Hambleton District Council has announced there will be free parking in all its car parks from December 3 until January 3.
In a move the council hopes will encourage people to shop local in the build up to Christmas, Hambleton District Council (HDC) has taken the decision to suspend the charges.
Although HDC usually offer some free festive parking opportunities, this year is the first time free parking will be provided for such an extended period.
Leader of the council, Councillor Mark Robson said: “It’s fair to say 2020 has been tough for everyone, with many people feeling the strain financially as a result of the COVID pandemic.
“As council Leader I want to try and support our residents and businesses in anyway I can to enjoy the festive season as much as possible after what’s been such a difficult year.
“Suspending parking charges for a month in the build up to and immediately after Christmas will, I hope, encourage shoppers to use the fantastic shops, restaurants and cafes our market towns offer for both Christmas shopping and festive trips out.
“Of course it’s important I point out, at this moment in time, none of us know what tier Hambleton will fall into when the tiered restrictions are reintroduced after 2 December, but I want to be prepared and to make sure our market towns have the best opportunity to welcome shoppers and visitors should they be allowed to fully open up again in the lead up to Christmas.
“Offering the free parking is a small way of showing our support for our residents and businesses in a year when they need it most.”
The free festive parking will apply to more than 900 car parking bays across the district council’s car parks.
Parking time limits still apply in our dedicated ‘short stay only’ car parks at Market Place Thirsk, Applegarth short stay and Forum short stay in Northallerton.
The council no longer manages Crosby Road car park in Northallerton therefore this car park is not subject to free parking.
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