Double yellow lines painted behind a bench in a car-free pedestrian zone have been branded "the most pointless parking restrictions ever".
Parking and cars are banned at any time in Sheerness, Kent, where the town's clock tower normally stands in an area impossible for traffic to access.
Before it was pedestrianised, there were double yellow lines on the street that have gradually faded over time.
Swale Council has defended the painting as "refreshed", but has also conceded they are due to be removed anyway.
Conservative Cllr Cameron Beart, who represents Queenborough and Halfway on Swale Council and Sheppey on Kent County Council, said they "must be the most pointless double yellow lines ever."
He added: "They are an absolute eyesore and totally unnecessary in a pedestrianised part of the conservation area.
"They serve no purpose at all and should be removed."
Stephen Jackson, whose Jacksonwood Vintage Tea Rooms overlook that section of the High Street, was equally confused.
He said: "You could hardly see the old lines but that's not an excuse for repainting them, as they shouldn't be there now.
"The old lines were probably there from before the benches were put in. It's a complete waste of time."
After carrying out the paint job, Swale Council confirmed the lines are now due to be removed.
A spokesperson said: "The double yellow lines that were already at the clock tower were refreshed by our lining contractors who were working to repaint yellow lines in Broadway and the high street in Sheerness.
"We carry out regular lining and signage maintenance around Swale.
"These restrictions are now scheduled for removal."
The clock tower is currently being renovated and is not expected to return until later this year.
