Free parking could once again be available in council-run car parks in Beverley and on-street parking locations for the three weekends running up to Christmas, subject to approval by East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Cabinet.
If agreed, pay and display machines in these locations will be clearly marked to let shoppers preparing for the festive season know there is no charge for the weekends of 5-6, 12-13 and 19-20 December.
The start of the scheme would once again coincide with ‘Small Business Saturday’ a national day that aims to promote the importance of small and independent traders.
Councillor Stephen Parnaby OBE, leader of the council, said: “Thanks to its prudent financial management, the council has run this very popular scheme for the past five years and, subject to approval at next week’s meeting of cabinet, aims to run it for a sixth year.
“Free parking has real and tangible benefits for local businesses and for residents and it is quite fitting that the first day would once again fall on Small Business Saturday, a national initiative that this authority is delighted to support.
“The East Riding is home to some of the most vibrant and diverse market towns in the country and suspending parking charges in the run up to Christmas is a practical way for this council to help boost the local economy.”
Julian Minshall, chair of the Beverley & District Chamber of Trade and director of Indicoll, said:
“The run up to Christmas is an important time for the High Street and businesses in Beverley. With the introduction of free parking coinciding with Small Business Saturday, we welcome any incentive to help increase footfall in the area.
“Visitors will see major changes around the historic market town and free parking will be welcomed to allow shoppers to spend more time exploring what is new and experiencing everything Beverley has to offer, making it a destination to stay and enjoy.”
If approved, all council car parks will be free on Saturday 5, 12 and 19 and Sunday 6, 13 and 20 December, from 8am on Saturday until 8am on Monday.
Normal parking rules would still apply, such as those around disabled parking bays and maximum stays.
