Gridlock hell in a city is set to continue until at least next week.

Gas firm SGN closed the A28 Wincheap in Canterbury at 2pm last Tuesday to repair the network which became damaged this month.

Residents say the major route’s closure is causing “absolute carnage” with an ambulance among the vehicles stuck in standstill traffic.

Side roads have become gridlocked as motorists try to find a way in and out of Canterbury after the A28 at Wincheap was shut.

But drivers using major routes have also faced huge delays in the city this week.

In a statement today, SGN spokesman Bradley Barlow said: “We are continuing emergency repairs to our gas network in the A28 Wincheap in Canterbury.

“Our work is progressing well and we hope to complete our repairs by the weekend. All being well, we aim to reopen the road in the week commencing, Monday, November 6.

“Due to operational difficulties, including the size and number of excavations required, we temporarily closed Wincheap both ways for everyone’s safety.

“Significant signed diversion routes are in place for motorists and we would advise motorists to avoid travelling if possible, or leave extra time for their journey.

“We have also temporarily closed Simmonds Road, Gordon Road and Tudor Road at their junctions with Wincheap.

“To complete our work as quickly as possible, we’ll continue to work extended hours every day from 7.30am to 11pm.

“We are sorry for any disruption our work may be causing to the local community and would like to thank them for their patience while we complete these urgent repairs.”

The work is being carried out at the junction with Simmonds Road, which has been closed at its junction with the A28.

Kent Highways has warned those travelling in the area to expect delays.