There is confusion, anger and frustration after it was revealed a major A-road near Rotherfield has closed to all traffic for two months.
Motorists wanting to travel between Tunbridge Wells and Heathfield on the A267 will encounter substantial diversions around the emergency works on the gas network.
The news has angered some Rotherfield residents who fear traffic could be diverted through the village – which is already regularly congested with vehicles. And Crowborough could see a significant increase in traffic, especially HGVs.
East Sussex County Council said it had only become aware of the major works when digital signs warning about the closure were put up by Southern Gas Networks – giving them very little time to establish diversionary routes.
ESCC said it was the first time ever the A267 has been closed in both directions and all other non-essential roadworks in the area would be suspended.
HGVs cannot be diverted through Rotherfield village as heavy lorries were banned from the village centre for the damage they were doing to historic buildings, including the Kings Arms pub.
The three mile section of the A267 from Argos Hill to Mark Cross has been shut for eight from February 16 for permanent repairs. This follows a temporary repair to protect gas supplies was completed.
Southern Gas Networks apologised for the disruption. A spokesperson said: “We recognise roadworks can be frustrating for residents and road users and we’re sorry for any inconvenience this essential work causes.”
But he said the work was essential because water infiltrated a major gas main which now needs to be replaced. “Our engineer extracted the water, made a repair and restored the gas supplies, but to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of this pipework, we need to urgently replace this section.”
One Rotherfield resident, who asked not to be named, said the village was concerned. “I think people appreciate that sometimes work like this has to happen but it doesn’t feel like the gas company has given enough time for properly thought through diversions to be put in place.
“Our village often comes to a standstill at the best of times and what this will do, especially at busy school drop off and pick up times, doesn’t bear thinking about. And will drivers try to use the tiny network of single track lanes? It could be chaotic.”
He added the situation would be especially inconvenient for HGVs. “They are going to have to travel miles to get around the closure. I can only think they’ll have to use the A26 through Crowborough as an alternative.”