Proposals to install double yellow lines in a residential street have been branded “a terrible mistake” and “completely unfair”.

Those living in Marks Square, Northfleet, have objected to the plans to implement a No Waiting at Any Time restriction on both sides of the road.

Kent County Council’s (KCC) highways team presented its scheme to the Gravesham Joint Transportation Board last week.

It stated the double yellow lines are required to provide 24-hour ambulance access and exit from the back entrance of the ellenor Hospice.

The restrictions, which will be installed for 33 metres from number 42 Marks Square, were approved as part of a previous planning application.

Following a consultation, KCC received seven letters of support but 20 objections, many of which said they were concerned the restrictions would exacerbate the area’s already “chaotic” and “horrific” parking.

One added: “This is completely unfair for residents, our parking is already restricted by the fact we can only park on one side of the road.

“The entrance for ellenor was meant to be temporary. It already has access via the main road. It is not fair to take residents’ parking away from us to facilitate a second entrance for it.”

Another comment raised concerns that the double yellow lines would cause a “knock-on effect” as drivers will be “fighting” for spaces elsewhere in the area.

They added: “This proposal will make it virtually impossible for residents to even park in their own road. It has not been thought through at all.”

The scheme was also branded “a terrible mistake” and “unreasonable”.

However, in response KCC said the local highway authority does not have an obligation to provide on-street parking as it is not the intended use of the road.

Its statement added: “When proposing parking restrictions, we need to manage the very delicate balance of safety with trying to keep an adequate level of parking for both residents and visitors to the area, which is a difficult task.

“KCC has certain duties in relation to the highway, including facilitating the passage of vehicles along roads and preventing danger to persons or other traffic using the road.

“The restrictions that have been proposed are the bare minimum required as the result of a vehicle swept path analysis that will allow 24-hour access and egress to the rear operational hospice for ambulances, fire engines and refuge vehicles as this will be a permanent entrance.”

Members of the Gravesham Joint Transportation Board noted the report and KCC has confirmed the scheme will be going ahead.

The works will be completed by a developer on behalf of ellenor and will be responsible for setting a start date.