Swindon Borough Council and inSwindon BID have joined forces to help keep town centre shoppers are kept safe this Christmas.  

Both will engage with the public to promote Covid-secure shopping, offer guidance around social distancing and act as a general point of enquiry for people who may need additional support.  

The council has expanded its daytime community engagement work to encompass shopping hotspots in the town centre and at other locations across Swindon, including the Orbital Shopping Park, Outlet Centre, and Greenbridge Retail Park.  

And inSwindon has deployed its additional special ambassadors to provide essential safety advice to shoppers and businesses.  

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Council leader David Renard said: “We understand that people will want to get out and about to get their Christmas shopping done, and we fully encourage residents to head to the shops and support local businesses. 

“It is essential, however, that this activity takes place in a manner that does not compromise all the hard work we have done as a community to mitigate the spread of Covid-19. 

“We will be working closely with inSwindon and other partners during the Christmas period to ensure that all of Swindon’s popular retail spots are Covid-secure and that shoppers and businesses alike are able to operate in a safe environment.” 

InSwindon BID manager Anita Bellinger said: “With the current local restrictions in place, it is of the utmost importance that everyone feels safe and government guidelines are followed to protect visitors, residents, and employees of the town. 

“We are looking forward to seeing our wonderful town bustling, with everyone feeling festive, but we also need to remain aware of the current situation.  

“In response to this, we will be welcoming three new members to the team, who will join our existing ambassadors and will provide an increased presence in the town centre. 

“It is vital that we continue to engage with the public, offer advice and social distancing guidance to support our businesses, the town centre economy and public safety. 

“Together we can keep Swindon safe and encourage visitors back to a welcoming town centre, #ShineOnSwindon.” 

With many shops planning to extend their opening hours for the Christmas period, the council has introduced a fixed £1 rate from 4pm onwards at its car parks.