Latest figures show there are 2.84 million valid Blue Badges issued to people with mobility problems in England
Motoring experts have issued a stark warning after the number of people with Blue Badge parking permits rocketed. New figures show there were 2.84 million valid blue badges at the end of March 2024 - up from 2.57 million - or 10.5% - in a year.
The regions with the highest percentage was the North East at 5.8%. The lowest was London with 3.3% holding one of the permits. The badges make it easier for people to park close to their destination with special bays outside stores and in the street. They are also often allowed to park on double yellow lines where other motorists are prevented from doing so.
Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “With parking spaces often at a premium in places like retail parks and supermarkets it might be tempting to occupy a disabled bay – maybe just for a few minutes – but we should remind ourselves that one day we could be the ones reliant on the easier access that Blue Badges are there to provide.”
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