One lane of Detling Hill remains closed this morning following road repairs.

The left-hand lane of the southbound carriageway is shut between the Shell petrol station and Pilgrims Way, affecting traffic travelling from Sittingbourne and the M2 towards Maidstone and junction 7 of the M20.

It will remain closed into Friday morning, including rush-hour, while Kent County Council's (KCC) Highways department repairs two damaged drain covers.

Queues are reported as far back as Stockbury roundabout.

A Kent County Council spokesman said: “It has been necessary this afternoon to close lane one on the Maidstone-bound section of Detling Hill from the Shell garage to Detling village.

“This is because of the failure of two drain covers. The defect was identified as a result of our monthly inspections."

“The lane one closure will be maintained throughout Friday morning, including rush hour, to allow full curing of the material without vehicles going over it.

“We appreciate this will cause disruption for drivers and we apologise for any delays caused by these essential repairs.”

In order to make the repairs, there was a full closure of Detling Hill Maidstone-bound overnight on Wednesday and Thursday.