It is feared that work to fix a deep hole on the M2 between Faversham and Sittingbourne could lead to a 24-hour closure of the motorway, effecting traffic flow to and from the Port of Dover.

The opening is said to be 49ft deep and measures 16ft by 7ft.

The port has said: "The Port of Dover advises all customers that the M2 is closed between junctions J5 and J6 in both directions. A local diversion is in place via A251."

Motorists are to expect delays while the pothole is repaired.

The advised diversion suggests the following:

• M2 London bound diversion via A251 Ashford Road, A252 Canterbury Road, A20 Ashford Road, M20 & A249.
• M2 Coast bound Diversion via A249, M20, A20 Ashford Road A252 Canterbury Road , A251 Ashford Road.
• There is a lane closure on the A249 southbound which may cause delays on the diversion route.
• Traffic heading to the port of Dover is advised to use the M20.