A major A-road linking two Kent towns is to shut for nearly two months in a move likely to bring travel chaos.

A section of the A251 connecting Ashford and Faversham is to close for gas works this summer.

The stretch will be out-of-bounds for more than three miles from Junction 6 of the M2 slip road in Faversham to Dayton Road in Badlesmere Lees.

Work will begin on August 5 and is expected to last between seven and eight weeks.

The closure is in place so company SGN can upgrade the road's gas pipe, which, once replaced, will last for eight decades.

It means drivers will face a 21-mile diversion between Canterbury along the A252.

A spokesperson for SGN said: "This is part of our 30-year programme of work to replace our old mains reaching the end of their useful lives, with new, reliable plastic pipe.

"Our contractor, I&G Contracting, who is completing this project on our behalf, plans to start work in the week beginning August 5.

"As part of the project, we'll also be replacing the old metal pipes along Lees Court Road from the junction with Ashford Road to outside number 4.

"In close consultation with Kent County Council (KCC), and to ensure everyone's safety, we've applied for a traffic order to close Ashford Road and Lees Court Road around our work site for the duration of the project.

"This is needed as we'll have excavations open while we work which will not leave enough space for vehicles to pass by safely.

"We'll be operating a rolling closure point which will move with us as our work progresses."

The closure will mean those travelling between Faversham and Ashford will have to be diverted via Canterbury and the A252 in Challock.

Meanwhile, parents of tots attending Sheldwich Primary School in Lees Court Road will also be impacted.

SGN added: "We recognise closing the road here will have a significant impact on the local community.

"To reduce disruption as much as possible, we'll be working extended hours and have planned to complete most of the work during the school summer holidays.

"We understand roadworks can be frustrating, however the new plastic pipe has a lifespan of 80 years.

"This means once our work is done, Sheldwich residents and businesses will be able to enjoy the benefits of a safe and reliable supply of gas for many years to come."

SGN insists signed diversions will be in place for motorists when the road shuts.

It says access for residents and businesses will be maintained where it is safe to do.