As a special boost at this time of the year, and looking forward to the of celebrations in a very special new year, Dover District Council (DDC) is offering free parking on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 December in all its owned car parks.

The offer does not however, include on-street Pay and Display areas.

This may not apply to certain car parks managed by DDC but owned by others as these businesses may wish for the usual turnover of vehicles for trading reasons.

Sainsbury’s in Deal has already stated that they will also be offering free parking on these two days.

All car parks not forming part of the scheme, road markings such as double yellow lines and on-street parking areas will be enforced as usual.

Cllr Nigel Collor, DDC Cabinet Member for Access and Property Management said: “We are offering our communities a weekend of free parking in our car parks as we look forward to an exciting new year, when we will see a range of celebrations, including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games in London, with the Olympic Torch in Dover on 18 July and in Deal, Sandwich and Sholden the following day.

“In these difficult economic times, DDC is looking at its finances, like all businesses, but is offering free parking in certain areas as a one-off goodwill gesture.”

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©