MOTORISTS are likely to face lengthy delays when an historic bridge in a Kent village closes to traffic for up to eight weeks.

The Town Bridge at Yalding, near Maidstone, is due to shut to all vehicles from Monday, January 8, to allow an ageing cast iron gas main that runs across it to be replaced.

Southern Gas Networks said there was no alternative to closing the single carriageway 450ft long bridge to enable the work to be carried out.

The stone crossing point over the River Beult – the longest surviving medieval bridge in Kent – links the two halves of the village and is a busy route for local and through traffic. Traffic diversions for cars, lorries and buses will be set up.

Yalding Parish Council chairman Cllr Geraldine Brown said disruption to both drivers and villagers was inevitable but the work was “an absolute necessity”.

“The gas main is so old and there have been several gas leaks so most people are very pleased the main is being replaced.

“Pedestrians will be able to cross the bridge during the work so nobody will be marooned.”

Sharon Miller-McKenzie from Southern Gas Networks said: "There will be some short term pain for a long term gain."

Although work is scheduled to take eight weeks, advanced construction techniques used by contractors should mean it is completed in six.