CAR parking across Broxtowe borough will be free every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas.
The offer will be available in all borough council car parks, except the one at Station Road, Beeston.
It is hoped that the scheme will encourage people to shop for their presents locally, instead of heading into the city.
Christmas entertainment is also planned for Beeston, Eastwood, Kimberley and Stapleford. Events will run every Friday and Saturday lunchtimes in all four towns, as well as on Wednesday evenings in Beeston.
There will be additional street entertainers as well as choirs, carol singers and other activities.
The celebrations have been made possible thanks to £15,000 from the tram project, £5,000 from construction firm Henry Boot and £9,000 from the council.
Councillor Pat Lally, deputy leader of the council, said: "The Christmas trading period is of considerable importance to most businesses that are based in towns, and current difficult trading conditions only add to its importance this year.
"In Beeston, in particular, the disruption caused by the tram works can present the wrong image of the town at a time when organisations are keen to emphasise that it is 'business as usual'."
He added: "A trip to Beeston, Eastwood, Kimberley or Stapleford will solve most of your Christmas present problems."
A three-hour maximum stay will still apply in all short-stay car parks and people will need to obtain a free ticket from the machines.
Enforcement officers will still be on duty to ensure compliance with the three-hour limit and to enforce other restrictions such as those on blue badge parking bays. Normal charges will apply Mondays to Fridays.
For more information on your nearest car park, contact the council on 0115 917 3620, e-mail env@broxtowe.gov.uk or visit www.broxtowe.gov.uk/locateit
Will the offer be enough to attract shoppers? E-mail your views to newsdesk@nottinghampostgroup.co.uk
