A local authority in the Midlands has announced it will offer free weekend and Bank Holiday parking at all its managed pay and display car parks this festive season.
The initiative by Newark and Sherwood District Council aims at supporting local businesses and attracting visitors, will run from Sunday November 24 through to Sunday December 29.
This year, the council has expanded the offer to include Saturdays as well as Sundays, coinciding with the Christmas Lights Switch On event.
The free parking will also be available on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Visitors will still need to obtain a ticket from the parking machine but will not be charged during the offer period.
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Visitors will need to still get a parking ticket
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The move is designed to encourage residents to shop locally and support Newark’s independent retailers and town centre during the crucial Christmas trading period.
The free parking initiative covers several car parks managed by the District Council, including those on Appleton Gate, London Road, The Wharf, Riverside, Riverside Arena and Castle House.
Visitors can print a ticket for their intended stay duration at the parking machine without charge. This offer coincides with a range of festive events in Newark, such as the Christmas Lights Switch On, the Palace Theatre pantomime ‘Aladdin’, and the Christmas Market and Traditions alongside the Steampunk Christmas Market.
The council hopes this initiative will encourage families to explore the town’s offerings under the magical Christmas canopy of lights.
Councillor Paul Peacock said: “We want to continue this offer for residents and to take the extra step and further support residents and businesses this Christmas.
“I urge all residents and visitors to Newark to seize this wonderful opportunity, explore our remarkable independent shops, and participate in the exciting events happening this year.”
Meanwhile Councillor Claire Penny added that “it’s great we can launch this initiative yet again and it’s one that we hope will be a huge benefit for many livings and working in the town”.
She explained: “Newark is a fantastic spot for shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, or family outings, so it’s wonderful that we can attract more visitors with this great offer.”
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Darren Bourke, of Masdings Designer Clothes shop on Middle Gate in Newark, welcomed the initiative, stating: “This is fantastic news for shoppers and local businesses alike. It will help to support town centre and High Street businesses to attract more customers in the lead up to Christmas which is a vital time of year for traders.”
He added: “The convenience of parking and visiting the town centre on weekends along with free parking tickets will help bring more visitors and shoppers into our amazing town to experience all that is on offer at this time of year.”
The local business owner’s enthusiasm reflects the potential positive impact of the free parking scheme on Newark’s retail sector during the crucial festive trading period.
The free parking initiative is just one of many ways Newark and Sherwood District Council supports local businesses.
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Free parking initiative covers several car parks managed by the District Council
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The council’s Economic Growth team offers a range of fully funded support services, including one-to-one tailored advice, access to grants and scale-up programmes, and partnerships with Lincoln College and East Midlands Chamber.
Local businesses can also benefit from various workshops, grant finder schemes, and advice on business rates.
These initiatives aim to foster economic growth in the district and provide comprehensive support to entrepreneurs and established businesses alike.
