Christmas shoppers are being advised to plan ahead to avoid the stresses of city centre parking as Christmas markets make their seasonal comeback.
With city centre traffic restricted in many places and parking spaces at a premium, online parking firm YourParkingSpace.co.uk has urged drivers to book spaces in advance to cut down on navigating traffic, town centre driving, congestion and parking stresses.
City centre parking at a premium
As the commercial sector returns to its usual rotation of events, this year has seen Christmas markets make a near-complete return. And attendance figures are expected to be back in the millions across the UK, despite the cost of living crisis hitting many consumer pockets.
With the risk of more train service delays, as well as rising prices at many council-led parking spaces, Harrison Woods, CEO at YourParkingSpace.co.uk, has warned savvy Christmas shoppers to consider alternatives to traditional pay-on-the-day parking to ensure day trips run as smoothly as possible.
Potential public transport disruption
Booking a parking spot nearby could give families the peace of mind they need, knowing they’ve guaranteed a spot close to one of the events
He said: “Christmas markets are a highlight for many in the Christmas calendar. However, it is expected that this year’s festive fun will coincide with shoppers once again descending upon the markets in their droves.
“If this is the case, we can expect all the parking chaos to resume.
“With the country currently facing the potential for more rail strikes in December, it is not as simple as relying on public transport any more to help get the family out and about.
“Booking a parking spot nearby could give families the peace of mind they need, knowing they’ve guaranteed a spot close to one of the events.”
Reduce stress and book ahead
With city parking prices also rising, booking a parking space with guaranteed availability within walking distance could be the smart option for many.
For example, in Edinburgh, the average price for a booked spot close to East Princes Street Gardens could cost an average of £14. Or if you are travelling south to see family or enjoy a weekend break Christmas shopping, a booked space could cost as little as £4.50.
Save money as parking prices rise
Harrison added: “When you count how much it costs to get to Christmas markets, knowing that you can book a spot, far in advance of actual attendance, can help get the day off to a great start.
“It’s not just space within commercial car parks that we offer. For homeowners, there is still plenty of time for those living close to a market to list their spare driveway and hopefully make a little bit of extra money to spend on gifts for themselves, too.”
To book a parking space or register your driveway in time for the festive season, go to yourparkingspace.co.uk
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