Road chiefs behind a controversial new scheme in Gorleston say they are still putting the finishing touches to the layout.

Traffic calming changes in the high street have drawn criticism with some saying they are a menace to motorists.

The £20,000 package of measures has been installed over the last few months, triggering complaints.

However, officials at Norfolk County Council have hit back saying the scheme aims to make the street safer for pedestrians, with slower speeds and more crossing points.

MORE: Traffic calming measures in Gorleston High Street blamed for adding to congestion and ruining tyres as motorists complainA spokesman said: 'These plans were developed in response to stats which showed an increase in personal injury accidents on the street.

'We wanted to maintain the vibrancy of this popular shopping street while slowing speeds so we drew up plans last year and asked local residents and businesses for their opinions on the scheme to introduce a 20mph speed limit and create a number of buildouts to help keep speeds low and make crossing the road easier.

'Following feedback from the consultation we amended our plans to only include one buildout, rather than the three buildouts and two new crossings as originally proposed.

'And earlier this year we started work on the scheme.

'There are still some finishing touches to make, including some extra signs to put in which was something suggested by our safety audit which we carry out after we put in any new scheme.

'Additional lining around the buildouts and more 20mph signs have been recently added and we are awaiting delivery of an additional combined 20mph/High Street sign and two bollards for the buildouts which we will install as soon as they arrive from the manufacturer.

'We hope once the scheme is complete drivers will keep their speeds low which will help make the street safer for all to use.'

Fears were first raised by Malcolm Stone whose car struck a raised kerb, damaging the tyre and landing him with a £45 bill.

It emerged he was not the first to encounter problems, with other people coming forward to say they had had a similar experience.

Better signage, bollards, and reflective signs were among refinements people using the road said would help, especially where the road narrowed at the top of Ice House Hill.