Southampton City Council Announces Free District Centre Parking Ahead of Christmas
Southampton City Council has announced that shoppers will be able to enjoy free parking in district centre car parks over the next two weekends as part of a festive initiative designed to support residents, families, and local businesses in the run-up to Christmas.
Parking charges will be lifted from 10am onwards on Saturday 13, Sunday 14, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December across a range of council-run car parks in Bitterne, Portswood, Shirley and Woolston. Normal charges will still apply between 8am and 10am to ensure spaces remain available later in the day, but from 10am all fees are waived.
The council emphasised that other parking regulations—including staying within marked bays and displaying a valid Blue Badge in disabled spaces—will remain in force throughout the free parking period.
The initiative complements the council’s wider efforts to ease pressures on household budgets this winter, including the £1 evening bus fare and £3 weekend Park & Ride service from Adanac Park.
Supporting Local Families and Businesses
Councillor Christie Lambert, Cabinet Member for Transport, said she was pleased the council could offer practical help at a time when many are feeling the financial strain.
“I am delighted to be able to announce the free parking in our district centre car parks over this Christmas period, making it one less thing for local people to have to consider.”
Car Parks Included in the Scheme
Bitterne:
Angel Crescent, Commercial Street, Lances Hill, Peartree Gardens, West End Road, Whites Road
Portswood:
Westridge Road
Shirley:
Bright Glade, Cannon Street, Howard’s Grove, Marlborough Road North, Marlborough Road South
Woolston:
Colonnade, Oakbank Road, Portsmouth Road, Woodley Road North, Woodley Road South
The council hopes the move will encourage more people to visit district centres during one of the busiest times of the year, providing a boost to local traders at a crucial moment in the festive shopping calendar.