A main road out of a village has been closed for a second time due to subsidence because of work at a nearby housing estate.

Bells Lane in Hoo was closed on Wednesday after housing developer, Bellway carried out work in the area where they are building the new estate.

The new estate is being built on the former BAE Systems Sports and Social Club site.

As a result of the subsidence, Medway Council had to close the road until Bellway can carry out repairs.

It is not the first time the road has had to be closed in recent months.

In March roadworks in the road were dubbed a 'death-trap' by residents in the village.

The road was partially closed to allow repair work to be completed and was thought to have been caused by the construction work going on in the area.

However, at the time villagers said the closure had not stopped some drivers ignoring the closure and driving on the pavement - with at least one of them caught on camera.

This week, Michael Edwards, Medway Council’s head of integrated transport, said: “Bellway, which has recently carried out works in the area, contacted us on Wednesday, 9 May to advise there was subsidence in Bells Lane, Hoo.

"We visited the site and have closed the section of the road until Bellway carries out any necessary repairs.

"A diversion route is currently in place along A228 Ratcliffe Highway and Ropers Lane.

“We had planned to carry out improvement works in Main Road, Hoo, overnight on Wednesday, 9 May, and Thursday, 10 May; however, to improve residents’ access to the village, these works have been postponed.

“We will be keeping in regular contact with Bellway to find out when Bells Lane can be reopened.”

The road is currently closed at the Ratcliffe Highway junction with Bells Lane.

Bellway has been contacted for a comment.