Small businesses have been the hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic, making Small Business Saturday this year more vital than ever.
And as lockdown lifts, and the city enters tier 3 restrictions, Derby City Council are offering free parking at their Chapel Street and Assembly Rooms car parks on Saturday 5th December, to enable workers and local shoppers to travel and shop 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.
The national event, first held in the UK in 2013, aims to encourage people to ‘shop local’ and support small independent businesses in their communities and provide a boost in the lead up to Christmas.
Councillor Matthew Holmes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration and Transportation said:
“This year, more than ever, it really is important that we continue to support our highs streets and small businesses, that are vital to our local communities, and also celebrate the valuable contribution the independent retailers make to our city.
There are some wonderful independent businesses here in Derby, and this is just one small way we can help to support them.
If you are coming into the city centre, then I would encourage you to do so on foot, or bike, if you can, and come at a quieter time of day. 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.”
To learn more about Small Business Saturday visit their website.