SHOPPERS could park for free in council-owned car parks while they buy their Christmas presents.

Plans have been revealed for free parking all day in Rochford District Council’s car parks on four Saturdays in the run up to the festive season – November 27 and December 4, 11 and 18.

The plans, for car parks in Rayleigh, Rochford, Hockley, Hullbridge and Canewdon, will be agreed, unless a councillor calls it in for debate.

Parking is already free after 1pm om Saturdays.

Keith Hudson, Tory councillor responsible for planning and transport, said: “Christmas is fast approaching once again, but our country finds itself in the grip of an unprecedented, but very necessary period of austerity.

“Through careful budgeting, first-class management by council officers and the frugal use of our income, we are still able to support our residents and businesses, with what has now become our traditional free parking on the four Saturdays in the run up to Christmas.”

Carl Watson, chairman of Rayleigh Chamber of Trade, welcomed the move.

He said: “It is excellent if it goes ahead.

“You have got the lights switch on and with the free Saturdays, it is all about trying to encouraged the community back into the town.”