FREE parking will be introduced in Chester on a number of specified days.

It is hoped the move by Chester BID will help consumers in the run-up to Christmas.

Visitors can now park for free at Chester Racecourse each weekend from Saturday, November 26, until Christmas Eve.

Carl Critchlow, CEO of Chester BID, who has funded the scheme said the move was to help shoppers save money in the run-up to Christmas."

He added: “We are delighted to be able to support city visitors by taking the cost and hassle out of parking over the busy Christmas shopping weekends.

“By funding free parking, we can help make a day out in Chester more affordable for those travelling to the city by car, a key concern for our businesses and their customers at such an important time of year.”

Free parking is just one of the initiatives that Chester BID is supporting over the festive season, with others including the funding of the 12 days of Christmas Parade on Thursday, November 24, and the Christmas lights on Foregate Street, St Werburgh Street, Love Street and Pepper Street.

As part of the Christmas offer in the city, many of the stores will be offering late-night shopping each Thursday, beginning on November 17th. Shoppers can find out selected opening times on the BID website: www.experiencechester.co.uk/latenightchester 

Mr Critchlow added: “There really are so many reasons to choose Chester as your place to shop, celebrate and enjoy the Christmas period. As well as its charming surroundings, there is so much to do and see here. We can’t wait to welcome you!” 

*You can park for free at Chester Racecourse (CH1 2LY) on the following dates: 

November: 26 & 27

December: 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18 and 24.