Double yellow lines have been painted on a busy estate to clear the way for ambulances to access the West Cumberland Hospital.

While major roadworks are taking place on Homewood Road, which is the main route leading to the hospital, the lines have been placed on Rutland Avenue to stop cars parking there.

When the lines first appeared last month many residents complained as they said they had not been informed of the action and they were unable to park outside of their own homes.

However, a county council spokesman said the markings are only a temporary measure to ensure a clear way to Homewood Hill, to allow a "safe and swift passage" of emergency service vehicles from the A595 to the hospital.

"Cumbria County Council recognises that these lines may cause local residents inconvenience, however as the local highway authority, we are responsible for ensuring a safe highways network," he added.

"The intention is that once the first phase of the re-surfacing works on Homewood Road is completed, these temporary lines can be removed."

Phase two of the works is due to begin on August 16.