Forum calling for supporters

The Forum of Private Business is calling on councils across the UK to lend their support by waiving parking charges on the first UK Small Business Saturday.

The event on December 7 is the culmination of a campaign to encourage communities to shop local and support their small businesses.

Dewsbury Regeneration Board chairman Coun Paul Kane said he had asked Kirklees officials to look at whether something could be done to support the event.

“We want to support it. I think it’s a good idea,” he said.

“We’re trying different ideas already to support them with some parking.

“The free parking scheme is still running in Cliffe Street, but if we can promote something else on that day then I’d like us to.”

Shoppers can get vouchers for three hours’ free parking in Cliffe Street car park when they visit participating businesses and market stalls.

Funding for the current scheme finishes in March.

The council is also considering more free parking spaces in the town centre.

In July, Dewsbury Area Committee heard proposals to allow drivers to park for free in two parking bays at the top of Northgate for up to 30 minutes, with no return in a hour.

Five extra pay and display spaces could also be added near the town hall.