Drivers have been warned to expect up to 12 weeks of delays as temporary traffic lights are installed along a major route.

The measures will be put in place to allow South East Water to lay 95 metres of pipes on the Old Thanet Way near Westbrook Lane, between Whitstable and Herne Bay, which will start on Monday, January 7.

A 440-metre stretch will later be fitted under the grass verge and pavement of the main road between Flamingo Drive and Braid Drive.

Two sets of temporary traffic lights will be installed for the duration of the work, which is estimated to take about 12 weeks.

Matthew Cooper, from South East Water, said: "We will be installing two new sections of water main along the A2990 Old Thanet Way in Herne Bay.

"This £140,000 project will help us to increase the amount of water we can pump through our extensive network of underground pipes and better control the flow of water.

"It will also ensure we can continue to maintain water pressure to the area as the community grows.

“The project is expected to take approximately 12 weeks to complete and access to homes and businesses will be maintained throughout.”

South East Water has also urged commuters to allow extra time for their journeys while the work takes place.