The eastbound M26 in Kent has resumed operations following a lorry fire that led to its closure for approximately five hours. National Highways confirmed the reopening of the carriageway shortly after 15:00 GMT, though it noted 12 miles (19km) of traffic congestion remained on the approach. The road had been inaccessible between the M25 junction five at Chipstead and junction two A near Wrotham Heath. Kent Fire and Rescue Service verified that four fire engines and a bulk water carrier had been dispatched. Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported that an earlier lane closure on the M25 was adding to the existing queues. Motorists are still being advised to allocate extra journey time and to plan their travel ahead. Post navigation Queen Victoria’s Scottish Picnic Cottage Undergoes Restoration Completion of £2.6 Million Station Upgrades Hailed as ‘Significant Milestone’