A NEW supermarket has been criticised after it emerged its disabled parking bays were further away from the entrance than some standard spaces.

The two blue badge spaces in the newly-opened Sainsbury's Local, in Darwen Road, Bromley Cross, have caused concern among disabled customers.

Disabled customers who visit the store also have to walk through the car park to get to the entrance as there is no footpath.

One disabled customer, who asked not to be named, said the car park layout would cause particular problems for wheelchair users or people who rely on walking aids.

He said: "It seems a bit stupid not having them opposite the door. I picked an ordinary space, as I don't have any problems walking short distances, because it was closer than the disabled spaces.

"I know several people who have to use walking aids and there isn't a way for them to get from the car to the shop without having to risk stepping in the path of a reversing drivers.

"It's silly to have the two spaces to the side of the store and a number of others in front of the door."

The new store opened on Thursday August 20.

A spokesman for Sainsbury's said bosses were aware of concerns around the disabled parking spaces and were talking to the car park owner to resolve the problem.

He added: “We apologise for the inconvenience and our colleagues are always on hand to help customers access the store.”