A busy road set to close for three months has reopened following a large water leak.

The A228 Frindsbury Hill was shut in both directions, between Bill Street Road and Church Green in Strood, due to a burst main.

Video footage showed water gushing out of a large pothole which has been cordoned off.

The sudden closure began on Monday (March 4) morning and has been affecting commuters and bus users in Frindsbury Hill and Wainscott.

Emergency works were due to be completed on the same day at the site – which is between the Tesco petrol station and Naz’s Rasoi Indian restaurant.

It has now been confirmed the road reopened yesterday (March 6) afternoon.

The news comes just days ahead of a three-month closure planned for the same key route.

Frindsbury Hill is set close in both directions from the Sans Pareil roundabout from Monday, March 11 to Friday, June 21.

It was revealed that a burst along the road was caused by a blown ferrule – a cap used in pipe and fixture joints to create a tight compression fitting.

Southern Water has apologised for the delays the issue caused.

Speaking on Monday, a spokesman said: “Our teams are tackling a burst water main at Frindsbury Hill between Bill Street Road and Church Green.

“We’re sorry for the disruption and inconvenience this is causing people in the area.”

In a separate statement, a spokesman for Medway Council added: “The mains leak was reported [on] (March 3) and council officers are liaising with Southern Water on site this morning.

“It is hoped the road can be reopened as soon as possible.”

Arriva had to divert passengers for its 192 service via Hollywood Lane and Brompton Farm to reach Strood.

Frindsbury Hill will be shut from next Monday for the construction of an entrance to the new Maritime Academy School.

The 5.4-mile stretch of road is one of the busiest in the area and is predicted to cause traffic chaos for commuters and businesses.

Rochester and Strood MP Kelly Tolhurst has already expressed her concerns.

“I am deeply troubled and concerned by what is being proposed,” the Tory MP explained.

“This will cause three months of disruption in the busiest part of my constituency. Over recent months residents have faced delays of up to 45 minutes or even an hour getting around town.

“I’m not sure how we will manage in those three months.”

The diversion will take motorists to Wulfere Way, through Hasted Road, Gravesend Road, London Road, Gun Lane and then back to Frindsbury Road.