Workmen have started knock down a long brick wall on a busy main road in Ashford today in the run up to Christmas.

Work to remove and replace the 'leaning' wall on Somerset Road, which separates pedestrians and drivers, begun this morning.

The footpath next to the wall has been closed in order for the work to take place, where the wall will fall as it is knocked down and will be built back up from the pedestrian side.

Kent County Council workers have set up traffic management cones, part-closing the lane next to the wall on Somerset Road today to complete the initial knockdown.

It is believed that the work may take three weeks to complete overall.

Somerset Road is used by hundreds of commuters and motorists daily. Traffic delays may occur.

A KCC spokesperson said: “The wall suffered impact by an unknown vehicle.

“Upon inspection the wall was found to be leaning considerably towards the path.

“The wall was taken down yesterday to just below the line of failure, to remove the potential hazard.

“It is now being rebuilt, but to a lower height of approx. 300mm above the road level, with a line of pedestrian guardrail installed directly in front of the wall.

“These urgent works are being carried out under a temporary lane closure, necessary for the safety of all concerned, both the workforce and the travelling public, and will be completed as soon as possible.”