Free parking bid to boost Christmas trade

Councillors agreed this week to waive the charges in an attempt to boost footfall in the festive period.

Shoppers will be able to park for free at Rotherham Borough Council car parks from November 17.

A key recommendation of the Mary Portas High Street Review was for authorities to introduce parking initiatives to boost trade.

A lack of free parking has been a frequent criticism of the town centre especially as it is offered at rival shopping retail spots Parkgate Shopping and Meadowhall.

The council will contribute £28,000 from its Rotherham Economic Regeneration Fund to cover the freebie, which runs until December 22.

The 700-space Rotherham Interchange car park is also set to reopen in time for the festive period once the bridge has been replaced.