Last-minute shoppers and people visiting their loved ones in Hounslow and Brent will be delighted to learn there is free parking over the festive period.

Hounslow council has decided to once again in the spirit of Christmas suspend parking charges in parts of the borough.

Starting on Christmas Eve (December 24) there will be no charges in council controlled paid-for parking spaces on-street and in car parks.

On Boxing Day (December 26), Tuesday (December 27) and Monday (January 2), Bank Holiday restrictions will apply.

Normal charges will be in effect between Wednesday (December 28), and on New Year's Eve on Saturday (December 31).

However, motorists are warned that other parking restrictions such as double yellow lines will still be enforced.

Councillor Amrit Mann, deputy leader of Hounslow Council, said: “This is just a small gesture from us so that residents and shoppers can get those last minute presents on Christmas Eve that they need and also be able to get to relatives and friends over Christmas and New Year.

“We hope that lifting normal restrictions during this time will make things a little easier for everyone trying to get around the borough and give another welcome boost to our local businesses.”

Brent council is offering similar relief this weekend, and has been throughout December in an attempt to support small businesses.

This weekend there is free parking at the following in Brent:

  • Elm Road: space for around 100 cars
  • Kingsbury Road: space for around 50 cars
  • Preston Road: more than 160 car parking bays
  • Salusbury Road: space for more than 50 cars
  • Lonsdale Avenue: space for 33 cars
  • Neasden Town Centre: space for 38 cars
  • St John's Road: space for around 80 cars
  • Wendover Road: 27 parking bays

Brent Cllr Eleanor Southwood said: "I hope that providing free parking across eight sites in the borough at one of the busiest times of the year for businesses will help those who do shop locally to stay loyal, and for those who tend to drive out of the borough to shop, to encourage them to see what local high streets in the borough have to offer."

As well as free weekend parking, to manage demand and provide an alternative to street parking, all Brent Council car parks will be free on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

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