A “dangerous” manhole cover is causing delays for drivers in a town centre.

One lane in both directions on the A229 Loose Road in Maidstone has been closed since yesterday afternoon.

One driver says the lane closures have been causing problems during peak times, especially around 8am and 6pm. There are reports of slow queues and delays of up to 15 minutes.

The manhole cover appeared to be cracked and had a chunk missing. It also looked to have sunk further into the road.

“Traffic was tailing back all the way to Upper Stone Street when I was trying to get through town,” the motorist added.

“The road is already busy enough as it is – this is making it worse. I hope it is fixed soon.”

This morning, KCC Highways warned motorists via a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“Lane two of two is closed in both directions between Park Way and Plains Avenue to enable emergency repairs to a dangerous manhole cover by Southern Water,” it said.

It is understood the repairs will be completed by the end of the day.

A spokesman from Southern Water said: “Our teams repaired a manhole cover in Loose Road, Maidstone.

“We’re sorry for any disruption this has caused residents, businesses and commuters in the area.

“We will be clearing our traffic management and will be off-site this afternoon.”