The next step in the development of the Rushenden Relief Road will start this weekend.

Work is due to start on Sunday to install a road bridge over the railway line.

The bridge will be a step closer to connecting the A249 and land at Neats Court with the Queenborough and Rushenden sites which have been earmarked for housing.

The bridge will be supported by steel beams, which are due to be lifted into position this weekend.

Completion of the Rushenden Relief Road, which will redirect heavy goods traffic from both new and existing businesses, is expected to be next year.

The work is being carried out by contractor Birse Civils Limited on behalf of Kent County Council.

The road bridge is part of the £800m regeneration of Queenborough and Rushenden which is being led by South East Development Agency (SEEDA).

The project includes up to 2,000 new homes and community facilities and a new 180-berth marina.

The work will mean the closure of the Sheerness to Sittingbourne railway from 1am on Sunday to 4am on Monday.

A temporary bus replacement service will be in operation while the track is closed.

Some overnight railway closures will also be brought in next week.

Goodwin Kirk, project manager at Birse, said: “Whilst these works are not anticipated to generate significant noise, there is a requirement for plant to operate throughout the weekend and for the site to be illuminated during the hours of darkness.

“Disruption to residents will be kept to an absolute minimum.”