Stockbury
The interchange between M2 and the A249 at Junction 5. Credit: Crown copyright.

Highways England has released latest proposals for easing traffic at the Stockbury roundabout where the M2 meets the A249 near Sittingbourne in Kent.

Under the new proposal, the Stockbury roundabout will be replaced with a free-flowing junction. This proposal will enable drivers to continue their journeys non-stop on the M2 and the A249.

It will also provide a new bigger roundabout for drivers who intend to change roads at the junction.

Highways England project manager Camelia Lichtl said: “Having announced our preferred options for this important investment last year this is now a further opportunity for everyone to help us shape the detail of the individual scheme before we submit firm and final proposals to the planning authorities.

“The improvements form part of the current £15bn government investment in motorways and major A roads and are a vital element of Highways England’s support to unlock the potential for new homes and jobs by tackling congestion.”

The new scheme includes a flyover, two new free-flowing slip roads. One of these will turn left for traffic from the Maidstone-bound A249 to the M2, while the other will turn left from the Sheppey-bound A249 to the M2.

In addition, a new single-lane slip road from the M2 eastbound to the A249 northbound will be built to avoid the Stockbury roundabout.

The M2 is an important route, connecting London with Rochester and Faversham with the Port of Dover.

Currently, the interchange between the M2 and the A249 at junction 5 witnesses heavy congestion as it is used by tens of thousands of vehicles. With the proposed improvements, Highways England aims to make the travel easy for motorists.

Statutory consultation on the improved proposal launched on 13 June. The final date for receipt of all comments or objections is 25 July.