Free parking offer to attract festive shoppers

Buxton Market Place is one of the High Peak Borough Council-owned car parks that will be free every Saturday in December

A Derbyshire council is offering free parking in all of its car parks on every Saturday in December in a bid to bolster Christmas trade.

High Peak Borough Council says the initiative aims to support shoppers and businesses in the busy build-up to Christmas and New Year.

Parking will also be free for Christmas lights switch-on events in Buxton on 16 November, Glossop on 23 November and New Mills on 30 November.

However, the council said there would still be restrictions on how long people can park for.

Deputy council leader Damien Greenhalgh said: "The festive season is fast approaching and we know that offering free parking is always welcomed by our residents and visitors and gives our businesses and seasonal events a boost.

"So I'm delighted to announce that we'll be providing that again this year.

"The High Peak has a wealth of shops, restaurants and visitor attractions and the festive season is a very important period for them.

"We hope the added bonus of free parking will encourage more people to make our borough their first choice for buying gifts and treats and socialising with family and friends this year."