White lines in Abingdon High Street aimed at replicating the planned single-lane traffic system are to be removed.

The decision follows complaints that the lines have caused traffic congestion. However, the lines marked out in nearby Stert Street for a similar trial run will stay in place.

Two-lane traffic will be reinstated along the length of High Street, between West St Helen Street and the Ock Street junction. The white lining was put in place a month ago in an effort to mimic how single-file traffic, using narrowed lanes and wider pavements, would work, but it will be removed and consideration given to other options.

advertisement Within days, there were complaints that the lines were worsening congestion throughout the town centre. Work was due to start to implement permanent single-lane working in Stert Street this summer and in High Street in January.

David Robertson, Oxfordshire County Council's cabinet member for transport, said: "We have seen their impact on the white line experiment in High Street and we're not satisfied."

Mr Robertson said that the intention was to reduce the amount of traffic in High Street and Stert Street and those aims were being achieved.

He added: "The scheme was thoroughly consulted upon and this is what people wanted. There is no magic wand to take traffic from streets of any part of the country. Abingdon is no different."