The end is in sight for long-suffering drivers affected by weeks of roadworks on Blue Bell Hill.

SGN have been carrying out emergency repairs on the A229 since November 6, and announced that two lanes could be closed Chatham-bound for up to seven weeks.

But following discussions with MP Tracey Crouch, they now say the works could be finished ahead of schedule, on Sunday December 11.

The Chatham and Aylesford MP posted a statement on Facebook reading: "Following ongoing discussions with SGN and Kent County Council regarding the works taking place on the A229, please see the latest update from SGN below:"

The SGN statement explained the road had been completely closed Chatham-bound overnight due to a "horizontal directional drill procedure" but was reopened at 6am today.

It added: "We still have work to carry out and we’re committed to completing this as quickly as possible. Our engineers will continue to be on site 24/7 until the repairs are completed. However, due to the nature of the specialist work and equipment required here, we will only be undertaking monitoring works through the night.

"Following last night’s phase of work, we now expect to complete the remaining work ahead of schedule on Sunday 11 December, before carrying out a period of reinstatement to restore the area around our site to its original condition. All being well, we should be able to clear our site and reopen all affected lanes by Sunday, December 18.

"In the meantime, and for everyone’s continued safety, two northbound lanes of the A229 close to the Chatham Road on-slip are closed to motorists. There is also no access to the A229 from Chatham Road.

"One southbound lane also remains closed for safety. However, we expect to be able to reopen the southbound carriageway fully over the weekend.

"We’re pleased to announce last night’s closure allowed collaborative works with Kent County Council to be completed. We agreed to carry out these works collaboratively to ensure future disruption in the area is minimised.

"We’d like to reiterate our thanks to affected motorists for your patience and understanding while we carry out this essential work to keep nearby homes and businesses safe and warm."

Ms Crouch added: "While these are emergency works, I know the closures are causing a great deal of disruption around the Blue Bell Hill area and I will of course continue to liaise with SGN and KCC in the coming weeks."