Public transport could deliver a significant boost to the local economy, as free buses have been announced on two key shopping dates close to Christmas'.

Buses will be free on two weekend dates later this month, with the first one being this Saturday.

The cost-free travel is thanks to Macclesfield Town Council, teaming up with D&B Buses.

Macclesfield Town Council said in a statement: "Macclesfield Town Council's Community Transport working group have been discussing ways to encourage people to leave their car at home."

(Christmas tree strapping to a bus is not included!)

"The group, chaired by Cllr James Barber, is keen to change people's behaviour and encourage them to try the bus.

"Meetings were held with D&G, the main bus provider in Macclesfield and an agreement reached which would see Macclesfield Town Council fund specific bus routes in the town on the two Saturdays before Christmas, making it free for travellers."

D&G routes 3 which covers the Weston, 10 which covers Tytherington and Bollington, 19 & 19A which covers Upton Priory and High Peak route 14 & 14A which covers the Moss Rose estate will all be free on Saturday 16th and 23rd December.

Cllr Barber said "One of the aims of the Community Transport Sub-Committee is to ensure Macclesfield has a sustainable, accessible and inclusive community transport system. I'm delighted that the Committee agreed to partner with local bus operators to deliver two free bus days in December - connecting the communities of Macclesfield with each other in the run up to Christmas.

(Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"As Chair of the Committee, I look forward to continuing working with colleagues to understand the priorities of our town and working to fix them."

The Town Council hopes that people will take advantage of the free travel, and use it to shop locally in the town centre, visit friends and family, or even to try something new like going to a Macclesfield FC football game or a carol concert at St Michaels.

"By using the buses and seeing how easy it can be to get around town, the hope is that people will be more inclined to include them in their everyday lives going forward, particularly as the central Government £2 bus fare cap has been extended and will run until 31 December 2024.

More information on bus routes can be found on the bus company websites High Peak Buses and D&G Buses.

The buses would currently cost £2 per ride. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

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