Free parking for Christmas light switch-on events

Residents and shoppers are being given free parking for the Christmas light switch-on events taking place across the borough over the next few weeks.

Parking fees in Council car parks will be suspended from half an hour before the start of the event until the charges start again the following day at 8am, so that everyone can enjoy the festivities as the countdown to Christmas continues.

Havering’s seasonal festivities kicks off with the Romford lights switch on event, on Thursday 14 November, with other events taking place in Hornchurch, Upminster, Elm Park, Harold Hill and Collier Row town centres over the following six weeks concluding in Rainham on Saturday 7 December.

This free parking is in addition to free weekend parking in Council car parks from Sunday 30 November until Sunday 5 January.

Councillor Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said:

“We know Christmas is a special time for families. It is also an important time for our local businesses.

“We have recently announced that there will be free parking every weekend in council car parks leading up to Christmas.

“After hearing from businesses we are now going a step further and announcing free parking to help residents enjoy the switch-on events of all our Christmas lights. This will not only mean people get to enjoy these special occasions but can also support our local shops.”

The festive light switch-on events are taking place at the following locations and times:

Romford

Thursday 14 November, 4.30pm-6.30pm

Market Place

Hornchurch

Hornchurch Christmas Cracker, Saturday 16 November, 11am-5pm

Upminster

Thursday 21 November, 3.30pm-6pm

Elm Park

Thursday 28 November, 4pm-6pm

Elm Parade

Harold Hill

Monday 2 December, 4pm-7.30pm

Collier Row

Friday 6 December, 4pm-7.30pm

Rainham

Saturday 7 December, 10am-5pm

Free parking is in Council car parks only. On street parking is not included.

For more details visit www.havering.gov.uk