A busy bridge in Tunbridge Wells will reopen today following works by Kent County Council (KCC).

Grosvenor Bridge has been closed to traffic since work began in January, with a scheduled completion in the autumn. The authority has been reconstructing the concrete pillars which support the bridge, and the road that it carries.

Temporary supports were put in place to support the bridge will the pillars were rebuilt, which meant the bridge could not carry traffic.

This work has now been completed, and the road above resurfaced. This means that the bridge is opening months ahead of schedule.

Matthew Balfour, KCC cabinet member for transport, said: "I’d like to congratulate the team behind the Grosvenor Bridge scheme that has done this complex work quickly and efficiently.

"Our Highway Structures team and the contractor Dyer & Butler has delivered a very successful, well managed project.

"I appreciate this has been a long-time coming for residents in Tunbridge Wells and my thanks go to both the residents and businesses in the area for their patience whilst these essential works were carried out."

Roger Wilkin, director of highways transportation and waste, added: "Our maintenance of bridges can sometimes go unseen as all the work is beneath road level.

"This very important maintenance work has been completed, ensuring the future integrity of the structure and road surface for years to come.

"We thank everyone for their patience whilst the road was closed to undertake this essential work."