Shoppers may get 10 days of free parking before and during Christmas and the New Year.

Dover District Council's cabinet is being asked to waive the fees at the authority's car parks on Saturday, December 4, usually a busy Christmas shopping day.

The same is being asked for December 23 to 28 and January 1 to 3.

An officers' report to the councillors, who meet next Monday, said: "The decision to provide free Christmas parking on the dates as specified will support local businesses and help to promote shopping in the district’s town centres.

"This initiative has had a positive impact in previous years and has been well received by both local businesses and their customers.

"This has presented many benefits to local town centres whilst having minimal impact on the council’s purse."

The report adds: "With many retailers now gearing up for the festive season, DDC wants more people to recognise the value, quality and choice that local, independent traders provide."

On-street parking charges will still apply and all other restrictions, such as yellow lines, will continue to be enforced throughout the district.

December 4 was chosen because it is Small Business Saturday, which is designed to raise the profile of small enterprises across the UK.

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