Gas works have brought Gravesend to a standstill - and traffic chaos is expected to last for weeks.

People on their way to work and on the school run have been hitting congestion around Wrotham Road and the surrounding area.

The delays are caused by a six month project to replace 3km of metallic gas pipes.

Southern Gas Network is more than half way through the project having already carried out works in Woodfield Avenue.

It will be spending more than a month replacing 300m of piping in Wrotham Road.

The works have caused serious delays during rush hour, following a lane closure.

Traffic coming into Gravesend via Wrotham Road is being diverted along New House Lane and Dashwood Road.

However heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) are being diverted along Coldharbour Road, Hall Road, Springhead Road, Thames Way and London Road.

A Southern Gas Networks spokesman said: "We do appreciate the inconvenience that this may cause to some people and we do appreciate their patience. But this will provide a safe and reliable service in the area.

"The new pipes can last for up to 80 years if left undisturbed. It is a major investment in the area."

Works are due to be completed by Friday, February 20.