There will be free parking in Maldon town centre car parks from 2pm each Thursday in the run up to Christmas and beyond.

Maldon District Council announced today (Tuesday, 17 November) is pleased to announce that - subject to a change in the national restrictions ending on 2 December- there will be free parking in all public town centre car parks from 2pm on the following Thursdays: 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 December, then 7 and 14 January.

Councillor Wendy Stamp, leader of Maldon District Council, said; "Being able to offer free parking on Thursday afternoons in the run up to Christmas and in the New Year is a great start to my term as Independent leader of the council.

"We are all acutely aware that coronavirus has had a devastating effect on all of the businesses in the district, and particularly our high street retail, hospitality and services.

"I am pleased that we have developed an excellent working relationship with the High Street businesses and I hope that by offering free parking it will go some way to support them over this difficult period.

"It will enable residents and visitors to the town to shop local and shop safely in a more relaxed atmosphere with some shops remaining open later in the evening on a Thursday. I encourage everyone to "keep it local" this year."

More information is available on the Visit Maldon District website here.

Allison Gray, Chairman of Maldon Business Board and owner of Willow and Fox said; "The Maldon Business Board wholeheartedly supports the seven free half days of parking which the Council have offered.

"This provides a good balance, supporting local businesses while spreading out demand for parking over the Christmas and importantly New Year period. Local businesses have worked hard to provide safe shopping experiences and we would like to thank the council for working with us during this year. We look forward to wishing all our returning customers a Merry Christmas and safe New Year."