Commuters and shoppers trying to get into town today face delays and a lengthy diversion because of a gas leak.

SGN engineers are on the scene carrying out emergency repairs on the A26 Tonbridge Road in Maidstone, but the road is closed in both directions between Terrace Road and Milton Street.

A signed diversion takes motorists via Hermitage Lane, A20 London Road, A20 Rocky Hill and A26 Tonbridge Road and vice versa.

SGN says it will try to maintain access for residents to properties in Milton Street.

The road was closed at about 4pm yesterday and remains shut this morning.