Drivers are facing delays after a burst water main has caused an emergency lane closure.

One lane of Loose Road, Maidstone, has been shut while repairs begin, near the Park Way junction.

At around 7pm this evening the southbound carriageway, heading out of the town centre, will be closed until South East Water have completed the work.

A diversion route via the A249 Wat Tyler Way, A20 Ashford Road, Willington Street and A247 Sutton Road has been put in place.

Motorists have been advised to expect delays in the surrounding areas and to allow extra travelling time.

Owner of The Wheatsheaf pub in Loose Road, Rossa Kenny, said: " Traffic is flowing okay now.

"I came up at about 2.30pm and it was absolute chaos but it seems to be clearing now."

He also said a 'machine' had been dropped off, which is thought to be equipment to start the repairs.

Mark Rice a distribution manager for South East Water said: “We are sorry to customers in Loose who may be experiencing low pressure or no water this afternoon caused by a burst water main on Loose Road.

“Bottled water is available by the footpaths at the crossroads at Armstrong Road and Parkway, and the junction of Loose Road and Plains Avenue.

“We will be working quickly and safely through the night to restore supplies to customers’ homes and businesses.

“Please visit our website for live updates on our progress, bottled water locations for the duration of the repair, and to sign up for text alerts through our interactive In Your Area map."

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone