A CAMPAIGN has been launched to remove yellow lines causing ‘huge traffic problems’ in Oswaldtwistle.

More than 100 people have signed a petition over the double yellow lines on both sides of Spread Eagle Street, which were installed because of a now-defunct bus lane.

Residents say it means they cannot park outside their homes and customers cannot park outside businesses.

Jeff Ellis, who has lived on the street for more than 30 years, said: “They were put down over 30 years ago when a double-decker bus ran to a mill at the top of the road. That mill was demolished 20 years ago, but the lines still remain.

“The number of people with cars in this area has increased over the years and more parking spaces are needed.

“The two local businesses here - a butchers and a confectioners - also need supporting.”

Ward councillor Marlene Haworth said: “The lines are totally redundant and we cannot see any need for them.

“The bus lane was removed a long time ago, and the double yellow lines, combined with speed humps along here cause real congestion issues for the residents and businesses.”

County Councillor Peter Britcliffe said he has contacted Lancashire County Council’s highways department and is hopeful something can be done.

He said: “I’ve asked Lancashire County Council to look into the problem and they tell me that officers will be conducting a study of the area.

“I’m hoping that they will decide in favour of the residents as it is causing huge traffic problems in the area.”

No one was available to comment from the county council, which is the highways authority for the borough.