Gwynedd Council will be introducing free parking in all its car parks in the run-up to Christmas.
As part of its efforts to support the county’s businesses during the recession, Gwynedd Council will provide free parking from December 19 to January 3 to encourage residents to shop locally and take advantage of the variety of Christmas gifts on offer here in Gwynedd.
Gwynedd Council Leader, Councillor Dyfed Edwards said: “More and more people are waking up to the benefits of shopping locally, and Christmas is the perfect time to back local businesses and to find all kinds of unique gift ideas.
“Small shops and businesses are the cornerstones of the Gwynedd economy, and we know that many are facing difficulties during this challenging period.
“Last Christmas we operated a free parking scheme and we received very positive feedback from shopkeepers and businesses from all over Gwynedd who told us that it certainly helped to attract more shoppers into town centres over the festive period.
“I know that this decision will play a part in helping shops and businesses to have a successful Christmas again this year.”
Councillor Gareth Roberts, who leads on the Environment for Gwynedd Council added:
“Ensuring that Gwynedd businesses are best placed during difficult times is vital so that we can maintain a strong local economy.
“We hope that this support along with the continued efforts of the county’s business sector will mean that shoppers from near and far will back Gwynedd’s shops and businesses during the Christmas period.”
Geraint Hughes, joint owner of the Bwtri shops in Pwllheli and Porthmadog, said: “I welcome this relief on parking charges, I’m sure it will encourage people to shop locally. There is a wide range of shops in Gwynedd’s towns where you can buy very different gifts.”
Debra Harris, chair of the Discover Dolgellau tourism group, noted: “Gwynedd Council’s free car parking initiative is a real boost to town centre businesses at a time when retail competition is at its most fierce. Shopping locally is good for the economy, the environment and is a great way of fostering community relationships as well as discovering unique foods, crafts and other products not available in the supermarkets.”
Rob Clarke, chairman of the Bangor Business Group and manager of Debenhams in the city, added: “This is good news for all the shops and businesses in Bangor as it will encourage people to support their local high street this Christmas.”
