Temporary Traffic Lights To Be Installed On Hermitage Lane Near Maidstone Hospital For Electricity Works

A main route used by people travelling to a busy hospital is set to undergo 10 days of disruption.

Temporary traffic lights will be installed along Hermitage Lane in Maidstone.

Two-way traffic lights will be set up along Hermitage Lane in Maidstone. Picture: Jim Yarwood

It is to allow contractors GTC Infrastructure Limited to install a new electricity supply on behalf of Esquire Developments.

They are a utility partner for housebuilders across the UK – providing water, gas and sewage to new-build developments.

Construction started on The Bluebells in December. It is set to become a 42-home estate.

Plans were given the green light by Maidstone council last July despite concerns the new houses would lead to traffic problems.

Work appears to be underway on the 2.52-hectare area, with diggers and machinery present.

Work has already started on The Bluebells development along the road

The two-way lights will be in place next to the site, between Chapelfield Way and Hermitage Court.

It will be the sixth set of traffic lights along the road.

As well as being a busy route between Barming and Aylesford, it’s used by ambulances and patients to get to Maidstone Hospital.

A spokeswoman for Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) said: “We work closely with our local partners to ensure roadworks near our hospitals are, where possible, carried out at a time that minimises the impact on local traffic.

“We would encourage everyone to check the council/highway’s websites for the latest information and if local roadworks are in place, allow more time for their journey.

Maidstone Hospital is asking people to consider alternative methods of travel to minimise congestion

“Considering alternative methods of travel, including buses and trains, can also help reduce congestion in the area as well as the trust’s new free park and ride service.”

Staff and visitors to both hospitals often struggle to find a parking place at peak times.

The free alternative was launched to help combat this problem and launched at the beginning of the month.

A recent Facebook post was shared in a local group, warning residents and motorists of the upcoming disruption.

It said: “Stand by for mayhem and frustration from February 10 for 10 days. Hermitage Lane just above the Hermitage Park junction.