Illegally painted double yellow lines have been removed from a housing estate following an outcry from residents.

The lines - installed in Thanington - were put down "in error" by developers of the controversial Cockering Farm scheme.

The unwanted parking restrictions, which were painted outside residents' homes in St Nicholas Road and Cockering Road, would have improved access for the large trucks heading in and out of the construction site.

But - two days after being installed - officials at Kent County Council ordered Pentland Homes to paint over the yellow lines.

Authority spokesman Thom Morris said: "The developer has installed the lines in error and has been instructed by KCC to remove the lines immediately."

Having had no idea the yellow lines would be painted, parish council clerk Roger Cheeseworth was frustrated.

"It's a really bizarre situation," he said.

"Residents who have lived here for years couldn't park outside their homes - it's unfair.

"Some don't have driveways so there was nowhere for them to go.

"Are they going to paint double yellows outside the new homes? I don't think so."

It was earlier reported fed-up Thanington residents were considering moving out of the housing estate due to the loud and disruptive construction work.

"Cockering Road is an absolute mess at the moment," Mr Cheeseworth added.

"Previous applications for the homes off Cockering Road were turned down due to there being unsuitable access roads.

"The roads are too narrow, that's why they want double yellows along there."

The unwanted parking restrictions, which were sloshed over with black paint, could return if they are officially given the go-ahead by the council.

KCC spokesman Mr Morris said: "It is likely that the junctions will require yellow lines for reasons of highway safety, however, a Traffic Regulation Order would be required and this process involves a public consultation.

"This ensures any impacts on local residents are given due consideration."

If it does go out for consultation, Mr Cheeseworth is ready to fight tooth and nail.

"We'll object to them and I'm sure there will be plenty of others who will not want the yellow lines," he warned.

Pentland Homes has been contacted for a comment.