Drivers struggling with the eight-week closure of one arm of a busy crossroads on a key junction in the approach to Maidstone from the south had a further challenge this morning.

As part of their plan to improve the junctions of Armstrong Road and Park Way with the A229 Loose Road, KCC contractors also closed one lane of the A229 itself, just south of the junction.

KCC said that Park Way would be closed back to Holtye Crescent for a full eight weeks, and that Armstrong Road opposite would be closed from time-to-time during that same period.

Park Way is a popular route for traffic coming from the south of Maidstone to reach Mote Park, the Maidstone Leisure Centre and Maidstone Grammar School and there has been increased pressure on other roads as a result.

Similarly, Armstrong Road forms part of the route for traffic coming from Tonbridge Road and the East Farleigh area, wishing to head towards Staplehurst, while avoiding the town centre.

KCC has a helpline for queries. Call 03000 418181.