Charnwood Borough Council is offering two hours' free parking at Granby Street and Beehive Lane car parks from 2 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. The scheme aims to encourage more shoppers, visitors and residents to use the town centre during the busy festive period and support local retailers, hospitality businesses, market traders and other traders.
How the scheme works
The free parking offer is available seven days a week, 24 hours a day throughout the promotional period. Any stay longer than two hours will incur the full parking charge for the entire visit, including the initial two-hour period.
Supporting town centre businesses
Cllr Liz Blackshaw, the Council's Lead Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, said the weeks leading up to Christmas are crucial for Loughborough town centre businesses. "We are committed to supporting local businesses and helping our local economy thrive. This initiative is another way we are showing that commitment by making it easier for people to visit the town centre and enjoy everything it has to offer," she said.
Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the Council's Lead Member for Economic Development, Regeneration and Town Centres, noted that Loughborough has a mix of independent businesses, national retailers, cafés, restaurants and attractions. The Council is investing almost £1 million in town centre car parks this year and running a programme of events that attracts thousands of visitors.
Christmas events in the town centre
In the run-up to Christmas, the town centre will host Loughborough Fair, the Christmas Lights Switch-on, Christmas markets and other events. More information is available at www.discovercharnwood.co.uk.