MOTORISTS are being warned to expect delays a large transformer is transported from Chatham Docks to Kemsley substation, near Sittingbourne.

The 75 metre long vehicle which will carry the 428-ton equipment will leave Gillingham at about 10pm today (Friday).

It will travel along Pier Road, Sovereign Boulevard and Hoath Way to the M2 junction 4.

It will continue onto the M2 to junction 3, Blue Bell Hill, to junction 7 on the M20 onto the A249 Sittingbourne Road, Old Ferry Road to (Old) Sheppey Way – north of Iwade, where it will stay overnight.

On February 21 the shipment will begin the second phase of its journey via Old Ferry Road, A249 Westbound, Grovehurst Road, Grovehurst Avenue and Ypres Drive.

The trailers delivering the transformer will remain on site until February 22 and are scheduled to leave the substation between 10am and 1pm.

Project Manager Richard Andrews said: "This is a huge piece of equipment to move and the route and timing of the journey have been carefully planned with the Highways Agency, police and local councils to minimise disruption.

"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank people in advance for their cooperation."

There will be a second transformer delivery over the weekend of February 27 to March 1 and two more in April.

In Kemsley village a flower bed on Ypres Drive has been removed so that the deliveries can take place.