DISABLED shoppers have been promised new parking spaces after they lost their traditional spots as part of a town-centre redevelopment.

The relocation of Accrington's fish market has resulted in the temporary loss of the special parking places used by disabled badge holders at the top of Broadway, close to Whalley Road.

Campaigners for disabled people slammed the move last week but today there was encouraging news from Nigel Rix, director of Hyndburn First, the regeneration body involved in the rebuilding of Accrington market square.

He said: "Parking for disabled shoppers and for servicing the fish market is being provided in Whalley Road. We wish to apologise for any inconvenience caused.

"The overall arrangements are to ensure that Accrington market continues to thrive through the 12 months of the redevelopment."

Last week Richard Day, chairman of Accrington Shopmobility, said he was disgusted with town planners over the removal of the parking spaces.

He claimed disabled people were now going to other towns because they were unable to park close enough to where they wanted to shop.

Mr Rix said the fish market was now operating from temporary kiosks which had new equipment and which were fully plumbed and serviced.

Moving the fish market to its temporary site is one of the first steps in the Accrington market square refurbishment, which will start in earnest next month.

The kiosks, which have been designed to ensure businesses can continue to trade in fresh fish, will remain in place for about eight months.

The old fish market will be demolished next month.