Highway chiefs decided to scrap the new markings from the roundabout between Chorley and Euxton, close to Tesco, after a raft of complaints from motorists who warned that the lines had created "an accident waiting to happen".

The hatchings reduced the number of lanes on the roundabout, at the A581 Southport Road, from two to one forcing motorists into a bottleneck at the narrowest point.

Many drivers complained of being confused about the new layout because of a lack of signs and the reduction in lanes was blamed for a build-up in rush-hour traffic.

Euxton resident and former councillor, Danny Gee, was vocal in his opposition to the layout and welcomed Lancashire County Council's action in removing them on Tuesday night.

Mr Gee said: "The lines were removed at about 7pm and signs have been put in place to tell motorists of the new road structure.

"The council has reverted back to the old layout of the road but it is too early to tell how effective it will be as many motorists may still use the new system.

"There was a lot of complaints and reaction from residents and motorists about the lines and the council has done well to listen to their concerns and react so quickly.

"I know the council are committed to improving roads in the county and the hatchings did help to slow down the traffic at the roundabout as, although the speed limit is 30, many drivers do speed. We will just have to wait to see what happens."

Lancashire County Council said they had monitored the situation with the new markings and had decided to remove them as they had caused unwarranted congestion.

The council is now considering the possibility of introducing a new pedestrian crossing at the roundabout in the future.