Free parking in run-up to Christmas

East Riding of Yorkshire Council Roadside parking signs mounted on a pole. The upper sign has the text "Pay at machine". The larger lower sign shows a "P" symbol and the words "Long stay".  There is greenery in the background.East Riding of Yorkshire Council
The council has offered free parking in the run-up to Christmas for the past 17 years

Free weekend parking at council car parks across East Yorkshire in the run-up to Christmas will help ease pressures for shoppers and benefit businesses, a councillor has said.

Councillor Nick Coultish, East Riding Council's cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism, said the scheme would help support local businesses and residents facing continued cost of living pressures.

Parking charges will be suspended at East Riding of Yorkshire Council car parks across four weekends from 28 and 29 November to 19 and 20 December between 08:00 on Saturday to 08:00 GMT on Monday.

Normal parking charges would remain in place on all other dates, including 26 and 27 December.

Coultish said it was important to support local businesses and residents, especially at Christmas.

"It's a great scheme that we're proud to reintroduce because it supports local businesses. It helps get people out and about in their local high streets and town centres."

He said the scheme would also help local businesses compete with larger shopping centres over the festive period.

The second weekend of free parking coincides with Small Business Saturday, a national campaign that encourages people to support small local businesses.

Notices will also be displayed in all locations to remind motorists there is no charge.

The Beverley Festival of Christmas celebrates its 30th anniversary on Sunday 13 December.

Organised by the council, it will feature a parade and more than 120 stalls, which will be spread across the town.

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