Plans for free Christmas weekend parking unveiled

The council hopes the parking offer will encourage more people to shop locally

Shoppers will be offered free weekend parking in part of Nottinghamshire in the run-up to Christmas.

The offer will apply to all council-owned pay and display car parks in Newark from 24 November - the day of the town's Christmas lights switch-on - until 29 December.

Newark and Sherwood District Council said free parking would also be available on bank holidays during the festive period.

It is hoped the offer will encourage people to shop locally, the authority said.

Motorists will still need a ticket which shows how long they intend to stay, but there will be no charge.

Paul Peacock, leader of the council, said: "I urge all residents and visitors to Newark to seize this wonderful opportunity, explore our remarkable independent shops, and participate in the exciting events happening this year."

As well as the lights, Newark will host a Steampunk Christmas Market on 7 and 8 December.

The council-managed car parks offering free parking include those located on Appleton Gate, London Road, The Wharf, Riverside, Riverside Arena and Castle House.