In a bid to help boost the local economy, Derby City Council are continuing their support to local businesses in the run up to Christmas, by offering free parking to local residents and workers in some of the city centre car parks.
Free parking will be available from Monday 20th December, until midnight on Thursday at Chapel Street car park, and each evening from 5pm until midnight Monday to Thursday at the Assembly Rooms car park, to enable workers and local shoppers to travel and do their last minute Christmas shopping safely.
Residents are encouraged however, to shop at quieter times, and to not travel into the city at peak times, to stay within their own household bubble, and maintain social distancing guidelines at all times. They are also encouraged to regularly wash their hands and, if this isn’t possible to use hand sanitiser to help keep themselves and their friends and family safe at this time.
Councillor Matthew Holmes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration and Transportation said:
“This year, more than ever, the run up to Christmas is crucial for the city’s high street and it really is important that we encourage people to shop local. Despite national lockdowns and restrictions, many of our city’s businesses have adapted to provide a safer shopping experience.
If you are coming into the city centre then, where possible, visit on foot or by bike, and if you are travelling by car, only car share with people from your household bubble.
We all have a part to play in keeping everybody safe, and reducing the spread of the virus, so please maintain social distancing at all times and adhere to national guidelines.
And finally, after what has been a very difficult year, I would like to wish you all, a very merry Christmas and all the best for 2021”
Martin Langsdale, Chair of Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) added:
"Cathedral Quarter BID were delighted to work with Derby City Council on these parking initiatives and we hope this will provide some support to city centre businesses after what has been a difficult year for all. We would like to extend a warm welcome to visitors to the area and assure them that businesses continue to work hard to make their visit a safe and pleasant experience.’