The Blue Badge scheme is available to people who have non-visible disabilities from today.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said that expanding the parking permit will make travel ‘easier’ for people with hidden disabilities, including anxiety disorders or a brain injury.
The Blue Badge scheme enables people with physical disabilities to park closer to their destination than other drivers.
‘We know that for some people, the possibility of not being able to find a parking space can make even leaving the house a challenge, which is why the Blue Badge is so important,’ Mr Shapps said.
‘The scheme, which is already a lifeline for so many disabled people, will make a huge difference to those with non-visible conditions such as autism, dementia, Parkinson’s and arthritis.
‘It is my sincere wish that these changes will improve even more people’s lives.’
The Department for Transport has agreed with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to provide £1.7m in the first year of the programme to help councils with the expected increase in applications.
Minister for disabled people Justin Tomlinson commented: ‘Today is a pivotal moment for thousands of people with hidden disabilities across the country, many of whom face unacceptable discrimination or even abuse when using disabled parking spaces.
‘The changes we’re making will be life-changing for these disabled people, allowing them to go about their daily lives without experiencing unnecessary stress or worry.’
However, Confused.com said there are on average 30 Blue Badge holders ‘battling’ for each dedicated council-owned parking space, something it said the expansion of Blue Badges is likely to worsen.
The firm said its research had found that 74% of councils do not currently plan to expand the number of disabled parking bays.
It added that overall, the expansion of the scheme has been well received by drivers, with almost half (48%) seeing it as a positive move.
This story first appeared on localgov.co.uk.
Register now for full access
Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.
Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors.
Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.
Already a registered? Login
