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Â鶹ÊÓƵ is spreading a little early Christmas cheer with free parking throughout December.

Council-owned car parks in South Shields town centre will be free of charge after 3pm on weekdays and all day on Saturdays and Sundays for the whole month.

The initiative aims to support businesses and traders, in line with the council's key priorities to create the conditions for recovery and investment, and to support town centres, high streets and hospitality.

Cllr Mark Walsh, Lead Member for Regeneration and Economy, said: "This scheme will benefit both shoppers and traders; the festive period is an expensive time so every little helps.

"Many of our businesses, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors, are still feeling the effects of Covid.

"One of our key priorities is to support our high streets, so just as we did over the summer months, we're introducing free parking again to help boost the local economy.

"We've listened to feedback and this year, we've extended the offer to include Saturdays to give people an added incentive to visit the town centre and the market, pick up some Christmas shopping or have a bite to eat."

Seasonal celebrations across the Borough are always spectacular and this year will be no exception, with a packed programme of events and activities on offer. For further information, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/christmas

For more information about town centre car parks, visit /article/38111/South-Shields-Town-Centre-car-parks