Christmas shopping - and parking - all wrapped up

Published on 28 November 2023

With Christmas now just a few short weeks away, free parking is being offered on District Council car parks to give shoppers and businesses a boost over the festive season.

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is offering free parking in its car parks to encourage people to support local businesses and shop local.

In Biddulph parking is free on Friday 1 December, and Saturdays 16 and 23 December.

The free dates in Cheadle are Saturdays 2, 9 and 16 December.

In Leek parking will be free on Saturdays 2, 9, 16 and 23 December.

Councillor Charlotte Atkins, Cabinet Member for Services, said: "Christmas preparations are now well and truly underway and it's a busy time of year for everyone.

"We want to support our residents, our towns and our local businesses during this period so we're delighted to, once again, offer free parking in Biddulph, Cheadle and Leek.

"Shopping local makes a big difference to our traders, hospitality and leisure businesses - and this time of year is so important to them. That's why we're encouraging people to make the Moorlands their festive first choice for buying their Christmas gifts and treats and meeting up with friends and family to celebrate the season."

Whilst parking is free, other regulations, such as how long you can park for, will apply.

The first Saturday in December is also Small Business Saturday - an annual event now in its eleventh year - which champions the High Street to encourage people to shop small.

Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Matt Swindlehurst, added: "There are so many excellent small and independent businesses in our District who need our year-round support to continue to thrive.

"Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity for people to actively show their support for the businesses in their local community and to celebrate the variety and diversity they enjoy on their doorstep."