National Highways is undertaking overnight waterproofing works in the east tunnel of the Dartford Crossing.

This work is expected to continue until September 2023 and is significant because it involves work in the larger of the two tunnels, which means some HGVs will not be able to cross the Thames at that point during the closures.

National Highways explains that waterproofing keeps the tunnels safe and means water can drain away, reducing the risk of water damage and closures for emergency repairs.

The work involves breaking out sections of the carriageway and applying a new layer underneath, then reinstating the road surface and road markings before reopening the tunnel each morning.

This involves closures on Sunday-Friday nights, with routine maintenance on the other, slightly smaller, tunnel on Saturdays.

(Picture – Gov.uk)