Supermarkets join government in Blue Badge abuse crackdown

Date: 31/5/2011

As the government continues its efforts to prevent the Blue Badge system being abused, seven major supermarket chains have pledged their support.

The Department for Transport reveals that Morrisons, Marks and Spencer, Aldi, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Tesco and Lidl have all promised to do what they can to ensure the scheme is not taken advantage of in their car parks.

Established to be used by individuals who have severe mobility issues, the Blue Badge initiative allows members to park within easy distance of where they need to be, including on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours.

Local Transport Minister Norman Baker wrote to the chains as part of his response to the concerns of disability groups - who claim that they have had problems parking in designated bays at the stores due to non-badge holders taking them.

"I am delighted to have secured the support of the major supermarket groups and to know that they share my view that abuse of Blue Badge parking bays needs to be tackled, protecting customers who rely on such spaces," he said.

Some retailers have warned they will issue a charge notice to people breaking the rules, while others will leaflet vehicles or initiate patrols.

Earlier in the year, Mr Baker announced that a new badge is to be launched that will be harder to forge.

Posted by Mary Treen