Free parking at Town Centre East for Christmas shopping in Cheltenham

Shoppers can enjoy free parking at Cheltenham’s Town Centre East car park when they visit Cheltenham for shopping in the run up to Christmas.

The council is supporting shopping locally, offering free parking on Thursdays on 7, 14 and 21 December.

Parking will be free of charge from 12noon until 8pm - when the car park is locked for the night - at the multi storey Town Centre East just off the high street near the Strand.

Cheltenham is the perfect destination for a festive shopping trip with big name town centre retail outlets and plenty of independent shops as well as a variety of highly rated food and drink venues. The town is also hosting a wide range of events including Cheltenham Ice Rink, family pantomimes at the Everyman and Playhouse Theatres throughout the season, and the popular Cheltenham Christmas Arts and Crafts Market from 14 to 23 December on the Promenade.

Cllr Peter Jeffries, cabinet member for finance, assets and regeneration, said: “Local shopkeepers have asked what we could do to support the local economy this Christmas and it’s only right that we do what we can to help. This limited free parking offer will coincide with plenty of fun activities during the Christmas shopping period.

“I hope visitors to the town centre will also support our local hospitality industry by popping in for food and drink at local pubs, bars and cafes.’’

Heath Gunter, chief executive at Cheltenham BID, continued: “Christmas is such an important time of the year for the retail and hospitality sector, and everyone is feeling the squeeze right now. We encourage people to take advantage of this offer and support the local businesses.”

Paul Jones, executive director of finance, assets and regeneration, continued: “We are proud of our vibrant high street shops and retailers. We’re pleased that we can once again work with them to offer valued free parking to our residents and visitors.”

For more details on Christmas events and activities in Cheltenham view our Christmas guide and for information about alternative transport options to the town centre, including parking, visit the Cheltenham Borough Council website.