Drivers facing 7 mile diversions for A21 works

The resurfacing work will involve overnight carriageway and lane closures along five sections of the A21 between Hastings and Pembury.

The work is due to be completed, weather permitting, at the end of August.

The Highways Agency says the resurfacing will ‘provide drivers with smoother, safer and quieter journeys.’

Project sponsor Anita Waterton said: “As part of the Government’s investment in infrastructure, sections of the carriageway in Kent and East Sussex will be resurfaced to provide drivers with smoother, safer and quieter journeys on this vital route.

“We have planned the work to be carried out in phases, and overnight when traffic flows are lowest, to minimise disruption.

“The diversion routes will add up to seven miles and I would recommend anyone wishing to use the A21 to plan their journeys and allow extra time.”

The work will be carried out overnight, between 8pm and 6am.

It will be carried out in phases and is currently planned as follows:

• Pembury: the coastbound exit and entry slip road will be closed for five nights from Monday June 16.

The eastbound A264 over the A21 will also be closed.

A diversion will be in place via the A21 and Tonbridge Road.

• Lamberhurst: the A21 will be closed in both directions between the Forstal Farm roundabout and the Flimwell crossroads for five nights from Monday June 23.

A diversion will be in place via the A262, A229 and A268.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place at Goudhurst to manage traffic through the village.

• Coopers Corner and St John’s Cross roundabouts: The A21 will be closed in both directions between the Flimwell Crossroads and the A28 for five nights from Monday July 14.

A diversion will be in place via the A268 and A28.

• Kent Street: The A21 will be closed in both directions between the Flimwell Crossroads and the A28 for five nights from Monday August 4.

A diversion will be in place via the A268 and A28.

• Hastings: the A21 will be closed in both directions between John’s Cross roundabout and the A2100 for five nights from Monday August 18.

A diversion will be in place via the A2100.

Drivers wishing to use the A28 junction will be diverted via the A259 through Rye.

Access will be maintained for local residents and businesses and will be managed locally on site.