A DECISION to part tarmac over a restored cobbled lane in preparation for the introduction of double yellow lines has sparked anger.

Cumbria County Council contractors have laid tarmac strips on Sepulchre Lane, Kendal, a narrow cobbled street that has received Heritage Lottery Fund money to maintain it.

The council's actions have angered one resident, who says that a historic and scenic walking spot has been ruined.

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Anne Middleton said: "These are beautiful cobble stones supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and then they (CCC) go and put down this hideous tarmac all the way up."

The tarmac has been laid in preparation for the painting of double yellow lines to prevent cars from parking on the narrow, steep sloping lane.

But Mrs Middleton said that her neighbours have lived in the area for 27 years and never seen a car parked on the lane.

"It's too steep, it's too narrow, everything is wrong about it," she said. "I enjoy walking down here so much, it's so beautiful, and they have gone and done this. Everyone is up in arms about it."

Patricia Hovey, secretary of Kendal Civic Society, was equally baffled by the decision.

"I think it's absolutely appalling, I know it's on a narrow strip of tarmac but it's totally out of place on that old lane," she said.

"It will look awful. It will look like a main street.

"Cars used to go up there but we stopped it and they agreed to put the bollards up there so no cars could go up.

"It's a lovely bit of Kendal and it should never have tarmac and double yellow lines on it."

A spokesperson for CCC said: "A consultation on proposals to introduce parking restrictions on Sepulchre Lane took place with local residents in December 2015, following their concerns over parking issues.

"In January 2016 South Lakeland Local Committee agreed a Traffic Regulation Order and for the installation of double yellow lines to resolve these issues. Contractors are now in the process of completing this highly sought after work on Sepulchre Lane. To ensure that it remains appropriate, the council will continue to monitor the impact of these restrictions.”