CHRISTMAS shoppers will be able to park for free in council car parks in the run-up to the festive period.

Gwynedd Council will scrap its usual car parking fees to encourage people to shop locally this Christmas

As part of efforts to support local businesses this Christmas, the council is offering free parking in its car parks from 11 to 28 December.

The council is urging the people of Gwynedd to make the most of the offer and to take advantage of the variety of wonderful products available from the county’s shops and businesses in the run up to Christmas.

Cllr Gareth Griffith, cabinet member for environment said: “The Covid period has been very difficult for the business community and the council hopes that this campaign in the run-up to Christmas will give Gwynedd companies a welcome boost.

“By shopping locally, rather than travelling for miles and getting stuck in traffic jams, you are not only helping local traders but you’re also helping the environment. Of course, the shopping experience remains a little different and we urge everyone to keep a social distance and to wear a mask in any shop or indoor public place to keep our communities safe.”

Cllr Gareth Thomas, cabinet member for the economy and community added: “Christmas is a very important time for many traders in Gwynedd, with the county’s shops and businesses offering a wide range of goods and gift ideas.

“High street businesses and local traders are vital to the county’s economy, and as a council we are keen to do everything we can to support them.

“We hope the free parking scheme will encourage more people to support Gwynedd’s shops in the run up to Christmas and we urge Gwynedd residents to support their local businesses.”