Free weekend parking for Christmas shoppers

In response to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on city centre businesses, Hull City Council is offering limited free weekend parking in its three multi-storey car parks in the run-up to Christmas.

Between now and Christmas, parking will be free every weekend from 10am to 4pm at the multi-storey car parks in Osborne Street, Pryme Street and George Street, to encourage residents to shop locally.

This means charges will be suspended on 1,450 car parking spaces across the city centre. No ticket or purchase is required.

On-street parking and all other car parks are still chargeable seven days a week.

Osborne Street multi-storey car park offers electric charging points for up to six vehicles.

Shoppers are also encouraged to make use of bicycle parking in the city centre, including the R-evolution bike hub in Trinity Market and the storage facilities at Hull Paragon Interchange.

Visitors to the city are reminded of the Priory Park and Ride, which is open Monday to Saturday from 7am-7pm, providing 650 parking spaces, with buses departing every 20 minutes.

Councillor Dean Kirk, portfolio holder for transportation, roads and highways, said: “We’re delighted to be offering free parking over the festive period, and hope this encourages people to shop local for Christmas this year.

“Supporting our local businesses is more crucial than ever, and whether you do this by car, bike or foot, every little helps.”

Public transport is another way for people to travel into the city centre, with more-efficient bus services since the introduction of all-day bus lanes. Stagecoach East Midlands says journey times are 9 per cent shorter.