Five months of traffic disruption kicked off today with the closure of a town centre road, but pedestrian access will be maintained after all.

The multi-million pound Spirit of Sittingbourne regeneration has started with Milton Road being shut off.

Swale council announced last Wednesday (July 19) it would be shut for both vehicles and those on foot, but on Friday, July 21, a spokesman said the route would be open to walkers after Kent Highways confirmed the news.

Milton Road is shut until Friday, August 25, so UK Power Networks can install electricity supplies for new shops at the former Princes Street depot, off Eurolink Way, including Home Bargains and Iceland’s Food Warehouse.

Part of Dover Street, between Milton Road and the A2, has also been closed.

It’s the first part of the works, which will run until Christmas.

From Tuesday, August 1, St Michael’s Road will be partially closed to traffic to make changes to the layout in front of the railway station, ahead of the buildin of a cinema and restaurants.

Have you been down there this morning? Were you affected? Get in touch via sittingbourne@thekmgroup.co.uk