A Kent MP has warned drivers over traffic delays caused by gas repairs along a busy stretch of road.

Tracey Crouch posted a message on social media to her constituents about the roadworks on Blue Bell Hill.

SGN has been carrying out the emergency repairs for more than two weeks.

Two lanes of three on the Chatham-bound A229 have been closed since Sunday, November 6.

There is also no access to the A229 from Chatham Road.

The gas company has now confirmed it will take another six weeks to complete the roadworks, finishing around Monday, January 2.

Motorists are continuing to face delays and long queues – some tailing back to the bottom of the hill during rush hour.

The Conservative MP for Chatham and Aylesford updated residents in a Facebook post on Monday.

She shared a message from SGN, which read: "Due to the condition of this metal gas main, we need to replace a 180m-section with modern plastic pipe.

"This work will prevent future disruptive repairs and ensure nearby residents and businesses continue to receive a safe and reliable supply of gas."

It went on to say: "We’ve installed additional signage in the area, raising awareness of the lane closures and access restrictions for affected motorists.

"All our work has been agreed in close consultation with Kent County Council. We’ll be continuing to liaise with the local authority to ensure we’re minimising disruption, while maintaining everyone’s safety as we carry out this essential work.

"We understand this is a sensitive route and recommend allowing extra time for your journey during our work.

"Specialist equipment and the latest technology has been delivered to site, plus we’re working 24 hours a day, seven days a week, enabling us to complete our project as soon as possible.

"Last week, we made good progress in replacing the affected medium pressure main with plastic pipe. However, we expect our work to take another six weeks to complete.

"We recognise that roadworks can be frustrating. However, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years.

'I use Bluebell Hill every day and last week there was numerous times when no one was there...'

"This means that once this essential work is finished, Kent residents and businesses will be able to enjoy the benefits of a safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come."

A number of people have commented on the MP's post, with some criticising a perceived lack of action from engineers working on the road.

Claire Mackley said: "Working 24/7? They were not working Sunday morning and lunchtime when I ran out and back passing the section they are supposed to be working on!"

Jonathan Black added: "A man sat in his van at 7.20am this morning doesn’t constitute working 24/7.

"I use Blue Bell Hill every day and last week there was numerous times when no one was there."

John ML commented: "Except their 24/7 working consists of a man in a van stopping people driving up the old Chatham road at night.

"So those that know are diverting up through Warren Road, or Mickey's Diner as there is no signage to say there is a closed road until you get there.

"What about a sign before you get to the village saying no access to Blue Bell Hill and not relying on a Facebook post."

Ms Crouch replied: "As someone who totally forgot on Saturday and went up Rochester Road only to then have to go back down to the running horse to loop back up to get to Chatham...I totally agree!"

However, there is some relief for drivers, with the emergency gas repairs in College Road and Knightrider Street in Maidstone having been completed.

Both roads were partially shut this week while SGN carried out works – with a nursery nearby being advised to close for the day due to a potential gas leak.