M20 between Junction 8 (Hollingbourne) and Junction 9 (Ashford) reopens after multi-vehicle crash
The southbound carriageway of a motorway has reopened after a multi-vehicle crash with a van on its side. Emergency services attended the M20 between Junction 8 (Hollingbourne) and Junction 9 (Ashford) after just before 4pm today (April 19).
Kent Highways said the collision was serious and the road was shut between the junctions to allow the police to work at the scene. The police were called to reports a van had overturned on the coastbound carriageway and patrols, highways officers, fire crews and paramedics attended the scene where three people were treated for injuries.
The police said the casualties were taken to a local hospital for further medical attention. It is understood that the injuries are not described as life-threatening. The fire service said it was called to a vehicle on its side on the M20 and three fire engines attended.
Crews released one person who was handed into the care of paramedics and the air ambulance.
The fire service left the scene just after 5pm. In an update just before 7pm, National Highways said the road had reopened. A spokesperson said: "There are no delays on approach.
Road reopened. Thank you for your patience." The Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex also attended, according to Flight Radar.
Separately, the A20 Maidstone Road, which was the official diversion route, shut because of a separate incident in Hothfield near Ashford. The police and paramedics were called to the road at 5.08pm to a crash involving three vehicles, and one person was taken to a local hospital for medical attention. It is understood the injuries are not described as life-threatening.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to a three-vehicle crash in Maidstone Road and two fire engines attended.
A spokesperson said: "Crews released two people who were handed into the care of paramedics.
Kent Police also attended."
The police have been contacted for more information.