Shoppers, visitors and residents will be able to enjoy two hours’ free parking at two Loughborough Council-owned car parks in the run-up to Christmas as part of a scheme to support the town centre and local businesses.
Charnwood Borough Council is running the offer at Granby Street and Beehive Lane car parks from 2 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.
The scheme aims to encourage more people to visit the town centre during the busy festive period and support retailers, the hospitality sector, market traders and other businesses.
Cllr Jewel Miah, Leader of the Council, said: “Our prudent management of the Council’s finances has allowed us to bring forward this offer to help residents at a time when household budgets are under pressure, while also supporting town centre businesses.”
Cllr Liz Blackshaw, the Council’s Lead Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods which includes responsibility for car parks, said: “We know the weeks leading up to Christmas are incredibly important for Loughborough town centre businesses and we hope this offer will encourage more people to visit.
“We are committed to supporting local businesses and helping our local economy thrive. This initiative is another way we are showing that commitment by making it easier for people to visit the town centre and enjoy everything it has to offer.”
Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s Lead Member for Economic Development, Regeneration and Town Centres, said: “Loughborough has a fantastic mix of independent businesses, national retailers, cafés, restaurants and attractions, so it is great that we can help encourage more people to visit the town centre.
“This year alone we are investing almost £1 million in our town centre car parks and delivering a programme of events which attracts thousands of visitors. That’s in addition to operating the Town Hall, museum and markets, which all help bring people into the town centre.
“Supporting businesses and growing our local economy are key priorities for the Council.”
The parking offer will be available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, throughout the promotional period. Any stay longer than two hours will incur the full parking charge for the entire visit, including the initial two-hour period.
The Council says the offer aims to allow as many people as possible to take advantage of it.
