Fog detectors for dangerous A20

The A20 near Dover has its own micro-climate

Dangerous sections of the A20 in Kent are getting fog detectors to give early warning of poor visibility to drivers.

The work will be carried out where 21 people were injured last May when dense fog contributed to a series of accidents involving 50 vehicles.

Four detectors will be installed near the Western Heights roundabout on the Dover-bound carriageway and near the Roundhill tunnel towards Folkestone.

The eight-week installation will not be carried out during rush hours.

Three people were killed and 22 were injured on the stretch of road between September 2004 and September 2005.

The detectors will be the first in the UK and will operate by sensing moisture in the air which then triggers a flashing sign to alert drivers to poor visibility.

A spokesman for the Highways Agency South East said:"The area has been identified as having its own micro-climate because of its proximity to the sea".

The scheme will cost £238,000.