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13
Aug
Blue Badge holders could lose key concession in local parking changes
Disabled motorists could lose a key concession under proposed changes to local parking.
Conservative-controlled North Yorkshire Council published a ‘parking principles’ document on Monday (August 11), which is expected to be approved by its ruling executive next week.
The Stray Ferret revealed yesterday it could spell the end of disc zone parking and see an increase in tariffs.
The proposals also include changes to the Blue Badge permit scheme for people with disabilities or health conditions that make it difficult to get around.
Blue Badge holders can currently park for free in council parking bays on the street and in car parks.
A Blue Badge permit
But the new parking principles document says the council is only legally required to recognise Blue Badges for on-street parking and their use in off-street car parks is a concession.
It adds:
“Blue Badge parking is aimed at providing access and proximity. It will be provided and managed in line with observed need. Off-street charges will apply in all cases.”
It says the change would “remove the financial incentive for those ineligible for a badge to use or acquire one”, which would “improve availability of the disabled bays provided for those with real access needs".
Robert Kernaghan, vice chair of Harrogate-based Disability Action Yorkshire, raised concern about the proposal.
He said:
We are concerned by North Yorkshire Council’s proposal to introduce charges for Blue Badge parking in car parks. Such a move risks undermining accessibility for disabled people and could have serious consequences for the inclusivity and economic vitality of our area.
We urge the council to carry out a thorough equality impact assessment and to work closely with disabled people, and the organisations that represent them, to find fair, accessible alternatives that uphold their legal and moral obligations.
Blue Badges cost £10 and have to be renewed every three years.
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