Free parking on Saturdays in run up to Christmas

Harborough District Council is offering free parking at weekends to encourage people to shop in the district to boost the local economy.

The free parking will be available every Saturday on 5, 12, and 19 December 2020.

The Government has indicated that following the period of national lockdown, due to end on Wednesday 2 December 2020, non-essential retail can reopen.

Cllr Phil King, Leader of Harborough District Council, said: “It has been an extremely challenging year for businesses and shoppers and by once again offering free parking I hope it will encourage people to shop locally and invest in the local economy. Following another period of national lockdown, retailers need support from residents; we hope this initiative will get tills ringing as it has in previous years.”   

The initiative will run on the same basis as last year enabling shoppers to park for free for up to four hours in short stay car parks, and all day in long stay car parks in Lutterworth and Harborough.

Drivers will still need to register their stay and can simply do this through the Pay by Phone App or by getting a free ticket from the pay and display machines. Drivers do not have to enter their registration number.

Free parking will be available in the following Council-owned car parks:

Short stay car parks (up to 4 hours) in Market Harborough:

• Sainsbury’s
• St Mary’s Road West
• Symington Way
• Mill Hill Road
• King’s Head Place
• Doddridge Road Short Stay
• The Commons
• Market Hall

Long stay car parks in Market Harborough:

• Springfield Street
• St Mary’s Road East
• Symington Recreation Ground
• Doddridge Road Long Stay
• Angel Street

Long stay car parks in Lutterworth:

• Chapel Street
• Church Close
• George Street
• Station Road

Blue Badge holders should set their display clock on arrival at the car park, as normal, and will be permitted four hours free parking in short stay car parks, and all day free parking in long stay car parks, without the need to get a pay and display ticket.

Council owned car parks are already free to use after 6pm Monday to Saturday, on Sunday and bank holidays.