A key town road is to shut for up to six weeks so a collapsed sewer can be repaired.

The B2205 Canterbury Road in Herne Bay will close from Monday, and is likely to bring major disruptions.

The road will be shut from its junction with Kings Road to Herne Bay High Street and Beltinge Road - a stretch of about a quarter-of-a-mile.

KCC Highways says: "This emergency road closure is necessary to enable Southern Water to repair a collapsed sewer.

"Kent County Council have requested that Southern Water work extended hours including weekends."

The authority adds that it "understands the impact" the closure of one of the main roads into the town will have upon traffic.

It says it will conduct regular site inspections, and receive "continuous updates from the site supervisor to ascertain progression of the works and ensure that everything is in place to complete these without delay."

It adds: "It is hoped that the works are completed...before the warmer weather arrives and visitor numbers increase to the area.

"We appreciate the patience of the community while these works are being carried out.

"Any questions or comments should be made directly to Southern Water."