The Department for Transport has confirmed that Blue Badge holders risk a £1,000 fine and having their permit revoked if they allow friends or family members to misuse it. The rule applies when the badge is used without the holder being in the vehicle at any point during the trip.
What Constitutes Misuse?
According to the DfT, using another person's badge without the holder present is misuse. Other prohibited actions include lending a badge to a friend or family member, using an expired permit, tampering with badge details, or using a forged or counterfeit badge. Road users are urged to obey the rules to avoid penalties.
Consultation and Public Response
The DfT held an eight-week public consultation from 21 January to 18 March 2018, receiving over 6,300 responses. Of respondents, 89% supported extending the Blue Badge eligibility criteria in principle, including 71% of local authorities, 84% of groups representing disabled people, 87% of other organisations, and 89% of individuals.
Concerns Raised
Some stakeholders expressed concerns about pressure on on-street parking spaces. Groups representing disabled people suggested more spaces would be needed, while local authorities worried about increased demand for disabled parking spaces. The DfT acknowledged that the impact on parking will vary by location and that local authorities may need to review parking provision once changes take effect.
There were also concerns about a greater risk of abuse of the scheme. The DfT emphasised that misuse of a Blue Badge, such as by friends or family members, is already a criminal offence. The Committee noted that it will be for local authorities to ensure any risk is mitigated.
