After heavy snowfall overnight, Kent Police is advising motorists not to travel today unless their journey is absolutely essential (Sunday 5 February).

Kent Police along with a number of agencies have been working throughout the night to ensure people reach their destination as quickly as possible today.

Most of the major routes are currently passable although an number of the rural and minor roads still have a lot of snow on the ground. Driving condition are extremely difficult in many places so anyone needing to travel is advised to take extra care and allow plenty of extra time for their journey.

Current situation on the major roads and ports:

M25 - all lanes open and running including the Dartford Crossing
M20 - passable with care
M26 - all lanes open again
M2 - passable with care
The Sheppey Bridge is open and passable with care
A249 Detling Hill - passable with care
A229 Bluebell Hill - passable with care
A299 Thanet Way - passable with care but drifting snow is causing driving problems
Boxley Hill in Maidstone has now re-opened and is passable with care
A274 near Langley - the fallen tree has been cleared and all lanes open
A254 - Ramsgate Road, Margate - passable with care.
Vicarage Lane in Elham is closed in both directions due to ice
Ongoing signal problems at the level crossing in Chilham have caused the barriers to stay down so please avoid the area if you can or expect delays
The main roads into and out of Dover - A20 and Jubilee Way - are passable with care
People using the Port of Dover are advised to check with their ferry operator before travelling and allow extra time for their journey to the Port.
Eurotunnel and ferry operators are operating a full service at this time.

Travelling in France

Due to the weather conditions in France, the French authorities have imposed some vehicle restrictions. HGVs/freight vehicles over 7.5 tonnes and coaches cannot use the A16 and A216 and are being asked to use an alternative route on A26. There are no restrictions on cars.

Train services

All train routes are now open but subject to possible delays. Please check with your rail operator before travelling.

Bus services
There is a limited bus service across the county at this time but the bus operators expect to run more buses as the road conditions improve. Please check with your bus company before travelling.

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012