Access to a busy route has been reinstated after nearly seven weeks of gas works.

Motorists can now get to the Running Horse Roundabout via Sandling Lane in Maidstone again.

The closure was put in place on February 24 but was lifted on Wednesday (April 9).

It had been to make way for SGN works to upgrade old metal mains with new plastic pipes.

In the meantime, signed diversions had been put in place with drivers diverted via Boxley Road.

But access for residents and businesses was maintained.

Earlier this week, KentOnline reported how the works had run over schedule as ward councillor for the area, David Naghi, dubbed delays “chaos” following further emergency roadworks in the area.

The upgrades formed part of a 28-week-long project in Penenden Heath by SGN with rolling closures in place until the beginning of September.

Now the second phase has begun with Boxley Road at its junctions with Sandling Lane and Neville Close shut off.

The disruption is expected to last until April 25 according to traffic website, one.network.

After they have been completed, engineers will move onto Boxley Road’s junction with Penenden Heath Road and Rock Road until July 20.

The final phase will be on Penenden Heath Road between its junctions with Boxley Road and Sittingbourne Road from July 21 to September 1.

Speaking to KentOnline previously, SGN spokesman Dan Brown said: “We appreciate roadworks can be frustrating for road users, residents and businesses.

“However, this work is essential to keeping everyone in Maidstone safe and warm.

“The pipes here are reaching the end of their useful lives and it’s essential we replace them to ensure Maidstone homes and businesses continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.”