Motorists in Tunbridge Wells are facing four months of congestion as engineers move in to replace a pipe which has burst five times in the past 16 years.

South East Water will spend some £155,000 bringing the old pipe in Kingswood Road, which has also led to some customers experiencing discoloured water, up to scratch.

However, the works, which begin on Monday, January 22, will see the road closed for four months between Bayhall Road and Pembury Road.

Bosses say access to homes, businesses and the Nuffield Health Hospital will be maintained at all times and the diversion route, which has been agreed with Kent County Council’s Highways department, will be clearly signposted.

Jeremy Dufour, project manager at South East Water, said: “This work is essential to keep clean, fresh tap water flowing to people’s taps because when our pipes burst supplies to the town are interrupted and motorists are disrupted while repairs take place.

“Our team will work as quickly and as safely as they can, keeping any disruption to any absolute minimum.

“Safety is our number one priority so Kingswood Road will be closed in sections as we carry out this important work.

“We understand short term road works are a pain but know the long term benefits we can bring to the area by upgrading the water supply network will be felt for many years to come.”

Further information and updates can be found at corporate.southeastwater.co.uk/Kingswoodroad.