Ashford Borough Council to Provide Free Parking for Holiday Shoppers

A council located in Kent has announced its intention to once again make all of its car parks free for specific periods leading up to Christmas, with the aim of encouraging local shopping. Ashford Borough Council confirmed that complimentary parking would be accessible in both Ashford and Tenterden town centres to support local businesses. This free parking will be available all day on December 7, 8, 14, and 15. Simon Betty, the council’s portfolio holder for commercial property and investment, stated: “In addition to the free parking available throughout the year, I hope that these four days of all day free parking will help residents to make some extra savings during their festive shop.” He further added: “Buying locally helps to support our town centre shops and those who work in them, in turn helping to boost our local economy.” Separately, Folkestone and Hythe District Council is also implementing free parking in its car parks on the three Saturdays preceding Christmas.