Road reopenings delayed second time after ‘unchartered services’ discovered at A249

The reopening of two roads which are part of a well-used junction has been delayed for the second time.

An “urgent” notice was issued for those who use Grovehurst roundabout and the A249 near Sittingbourne.

Kent County Council aims to future-proof the road network along the A249 corridor ahead of major housebuilding in the area.

Jackson Civil Engineering is currently working on changing the existing dumbbell junction to a two-bridge flyover.

However, the contractors have recently published an “urgent” notice of closure extensions.

It is the second time these closures have been extended.

They were shut during January and February and were expected to open for driverson Monday, April 28.

They will instead be shut from 6am on Tuesday, May 6.

A Jackson spokesperson said it was due to the “discovery of some unchartered services and extended utility works”.

They added: “We will continue to keep you informed of our traffic management plans as early as possible to help plan your journeys.

“Thank you for your understanding.”

It is understood that “unchartered services” refer to utilities – including gas, water and electrics – which are not officially documented or regulated.