New restrictions stopping motorists from parking on double yellow lines outside a row of village shops will “save lives”, it’s been claimed.

However, some businesses have argued more spaces for cars to park is needed along The Parade, in Meopham, near Gravesend, to solve the traffic issues in the area.

Kent County Council (KCC) has completed a local transport plan (LTP) scheme on the A227 Wrotham Road, adjacent to the shops, in the hopes of providing “a safer environment for road users” and ease congestion.

Before the new restrictions, the area was plagued with vehicles parking on the double yellow lines which obstructed the view for those exiting The Parade and facing oncoming traffic.

Congestion was also caused by cars and lorries stopping in the live lane of traffic on the A227 and unloading and loading where there were already no restrictions in place.

The improvement works, funded by the LTP, aimed to “improve the situation” by introducing a central traffic island on the A227, opposite The Parade, to reduce the carriageway by one metre and new hatching to virtually narrow the road.

Contractors also erected bollards on the existing traffic island, between the A227 and The Parade, to prevent drivers from parking on it, added new signs to direct drivers to the car park in School Close and created safer waiting and crossing areas for pedestrians.

Welcoming the changes, ward councillor for Meopham North, Cllr Frank Wardle (Con), said: “It is making the road safer but we are still getting people parking in the bus section.

“Before the island was in, it was a hazard with people parking on the double yellow lines and not worry about people coming out off The Parade.

“It was dangerous and something had to be done. With what has been done, it is still new but I believe it is saving lives.”

Tracy, who did not wish to give her surname, said she would often see near misses as vehicles would park on the double yellow lines and traffic islands blocking the view of drivers trying to leave The Parade.

The travel agent added: “It has made a whole world of difference. It is so much safer when cars are trying to get out of the exit.

“I think it is a really good idea. I know people do not like it because it restricts the parking but we have to put safety first, especially with so many children around near the school.

“It was so dangerous before so the scheme has massively helped. I think it is 100% better and safer.”

However, barber Ramze Ali thinks the shopping parade needs more parking spaces for customers rather than additional restrictions.

He said: “People used to park on the double yellow lines but it is because we need more parking spaces.

“It is affecting business as our customers cannot get parked. People are starting to go to Istead Rise now because there is no space in the car park here.”

In response, Cllr Wardle added: “I do agree there is more parking needed. The amount of cars that park there has got to go somewhere.

“However, as far as I am concerned, if this saves lives and stops accidents then it is a good thing.”

There are currently several spaces in The Parade and a small car park nearby in School Close for customers.