Roadworks which were expected to close West Malling high street for three weeks have finished ahead of schedule.

The £226,000 scheme involved replacing old, metal gas mains with new plastic pipes, in a bid to make the town’s gas supply more reliable.

Contractors were digging up High Street and Swan Street in two phases, starting on Monday, July 27. But yesterday gas distribution company SGN announced it had finished - 11 days early.

Chloe Boyce, a spokeswoman for SGN, said: “We finished our essential work in West Malling ahead of schedule. Things progressed more easily than expected. We also worked slightly extended hours to complete the upgrade.”

Traders had reported a drop in trade after the roadworks were announced, and artisan confectioners The Chocolate Umbrella had even taken the decision to close while the road was being dug up, due to health and safety concerns.

Assistant manager of The Swan Street Cafe, Callum Meguinness, said: “Everyone is really pleased it is over.

"They were very tidy and very quick doing the works and although we were still quite busy while they were going on, trade has definitely picked up since.

“We just want to say well done to the gas company.”

SGN is still carrying out a five-week programme of works in East Malling High Street, due to end by Tuesday, September 1.