Christmas shopping - and parking - all wrapped up

Published on 30 November 2023

Parking will be free again this year on every Saturday in December in all Borough Council car parks to give shoppers and businesses a boost over the festive season.

High Peak Borough Council is offering free parking in its pay and display car parks on Saturdays 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 December to encourage people to support local businesses and shop local.

Deputy Leader of the Council, Damien Greenhalgh, 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 every Saturday in December.

"Shopping local benefits us all and makes a big difference to our fabulous local  traders, hospitality and leisure businesses - and this time of year is so important to them. That's why we're encouraging people to make High Peak 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 December free parking dates come after the Council also suspended charges for the Christmas lights switch-on events in Buxton and Glossop, with New Mills this coming Saturday.

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.

Councillor Greenhalgh added: "There are so many excellent small and independent businesses in our Borough 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."