There is a road closure on a major route into the county town this morning.

The A26 Tonbridge Road is closed at Teston, just outside Maidstone, due to a gas leak.

SGN engineers are on the scene. KCC Highways is urging drivers to find alternatve routes.

The closure is near the junction with Teston Lane.

The road is currently closed in both directions and an initial assessment of the problem suggests repairs may take until May 16.

Bradley Barlow, a spkesman for SGN said: “We’re carrying out urgent repairs to our gas network in A26 Tonbridge Road, Teston.

“For everyone’s safety, we’ve temporarily closed the A26 Tonbridge Road near its junction with Teston Lane. Signed diversions are in place for road users.

“It is too soon to say how long our repairs will take, but our current work permit is in place until Tuesday, May 16.”