Enhanced security measures will soon be in place for Chester's annual Christmas market.

Preparations will commence on 13 November, as the building for the annual Christmas Market on Town Hall Square begins. The market will officially open on 19 November, followed by the 12 Days of Christmas parade on 20 November.

Each year, enhanced security measures are put in place over the Christmas period.

"Ensuring the safety of residents, businesses and visitors is the reason behind our security measures," said Councillor Karen Shore.

"Chester welcomes far more people during this period and removing vehicles from the city centre aims to make the experience far better for most people."

Cllr Shore apologised for the inconvenience caused by the measures, as she added: "We introduced additional security measures a few years ago in addition to our cctv cameras that are monitored 24 hrs a day.

"All of the activities in place are reviewed before, during and after the festive period to ensure the maximum security with the minimum disruption is in place.

"I'm sure people understand why these measures are in place." 

Bridge Street and Watergate Street closure times until 8pm will remain as normal throughout this period.

Only bridal cars attending weddings at the Grosvenor Hotel, funeral cars, emergency service vehicles, emergency utility works vehicles, council waste collection, emergency lighting and highways vehicles will be allowed access into the central streets of the city during these hours.

Blue badge holders, hotel guests, businesses, deliveries, and residents will not have access during these hours.

The city centre bollards at the Town Hall Kiosk and St. John's Street will be raised in the 'up' position for a longer period than usual, from 19 November to 22 December.

They will be raised between 10.30am and 8pm, from Thursday to Saturday (including 23 December) and from 10.30am to 6.30pm from Sunday to Wednesday.

On Christmas Eve, the bollards will be closed from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

In addition, on Saturdays from 22 November to 21 December the bollards opposite Storyhouse will also be closed, from 10.30am to 8pm, and on Sundays, from 12pm to 6pm, for the duration of this festive period.

On 23 December the bollards will be closed from 10.30am to 8pm.

Princess Street bollards will be raised in the 'up' position, seven days a week, from 7 November until 23 December.

There is a range of alternative parking available in multi storey car parks, Hamilton Place, Frodsham Street and on roads outside the central streets for blue badge holders affected by this change. 

Blue Badge vehicles will be permitted access (Monday to Friday) to drop off at the night-time taxi rank and adjacent bays on Northgate Street, opposite the Coachworks Arcade.

On Saturdays and Sundays (from 12pm to 6pm), Blue Badge vehicles will be permitted to drop off at the night-time taxi rank on upper Northgate Street, next to Storyhouse.