TWO-WAY Day - Monday September 18 - sees the current town centre ring-road in Chatham, including The Brook and Best Street, change from one-way to two-way traffic. The Sir John Hawkins Flyover will close, except to buses, taxis and bicycles. The operation follows nearly six months of road works.

The ring road, built 30 years ago, is reverting to two-way traffic as part of a £1 billion, 20-year plan to regenerate Chatham town centre and the Rochester and Chatham waterfronts.

In recent years it was recognised that the ring road was having an adverse affect on the development of Chatham because it effectively turned the town centre into an "island" and cut the main shopping area off from the River Medway. There are long-term plans to develop a cultural centre on the banks of the Medway at Chatham.

The Sir John Hawkins flyover has also been condemned by critics as a blot on the Chatham landscape which has created an eyesore at the western end of Chatham High Street.

New road markings necessary for a smooth and safe changeover to two-way traffic are being painted in phases up until Two-Way Day.

A council spokesman said:" Introducing two-way traffic in Chatham centre is an important piece of the jigsaw of regeneration in Medway. It will make Chatham a place to come to rather than go through. And it will free up the area for massive investment and a bright future as the retail, cultural and civic hub of Medway."

Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Frontline Services, Cllr Phil Filmer said:

“A road scheme on this scale is not possible without some disruption. The council is doing everything it can to minimise that disruption – and we ask you to do the same. We recommend that, if you can, you consider travelling outside peak periods or taking an alternative route – especially if your destination is not in Chatham centre. You could also consider alternative means of transport such as park and ride. Bear with us for now – you’ll like the road ahead.”

Motorists and pedestrians will not feel the full benefit of the Chatham road project until Phase 2 of the scheme, currently planned to get under way next year.

Proposals include:

- demolishing the Sir John Hawkins flyover.
- further road improvements.
- new car parks, and expanded park and ride.
- a major new bus station.

In the run-up to September 18 there will be information about Two-Way Day on roadside billboards, in Medway newspapers and on local radio stations, including kmfm. Residents can also call the helpline (01634 334567) for more information.