The opening of a new supermarket is going to cause a “nightmare” parking situation, local residents are claiming.

Co-Op are opening a store in the former Woodman Pub in Colchester Road, Halstead in mid-September.

However, residents are concerned by the number of parking spaces not being adequate.

The planning application for the supermarket includes provision for 12 spaces, two bike spaces, one motorbike space, and one disabled space.

Gardener Sam Beresford-Foster, 37, of Trinity Road, Halstead, said: “People will park on the road outside, like they already do for the Chinese takeaway.

“It's going to be a nightmare.

“Not everyone passing through Halstead lives in the town, so will not necessarily know about the other Co-Op with parking.

“It will end up like the Co-Op in Earls Colne with cars pulling out, without warning.

“It's fun when you have the weight of a trailer behind your vehicle.”

There were also concerns about the impact the supermarket will have on neighbouring streets.

Fireman Peter Ballisat said: “There will be yet more people parking in Saxon Close who don't live there.”

Louise Seago said: “Parking is already an issue round Saxon Close where people park and walk into the town.

“It is horrendous all round that area causing problems for residents.

“The cars will be queuing to go in and out the car park when it gets busy, especially in the evening.”

A spokesperson for The Co-operative Food said: “The new store will have 13 car parking places and a cycle stand.

“Given that the majority of our shoppers spend on average less than six minutes in the store, this will prove more than adequate.”