The circular feature adjacent to the famous old structure next to the 1st and 18th fairways was authorised by St Andrews Links Trust to mitigate wear and tear.

But after a backlash they decided to dig it up.

"In recent years we have identified and trialled a number of solutions, with the primary ambition always to find something that is both adequate for the amount of foot traffic for such a popular location whilst being in keeping with its surroundings," the Trust said in a statement.

"The stonework at the approach and exit of the bridge was identified as one possible long term solution, however while this installation would have provided some protection, in this instance we believe we are unable to create a look which is in keeping with its iconic setting and have taken the decision to remove it."

Turf will be re-laid around the bridge, which was originally built 700 years ago and which is one of the most photographed landmarks in world golf.

Critics of the works included Nick Faldo, who won The Open on the course in 1990.

"If you've travelled halfway around the world for your bucket list round at St Andrews, would you rather leave with a bit of historic dirt on your shoes or a few cement mix scraps?" Faldo said.