EMERGENCY sewer works on one of the busiest routes into Canterbury could cause traffic chaos for the next three weeks.

Traders in the city fear a huge loss of business as motorists battle to cope with diversions that start on Monday.

Work on the collapsed pipe in St George's Place will take place 24-hours a day. It estimated to take three weeks and both lanes into the city between New Dover Road and the ring road will be closed.

Thomas Jellum, managing director for Netto, said: "There will be a decrease in turnover and a lot of unsatisfied customers. It's a big problem."

A spokesman for Southern Water said: "We apologise for any disruption while the emergency repairs are being carried out but this work is essential."