PARKING charges across Wirral will be lifted at certain times next month in support of local high streets.
The move on Small Business Saturday (December 2) aims to help local shops and businesses at one of the busiest times of the year as they gear up for Christmas.
In addition, in areas where there are council car parks, they will be made “free after 3” on key dates to support local Christmas celebration events.
Small Business Saturday UK is a campaign which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support the businesses in their communities.
The day itself takes place on the first Saturday in December each year – this year it takes place on December 2 – but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses.
Some small businesses take part in the day by hosting events and offering discounts.
The leader of Wirral Council, Cllr Paul Stuart, said: “I know recent years have seen small businesses face once in a lifetime disruption and yet many of them have played a crucial role in our communities, supporting their customers and often going above and beyond.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to show those businesses how much we appreciate them, recognise their importance to our communities and the continuing vitality of our high streets, and is a great chance to give them more support and remind ourselves to make better use of them.”
As well as free parking for Small Business Saturday the council will also be offering free parking after 3pm at a number of locations across the borough where there are council car parks or on street charges to support their festive high street events including switching on Christmas lights.
These include: • West Kirby: Christmas lights switch on – free parking in council car parks after 3pm on Saturday November 18 • Heswall: Christmas lights switch-on – free parking in council car parks after 3pm on Sunday November 26 • Liscard – free parking in council car parks after 3pm on Thursday November 30 for late night shopping event, street vendors and entertainers.
Notices will be placed on the car park machines at these locations and backboards to indicate the dates when parking is free.
