Shoppers will be able to park for free in Stafford and Stone town centre on two key days in the run up to Christmas. 

The traditional free parking offer aims to encourage more people to shop in town centres to boost trade for local businesses over the festive season. 

Parking charges have been waived for Stafford Borough Council car parks from 1pm Saturday (17 December) and from the same time on Christmas Eve. The free parking period applies to all borough council run car parks in the town centres - except the Riverside and Waterfront car parks in Stafford. 

There will be festive activities in Victoria Park in the run up to Christmas Day including Santa’s Grotto and live music. There are also specialist markets in the towns, the popular Christmas Tree Festival at Stafford’s St Mary’s Church and the chance to win prizes in a treasure trail supported by lots of local businesses. 

Councillor Frances Beatty, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Planning, said: “These traditional free parking afternoons have always proved popular with shoppers and retailers in the run up to Christmas Day. We will also have some great entertainment in our award-winning Victoria Park – all the more reason to come to the county town. 

“We know that Stone is known far and wide as the food and drink capital of the county and is always an attractive place to carry out some shopping then relax with something to eat and drink.” 

She added: “More than ever before our businesses need a boost after another very challenging year for them and I hope people will support their local traders.” 

The announcement comes hot on the heels of the council’s cabinet approving a freeze on car parking charges for next year in a move they hope will help footfall in the town centres to support local businesses. 

Mary Walker, Chair of Stafford Town Centre Partnership, said: “I’m really pleased that we can offer free parking to residents and visitors on these key dates for our retailers in the run up to Christmas.   

“These are extremely difficult times for many of our residents and businesses with the increases in the cost of living affecting us all. Our businesses need the support of local people to help them continue trading and hopefully thrive. This festive period will be a crucial time for many of them.” 

A list of Stafford Borough Council run car parks can be found be found at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/carparks 

More information on where and how you can use cash-free parking is available at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/cash-free-parking 

Press Release No 5975