The eight-month closure of Newtown Road in Ashford is set to be lifted in November on schedule.

Drivers have faced months of traffic hell after contractors shut the stretch for 32 weeks as part of the £90 million expansion of the Designer Outlet.

Bosses have removed two roundabouts and are installing traffic lights at the junction with Romney Marsh Road, but say the road is on schedule to open in late November.

At the time of the closure, transport chiefs at Ashford Borough Council said they did not know Newtown Road would be closed for eight months until reading about it in KentOnline's sister title the Kentish Express.

Cllr David Smith, who represents South Willesborough, says the works are a necessary evil.

"The main problem I have had with the scheme is the way it came about," he said.

"Unfortunately there was no warning to local residents about the 32-week closure.

"But the works need doing and I think in the long run they will benefit our accessibility - the traffic lights will break up the traffic so people can cross the road."

Designer Outlet centre manager Peter Corr says the works are on track.

He said: "The works to improve the local roads and pedestrian walkways surrounding the centre are progressing in line with the construction schedule set out by our partners, McLaren and Walkers Construction, and are due to complete in late November 2018 as planned.

"Once complete, the improvements will make it easier and safer for people to move between Ashford International station, Ashford town centre and the Designer Outlet."