A local resident has expressed concern about traffic problems in the area as Thames Water plans to shut down Westerham Hill for major works throughout the festive period.

The works, which start from December 16, involve the extension of a water mains pipe to supply new residential properties in Westerham.

The disruption is set to span two weeks and cause significant road diversions.

The local said that these works will "cause complete chaos on the road, undoubtedly many accidents, and extreme danger for pedestrians and horse riders."

The main road will be closed southbound from the junction of Tatsfield Lane / Grays Road for approximately 400 meters.

The 246 bus service will operate on a modified timetable, to be officially confirmed by TFL, and will follow a diverted route.

During the closure period, there will be no pedestrian or vehicle access allowed.

The concerned driver told the News Shopper: "After using Westerham Hill yesterday at around 5pm, the sheer volume of traffic, including lorries and buses coming up and down that main thoroughfare made me feel physically sick for what will happen for the next few weeks – including Christmas."

The resident warned of the potential impact of the diversions on country roads, adding: "I can’t imagine what it is going to look like when that significant volume of traffic and especially large vehicles, are trying to pass each other on Ricketts Hill Road, for example.

"They will quite simply get stuck."

The resident claims that if two buses meet, they will not be able to pass each other, causing chaos on the road.

There was emphasis on the disregard of local businesses that would likely suffer from the traffic diversion and disruption.

The resident called it a "disgraceful (or possibly good) example of woeful planning, complete disregard for local communities in favour of a large corporation, and total disinterest with zero communication from our local councillor and other parties whose sole reason for existence is looking after the people they supposedly represent."

Thames Water remained confident that the job would be correctly managed and explained that they held a drop-in session on December 4 to inform residents of the planned work.

An official spokesperson for the company said: "We’re committed to supporting our customers, which includes supplying water to new properties.

"On Saturday 16 December 2023, we’ll be starting work to extend a water mains pipe in order to supply water to new residential properties in Westerham.

"This will involve a two-week road closure on Westerham Hill and will mean local traffic is diverted during this time."

They also reassured the community stating: "We appreciate that the road diversion will impact the local community and are working closely with Kent County Council to minimise disruption.

"Residents can find out more about the work by visiting our website."