Christmas shoppers – buy local and park for free on certain dates

SHOPPERS may be pleased to know there are some upcoming dates where they can park for free in Cheltenham as they go in search of special Christmas gifts.

Cheltenham is an ideal destination for a festive shopping trip with big name town centre retail outlets and plenty of independent shops.

The town offers plenty of places for people to stop and refuel by getting some food and drink along the way. However if you have already managed to do all of your Christmas shopping, you may like to visit the Cheltenham Ice Rink, go and see a family pantomime at the Everyman and Playhouse Theatres throughout the season, or nip to the popular Cheltenham Christmas Arts and Crafts Market from 14 to 23 December on the Promenade.

The free parking is available on the Cheltenham Town Centre East car park on Thursdays on December 7, 14 and 21 from noon until 8pm. The free parking idea came as shopkeepers asked for help to bring customers through their doors.

Cabinet member for finance, assets and regeneration Councillor Peter Jeffries said: “Local shopkeepers have asked what we could do to support the local economy this Christmas and it’s only right that we do what we can to help. This limited free parking offer will coincide with plenty of fun activities during the Christmas shopping period.

“I hope visitors to the town centre will also support our local hospitality industry by popping in for food and drink at local pubs, bars and cafes.’’

Chief executive at Cheltenham BID Heath Gunter added: “We encourage people to take advantage of this offer and support the local businesses.”

For more details on Christmas events and activities in Cheltenham visit: www.visitcheltenham.com/ christmas and for information about alternative transport options to the town centre, including parking, visit www.cheltenham.gov.uk/parking