Council Introduces Free Bus Services to Encourage Holiday Shopping in Surrey Towns

In the period leading up to Christmas, complimentary bus services will be available across a Surrey region, aiming to motivate consumers to frequent local commercial areas. Waverley Borough Council, in collaboration with Hoppa, is providing these no-cost bus services within and surrounding the towns of Farnham, Godalming, Cranleigh, and Haslemere. These complimentary services are scheduled to run daily from 09:30 GMT to 14:30, commencing on 16 December and concluding on Christmas Eve. Liz Townsend, who holds the portfolio for planning and economic development at the council, stated: “Christmas is a very important time for our local retailers, who put so much effort into making our high streets really sparkle at this time of year.” Individuals wishing to use the free bus service can register via Hoppa’s website or by contacting them by phone. Additionally, complimentary parking will be available in council-operated car parks after 15:00 on Fridays in Farnham and Godalming. Similar free parking will be offered on 4 December in Cranleigh and on 12 December in Haslemere. The Farnham Business Improvement District (BID) will also finance free parking within the town starting from 15:00 on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout December, with the exception of Christmas Eve. Ms Townsend encouraged residents, saying: “Shop local and help to keep our town and village centres thriving.”