Free parking scheme in council-run car parks for Cheltenham Festival
There'll be free parking at Town Centre East and Sherborne Place car parks - with the BID saying it'll help in what can otherwise be a quiet time
Ahead of Cheltenham Festival this week - an scheme's been launched to encourage shoppers to visit local shops.
There'll be free parking at Town Centre East and Sherborne Place car parks between 12pm and 8pm - with the Business Improvement District saying it'll help in what can otherwise be a quiet time.
The initiative, between 11 and 14 March, is hoped to bring the buzz of the festival to the town centre.
'Cheltenham Festival brings a buzz to the town'
Cllr Alisha Lewis, cabinet member for finance and assets, said: “Cheltenham Festival brings a buzz to the town, but we know that for some retailers in the town centre they experience quieter periods throughout the day during race week.
“I’m pleased that in partnership Cheltenham BID and Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce we can support our town centre retailers by making it easier for residents to pop into town and enjoy everything Cheltenham has to offer.”
Cheltenham businesses are encouraging residents to visit during the quieter hours of race week with some retailers offering customer incentives.
Sarah, weekend supervisor at the Curious Café, Bath Road, said: “We are really looking forward to seeing you during race week at the Curious Café. We see lots of you, year after year, and you’re already booked in – thank you very much. What you may not have realised is that we’re quiet from midday onwards. We’d really love for you to come down then; have a coffee, cake, a snack.”
Kristine Scott, head of HRC Law Cheltenham office, said: “HCR Law actively seek to support the local community in which we live and work. Alongside the fantastic races, Cheltenham has a lot more to offer – from artisan coffee shops and award-winning restaurants to a range of independent shops. Our Cheltenham office encourages everyone, including locals, to make the most of everything the town has to offer.”
John Lewis, Cheltenham, is hosting a beauty masterclass with YSL on 11 March featuring a special guest appearance from a YSL make-up artist. The store is also promoting a more personalised shopping experience and an opportunity to view their new spring-summer collection during quieter hours.
Francesca Inman, chief executive of Cheltenham BID, said: “Cheltenham Festival brings a fantastic energy to the town, but we know that some businesses experience quieter periods during the day. We’re delighted to be working in partnership with the council and Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce to support businesses during this time.
“We hope that the offer of free parking will encourage residents to visit the town centre during race week to explore and support our fantastic local retailers—whether it’s grabbing lunch, enjoying a coffee, or taking advantage of exclusive offers from shops and cafes.”