Banners saying sorry to Whitstable visitors have been placed at the Gorrell Tank car park following a row about signage.

The notices were put up at the town's biggest pay and display on Thursday after business leaders demanded improved signs across the town.

The Gorrell Tank was closed in April by Southern Water because of health and safety reasons following an inspection with repair work starting last Monday.

As well as the apology they also list 10 alternative sites to leave cars including Whitstable Football Club and the charity car park in Oxford Street.

Brian Hitcham, president of the Whitstable Chamber of Commerce, says the action was taken because signage remained a huge issue following the closure.

He said: "At a recent meeting we were told the council had 100 signs had been ordered but when I asked when they would materialise they said they didn't know what I was on about.

"I have had no comments from the council but I think they have been well received by the retailers in the town. The signage is still such an issue.

"It's just a case of nobody doing anything constructive."

Mr Hitcham says he has been left unhappy with signs directing motorists to Whitstable Town Football Club after chairman Gary Johnson stepped in to help.

He added: "All we have is a couple of ropey signs which no one can see telling drivers about parking at the football club.

"They have stepped in to help the council and it remains underutilised."

Southern Water project manager Jon Yates says he hopes half the car park will be reopened in July if they are able to work around the tides.

He said: "I would like to thank the people of Whitstable for their continued patience while we have planned this challenging project and as we complete the repairs.

"We know losing the car park has been disruptive but I can assure everyone that we are doing everything we can to get this sorted as quickly as we can."