by Alan Smith
ajsmith@thekmgroup.co.uk

Once again, fears of town centre gridlock in Maidstone have failed to materialise.
Although traffic increased last week as the new school term started, the closure of Knightrider Street for the start of a 50-week programme of gas main repairs has not generated the expected level of congestion.
Many motorists have undoubtedly heeded warnings of hold-ups and found alternative routes.
Laura Varney, spokesman for Southern Gas Networks, which is carrying out the work, said: “We are not aware of any traffic problems and the work is on schedule. The pipes we are replacing are our priority and the project will deliver a safe and reliable gas supply for the future.”
Town centre manager Bill Moss added: “It’s been perfect. In fact you could argue there has been less congestion than usual. Of course the worst is yet to come, when SGN moves on to Lower Stone Street.”
The timing of traffic lights has been adjusted to improve the flow of traffic and a temporary management system has been set up at Sheals Crescent to minimise delays.

For the full story, see this week's Kent Messenger, out now.