Chester shops are prepared for the run up to Christmas

Chester is ready to welcome shoppers for what’s expected to be the busiest weekend of the year to complete their Christmas shopping.

To help make this weekend’s visit an even better experience, Northgate Street will be closed to all vehicles (from the barrier at Town Hall Square) on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 December between 10.30am and 4.30pm.

Explained Councillor Karen Shore, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment, Highways and Strategic Transport: “One of the actions we can take to provide more space for pedestrians is to prevent vehicles driving through the city centre. The city centre is mostly traffic free after 10.30am but some vehicles are still permitted like blue badge holders and residents staying in City centre hotels. I’m sorry this will inconvenience some people however the decision has been made for the safety of the increased number of pedestrians.

“These measures are being taken to make it easier for shoppers to observe social distancing, please remember to wash hands regularly, we have washing facilities available in the city centre and cover faces when indoors or on the City Rows.”

In Chester there has been a team of Capable Guardians supporting businesses and shoppers since the summer. In addition to offering help and guidance they are also monitoring how busy the city centre has been.

Footfall monitors in Chester have recorded visitor numbers returning to 80 per cent compared to the same time last year, with over 59,000 people recorded last Saturday (12 December).

Added Councillor Shore: “To avoid the queues, mornings are the quietest times with a peak at lunch time. Our Capable Guardians have also reported a steady rise in the numbers of people later in the afternoon. By allowing a little extra time and planning your trip everyone can stay safe and get all of the Christmas presents they need.”

Chester’s Park & Ride service is just £1 per person offering an easy solution for drivers and saving time and money looking for a parking place.

Remember ‘Hands, Face, Space’ and support local businesses.

Blue Badge Holders can park in any of the Council's pay and display car park for up to four hours without charge. There are three car parks dedicated to Blue Badge holders:

• Frodsham Street, Chester, CH1 3JJ
• Hamilton Place, Chester, CH1 2BG
• Central Palace Drive, Northwich, CW9 5DW