The lanes were introduced earlier this year, partly funded by the federal government’s Black Spot program. However, TBUG has reported the bike lanes will now be removed because of “pressure from radio media, drivers and the fast food outlet”.

A council spokesman said removing the lanes would “further improve intersection performance, reduce confusion and allow more queuing space for vehicles”.

“Critically, we have maintained the safety feature of the newly installed right hand turn lanes, as improving safety is a key requirement of the Black Spot project funding, and the addition of these lanes have been welcomed by many motorists.

“It's important to remember that the City of Launceston is the most advanced council in the state in terms of incorporating bicycle infrastructure into our road systems.”

A post on TBUG’s facebook page said the decision was made “despite the recent traffic hold ups being caused by malfunctioning lights”.

“This occurred because the controller was hit by a car, not because of the bike lanes or bike holding boxes. Complaints of slow traffic movement through Kings Meadows are also a result of the new pedestrian lights that have made it safer for pedestrians to cross Hobart Road. The Opossum/Hobart Road intersection upgrade was [partly] funded by the National Black Spot program.

“The intersection met the funding criteria due to the cost of the 20 crashes that had occurred over the past five years. TBUG is writing to the council to express our disappointment. So much for making roads safer for vulnerable road users.”