take the third exit at the roundabout, followed by the first exit at the next roundabout to join the A20 eastbound towards Lenham.

Continue on the A20 for approximately nine miles, passing through Harrietsham and Lenham, to reach the roundabout with the A252 at Charing.

Take the first exit at the roundabout onto the A252 eastbound towards Challock.

Remain on the A252 to the next roundabout (with the A251) and take the first exit onto the A251 northbound towards Faversham. Continue on the A251 northbound for approximately six miles and re-join the M2 at junction 6.

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