Drivers are being forced to take a 23-mile diversion to avoid a road closed due to a burst water pipe.

Since around 6.30am today (November 23) traffic has been very heavy on the A25 Main Road in Sundridge near Sevenoaks.

The 400m stretch of road is closed in both directions between Chevening Road and New Road.

Yet drivers are being told to divert via a series of main roads forcing them to add 23 miles to their journey with parts of the route taking them out of the county.

It also directs people into the newly expanded ULEZ zone meaning people may need to check their car is compliant if they were hoping to follow the directions.

On Kent Highways’ website the route explained takes motorists via A25 Westerham Road/Worships Hill towards A224 London Road.

It then says to head north along Morant’s Court Road for the Orpington bypass.

Next it says to follow the route west to the A21 Sevenoaks Road aiming for the A232 Croydon Road – which takes motorists across the border into London – and then head towards the A233 Westerham Road.

Finally it says to continue heading south turning onto the A25 Westerham Road which then leads to the end of the diversion in High Street – the total route adding 23 miles to people’s journeys.

It is the fifth time the road has been closed for a burst water main with the most recent time closing the road for a weekend on October 23.

A Thames Water spokesperson said: "We responded to reports of a burst water main on Main Road in Sundridge in the early hours on Thursday 23 November.

"Our engineers are currently on site carrying out the repair which is expected to be completed later this evening, during which time a road closure will be in place.

"We are sorry to residents and motorists for any disruption caused and would like them to know our teams are working to resolve the issue as quickly and safely as possible."