What difference does one parking space make? It can make a big difference to a Blue Badge holder.
Herefordshire Council issues Blue Badges to residents who are disabled and often have severe mobility problems, enabling them to park close to the vital services they need to use. Sadly, the system can be open to abuse, especially by partners, relatives or friends of Blue Badge holders, in order to gain access to free and convenient parking.
Misusing a Blue Badge is a criminal offence and can lead to a fine of up to £1000 and a criminal record. A penalty charge notice will also be issued to anyone misusing a disabled parking badge. Herefordshire Council takes Blue Badge abuse very seriously and is cracking down on their misuse. Since January 2019, over 500 Blue Badges were checked across Herefordshire, with four motorists prosecuted for misusing a badge.
Those who misuse a Blue Badge may not think it will affect anyone, but removing an accessible parking space for those who need it can have seriously hinder their ability to live an independent life.
Blue Badge holders in Herefordshire have access to up to three hours free parking in council car parks, and access to a number of nationwide on-street parking concessions. However, a Blue Badge can only be used by the named badge holder, or by a person who has dropped off or is collecting the badge holder from the place where the vehicle is parked.
Misuse of a Blue Badge can be reported to Herefordshire Council’s parking services by calling 01432 260974 or emailing civilparkingenforcement@herefordshire.gov.uk
