FREE CHRISTMAS PARKING

Erewash Borough Council is giving the festive gift of free parking this holiday season to encourage residents to shop locally at the borough’s markets and independent businesses. Parking will be free in all car parks in the borough every day after 10am, starting on Saturday 10th December 2022. The final date of free parking is Monday 2nd January 2023, with normal parking charges resuming on Tuesday 3rd January. The Christmas free parking scheme does not include the car park at Long Eaton Train Station.  

The scheme aims to encourage residents and visitors to buy their Christmas gifts at local independent shops and at the historic Ilkeston and Long Eaton markets which are held between 9am and 3pm on Thursday and Saturdays in Ilkeston, and Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in Long Eaton. Erewash has many local trades perfect for seasonal shopping, from butchers with the ideal Christmas dinner centrepiece to stationary shops for the best festive cards and wrapping paper. Residents can also use the free parking as a brilliant opportunity to see the Christmas lights which will make the town centres shine throughout the winter months.

 Councillor Michael Powell, Lead Member for Regeneration and Planning, says:  “Over the last few years, the importance of shopping local has become more prevalent with people moving away from large shopping centres. The free Christmas parking allows even more residents to support local people with independent businesses within the Erewash community. We are also aware that the Christmas season is an expensive and difficult time for many, especially in the current financial climate – free parking is one way we can try to make this time a little easier and spread some Christmas joy.”