Drivers have been facing lengthy delays after a major route was shut forcing traffic to grind to halt.

South East Water was forced to close the A257 at St Martin’s Hill, Canterbury, over the weekend severely impacting Monday morning rush hour traffic.

All cars coming into the city along Littlebourne Road are currently being diverted along Warwick Road and through the Spring Lane estate.

Images show traffic snarled up in the residential area as numerous vehicles attempted to reach New Dover Road earlier today.

The road closure is currently earmarked to be in place until Tuesday evening.

Adam Newbury, distribution manager for South East Water, said: “We are sorry to residents and the community for the disruption caused by the emergency road closure on St Martin’s Hill, Canterbury.

“To ensure the safety of the public and our team, we needed to close the road to repair a burst main, which was close to the central white line on the road.

“We’re pleased to say the main has been repaired and we’re working to restore the road to its original condition.

“We are sorry for the disruption caused by the diversion, agreed with Kent Highways, but we are aiming for St Martin’s Hill to be reopened by the end of the day tomorrow (Tuesday 24 September).”