A NEWLY-OPENED TK Maxx has attracted plenty of Swindon shoppers – but parking is proving to be a problem.

The retailer moved from its site near McDonald's on Great Western Way to the old John Lewis at Home store in Mannington Retail Park.

A queue formed on its opening day last Thursday as eager customers wanted to be the first ones to have a look around the revamped two-storey structure.

But one big difference between the big name brand’s old location and its newest branch is causing headaches for some shoppers – there are far fewer parking spaces.

The Great Western Way unit had a dedicated car park with dozens of spaces for visitors while at Mannington, it has to share a smaller area with people who are visiting Marks and Spencer, Next Home, Mamas and Papas, PureGym and Oak Furnitureland.

When the Adver popped over for a look, there was a constant stream of cars driving slowly in loops around the car park searching in vain for an empty space.

Though the store was plenty busy, this parking issue may put off new customers or even some of those who used to regularly go to the old store.

Linzi Sahota-Moore said: “I can’t believe they moved to a retail park with nowhere near enough parking.

“I drove all the way over and, after driving around the car park three times, I left. In future, I’ll use a TK Maxx with a decent sized car park!”

Paul Crook added: “Parking is ridiculous. I won't be shopping there again. Old store was way better. Big mistake.”

Alison Shand said: “I was unable to park and left.”

Lesa Gooch added: “Parking is now an issue there!”

Lisa Kear said: “Even had people who can't park in a disabled spot blocking cars going in and out.”

The Adver has approached TK Maxx for comment about the parking issue.

The John Lewis At Home store closed in July 2020. In April this year, TK Maxx submitted plans to the borough council asking to change the store's signage.

Adverts with the retailer's logo popped up on-site shortly afterwards - and now the place has been transformed into a new shop full of clothes, furniture, and a cafe.

The large Great Western Way unit now stands empty, with all its signage taken down.