The freshly-laid granite in the High Street was dug up over the Bank Holiday weekend, due to an emergency electrical problem.

The work, carried out by UK Power Networks, meant that a section of the paving had to be lifted.

But council bosses stressed that the work had only been allowed because it was an emergency.

A spokesman said all utility companies were informed that all planned and necessary works had had to be completed before the granite was laid.

He added: "None of the utilities are allowed to do any planned works now for five years; they can only carry out emergency works.

"Kent County Council will be making sure repairs are carried out to a high standard. There is a stockpile of granite for such eventualities."