Part of a major route near a school is to close later this month.

Walderslade Road in Chatham will be shut on Friday, March 29.

The closure will be between the junctions of King George Road and Weeds Wood Road.

Work is to be carried out by SGN to upgrade the gas network along the 650-metre stretch.

SGN spokesman, Bradley Barlow, says the position of pipes means the road needs to close for safety reasons.

He said: "In consultation with Medway Council, we’ll be upgrading our gas network in the Gorse Avenue area of Chatham for approximately two weeks.

"This work will upgrade our old metal gas mains and services with new plastic pipes.

"This essential work will ensure the local community continues to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.

"Our contractors, WCB Utilities, is carrying out this project on our behalf and have already completed work in Weeds Wood Road, Silverweed Road, Saffron Way, Myrtle Crescent, Heather Close and Gorse Avenue."

Diversions will be in place during the works.

Meanwhile, vehicle access for residents and businesses will be maintained where it is safe to do so.

The route is estimated to reopen on April 14.

The work coincides with the Easter holidays so should not impact Greenacre Academy and Walderslade Girls' School, Mr Barlow said.