Shoppers in the Vale of White Horse are being given a helping hand to buy local this Christmas.
People that can’t come into their local businesses and shopping areas by walking, cycling or public transport can take advantage of free parking at the district council’s car parks on some Saturdays in the run up to Christmas. Where possible, the council is asking people to car share to help reduce congestion and local air pollution.
Starting on 26 November and running until 17 December, free car parking is being provided at various sites in Abingdon, Faringdon and Wantage, by the Vale of White Horse District Council, to encourage people to visit their independent shops for Christmas gifts to help support local businesses.
Free Christmas parking days also means people won’t have to pay to park if they wish to catch up with friends and family in the great pubs, cafés and restaurants found across the district’s towns during the festive period.
Drivers will be able to park for free in local car parks on these following Saturdays:
- Abingdon 26 November, 3 and 10 December
-
Faringdon 3,10 and 17 December
-
Wantage 3,10 and 17 December
The free parking days allocated to each town are agreed with the individual town councils depending on which day would best suit local traders. On the above days there’s no need to display a ticket, however maximum stay times still apply in specific car parks. People can find out more information on all the car parks from the council’s website – www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/carparks
Cllr Sally Povolotsky, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency and Environment at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “We urge everyone to walk, cycle or use public transport where possible, however, we recognise that being a largely rural district some of our residents will need to use their cars to drive into town to do their Christmas shopping.
“Christmas gives us the ideal opportunity to visit our great selection of independent traders offering original gifts, many of which are made or sourced locally. Shopping at our local independents is particularly important this time of year as many have been adversely affected by the pandemic and are now facing tough economic times ahead.”