Free car parking to continue across Wakefield district after Christmas
Two hours of free parking will continue at Wakefield Council car parks across the district after the Christmas period.
The council confirmed the decision as a way to boost the economy after consultation with residents and businesses.
Matthew Morley, the council’s cabinet member for planning and highways, said: “Anyone coming into our city and town centres can get at least two hours free parking.
"And it’s not just for Christmas – this offer will continue to support our local businesses and our residents.
“Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive since we launched two-hours free parking last month, with people telling us how much they value support like this.
"And how it’s making it easier to spend time in our city and towns.
“It’s making a positive difference to our businesses and residents. So, you can continue to count on us to keep it in place as part of our package of support for the local economy.”
The parking plan includes council owned off street car parks in the city centre, Castleford, Pontefract, Ossett, Normanton and South Elmsall.
It does not include parking at Merchant Gate and in the country parks at Newmillerdam, Anglers and Pugneys.
The council hopes offering free two-hour parking will boost local businesses in towns and cities by increasing footfall and encouraging longer visits.
The local authority is providing more than £1 million of funding to help businesses improve their shops and increase security
It has also confirmed that pavement cafe licences remain free.