Govt introduces new electronic Blue Badge system

Date: 4/1/2012

The government has introduced new measures to crack down on motorists who abuse the Blue Badge disabled parking system.

Drivers with a disability are now able to apply for an electronically printed badge - similar to a driving licence - instead of the previous handwritten card.

It is hoped this will make the permits harder to forge, as they will contain a serial number that can be checked by parking attendants, as well as a digital photo and a hologram.

Transport Minister Norman Baker said: "Our new Blue Badge will be as secure as a banknote and anyone thinking of faking it can forget it."

He described it as "disgraceful" that motorists pretend to be disabled to park for free as they prevent people who really need the spaces from accessing them.

Badge holders are generally allowed to park on double or yellow lines for up to three hours and can park for free in places that require them to use on-street meters. They can also use designated spaces in car parks.

Posted by Mary Treen