THE QEII bridge is set to reopen later tonight after protesters who scaled the bridge were removed by Essex Police earlier today.

The bridge was closed for two days after two JustStopOil protesters scaled its tower suspension cables. They have now been arrested after being brought down via a huge 'cherry picker' brought to the bridge by police.

Following their removal National Highways carried out inspections on the bridge to ensure no damage was caused during the protest. On completion of the inspections and the bridge deemed safe, the road will reopen.

Sean Martell, National Highways' Head of Service Delivery for Operations in the South East, said:  "Our primary concern has always been safety. Protesting on the strategic road network is extremely dangerous, both for the protesters themselves and for motorists, and it was not safe to reopen the Crossing while the protesters were still at height.  

"The two protesters have now been removed and arrested by Essex Police. We are working to get the bridge reopen as soon as it is safe to do so." 

National Highways provides live traffic information via its website, local and national radio travel bulletins, electronic road signs and mobile apps. Local Twitter services are also available at @HighwaysSEAST.