Photo Credit: Hereford BID
Hereford Business Improvement District (Hereford BID), representing over 600 city centre businesses, is calling on Herefordshire Council to retain the long-standing provision of free parking on the three late-night Wednesdays in the lead-up to Christmas.
The appeal follows a Council review of its festive parking offer. Despite months of dialogue, Hereford BID remains concerned by the lack of clarity, absence of formal proposals, and no viable alternative being presented.
Mike Truelove, Chief Executive of Hereford BID, said:
“For over 40 years, free parking during late-night Christmas shopping has symbolised Herefordshire Council’s support for city centre businesses at their most crucial trading period.
“The idea that this may no longer happen—without notice or a better alternative—feels like something is being taken away, not enhanced. Traders financially contribute to Hereford BID, which under our consumer brand ‘Hereford City Life’ delivers a festive campaign featuring live music and seasonal experiences, supported in part by a valued grant from Hereford City Council.
“Everyone is playing their part in making Hereford a Christmas destination. It’s essential that all partners collaborate and continue to invest in our precious and vulnerable city centre to which everyone reaps the reward including businesses that remain open and valued employment for local people.”
The BID also warned that removing the free parking incentive could discourage visitors, especially from surrounding towns and villages, who may instead choose to shop in locations such as Worcester or Gloucester—both of which offer free festive parking.
“This isn’t just about free parking,” added Mike. “It’s about making Hereford—and Herefordshire—an attractive and compelling choice for Christmas shopping and leisure. Businesses, especially in retail and hospitality, continue to face immense pressures.
“This long-standing gesture of festive goodwill is a core part of Hereford’s Christmas appeal. Removing it now, without a clearly better alternative, risks damaging the city’s reputation and economic performance—and that simply must not happen.”
Hereford BID continues to welcome constructive engagement and remains committed to working with the Council on practical solutions that support the local economy and safeguard the vibrancy of the city centre during the critical Christmas period.
