A large sinkhole, which partially closed a main road, was caused by a burst water main.

Milton Road, in Gravesend, was cordoned off between Cumberland Avenue and Ordnance Road on Tuesday afternoon (May 6).

Southern Water teams attended and repaired the pipe, using tankers to keep customers in supply while the work was completed.

A spokesman added: “We are sorry for the disruption and inconvenience this caused.”

Part of Milton Road remained sealed off on Wednesday (May 7), and motorists were being warned to avoid the area.

Arriva were also diverting its 190, 481, 489, 490 and 491 services due to the large sinkhole.

They were rerouted via Parrock Road, Parrock Street, Echo Square and Old Road East in both directions.

Kent County Council (KCC) confirmed repair work had begun, including on parts of the road that have been damaged, on Wednesday.

Once the materials were set, the highway was fully reopened yesterday (May 8) with an inspection due to take place today (May 9).

The sinkhole is thought to have appeared at around 1.30pm on Tuesday.

Police officers and two fire engines were called, and crews helped make the scene safe.

Passerby Bobby Khuttan was riding their scooter on the other side of the pavement when they saw the emergency services arrive.

They said: “I went to see what was going on and saw a sinkhole before the policeman put the line up and closed the road.”