Festive parking boost for shoppers

The scheme is designed to give a boost to local businesses and help residents save money.

Charges will be suspended from December 12 until, and including, Christmas Eve at all council-owned car parks in Leyland and Lostock Hall from 10am each day, allowing visitors to stock up on all their festive favourites without having to pay a penny to park.

Parking will also be free on December 3 as the council backs local companies on Small Business Saturday - a national initiative aimed at encouraging people to shop local and support small businesses in their communities. Dozens of companies based across the borough are taking part and offering special promotions on the day. And parking will be free for the Lostock Hall Christmas Market on December 4.

Coun Graham Walton, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “We are thrilled to be backing small businesses and hope Small Business Saturday is a huge success.”

Wyre Council is making its pay and display car parks free on Small Business Saturday and Preston is expected to announce parking offers this week.