A section of the Pilgrim's Way is being closed to vehicles

Maidstone Borough Council obtained the closure in the Boxley Warren area, after a public inquiry.

Councillor Tony Harwood said gates would be installed to let in cyclists, horse riders, walkers and horse-drawn vehicles, but stop motorised transport.

The North Downs chalk escarpment area includes yew and box woodland, chalk scrub and chalk grassland.

Burnt-out vehicles

Phil Williams, a conservation officer for English Nature, said the problems were caused by drivers of four-wheel drive vehicles enjoying themselves on the slope, and also bikers.

"It causes horrendous problems to the chalk grassland and obviously direct damage, noise disturbance, pollution, and burnt-out vehicles and tyres," he said.

Nick Johannsen, director of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, said the inspector's ruling should be welcomed.

The ancient route is part of an area of outstanding natural beauty

He said it was a shame some users had been excluded because of the "irresponsible" behaviour of others.

Vehicles still allowed on to the ancient route between White Horse Stone in the west and the junction with Lidsing Road in the east include emergency services, landowners, horse-drawn vehicles and mobility scooters.

During the public inquiry, an inspector heard evidence from Maidstone Council, Boxley Parish Council, English Nature, Kent County Council and the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.