THURROCK Council has announced that it is to offer residents and shoppers the opportunity to use parking spaces in the borough for free in the build-up to Christmas.

Today (Wednesday, 25 November), the council announced that it will offer free car parking every Saturday in December to support businesses during the festive season. The initiative, which starts on Saturday, 5 December, includes all council-owned car parks and pay and display on-street parking.

Cllr Ben Maney, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "I'm pleased that we have been able to yet again offer free parking in our car parks in the run-up to the festive season, with many of our local businesses and retail shops preparing to reopen on Wednesday, 2 December when national lockdown measures come to an end.

"Our high street shops and local businesses have faced many challenges over the past nine months, unlike anything they have seen before. This initiative, which is being implemented for the fourth consecutive year, helps us to support local businesses when they need it most. Free parking will make it easier for residents to shop locally and boost our local economy, and I encourage everyone to please support your local high street when doing your Christmas gift shopping this year.

"It is important that we continue to act responsibly while socially distancing to decrease the risk to yourself and to others. To 'Shop Safe' make sure to follow social distancing advice, wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitiser and wear a face covering in both indoor and enclosed public spaces unless you are exempt."

For more information about parking in Thurrock, click here.

The goodwill appears to have been somewhat dissipated by the owners of Grays Shopping Centre, who have recently removed their free three hours parking offer in the multi-storey car park, who have changed the free three hour parking officer and are now charging motorists to park there. This has caused considerable angst on local social media pages!