Shoppers will be able to park free on Saturdays in council car parks across Harborough in the run-up to Christmas

Thousands of festive shoppers will be able to park free on a Saturday in council car parks across Harborough in the run-up to Christmas.

Harborough District Council is offering free parking at weekends to encourage people to go out and boost the local economy amid the devastating Covid-19 pandemic.

Free parking will be available every Saturday on December 5, 12 and 19.

Cllr Phil King, the leader of Harborough council, said: “It has been an extremely challenging year for businesses and shoppers.

“By once again offering free parking I hope it will encourage people to shop locally and invest in the local economy.”

He added: “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 Market Harborough.

Drivers will still need to register their stay.

You 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 four 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

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.

You 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 Sundays and bank holidays.