Regeneration and Highways & Neighbourhoods Cabinet Members – Minutes – 8 November 2013

1               (1) SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY – The Director of Places submitted a report which sought approval to suspend normal car parking charges in all council operated pay & display car parks in support of ‘Small Business Saturday’ on 7 December 2013.

It was explained that the UK was celebrating its first ‘Small Business Saturday’ on 7 December 2013 which provided an opportunity for small businesses to promote themselves and generate additional trade. In the US, where it was an established commercial holiday, it had generated $5.5 billion in sales in 2012.

The government and all the major political parties were supporting the day and Local Authorities were being encouraged to offer support locally.

The report highlighted the fact that there were 4.8 million small businesses in the UK and over 14 million people work in them. ‘Small Business Saturday’ aimed to raise the profile of small businesses.

The Cabinet Members were asked to consider taking an urgent decision on this matter to allow for necessary publicity of the free parking offer in advance of 7 December 2013.

Resolved – (a) That the suspension of normal car parking charges in support of ‘Small Business Saturday’ on 7 December 2013 be approved, and (b) that all council operated pay and display car parks provide free parking on that day.

 

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