Blue badge holders could be charged for parking

Holders of blue badges that provide benefits to drivers with a disability could be charged for parking, it has been revealed.

The move would see Powys County Council save up to £100,000 every year, but opposition will argue that this is just a drop in the ocean of the £8.5 million the authority needs to shave off its budget over the next financial year.

Currently, blue badge holders can park all day for free at council owned and operated pay and display car parks.

Cllr Phyl Davies, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “This is a very difficult time for the council and difficult decisions have to be made.

“We fully recognise that blue badge holders do have mobility issues and need extra time to park and shop.

“Our preferred option is that a blue badge holder pays towards parking but they will get extra time for free. So, if a blue badge holder pays for two hours, they would actually get three hours parking in total.

“The consultation will close on Monday, July 2. I urge those who are blue badge holders, their family members or anyone else interested in this consultation to make their views known before the closing date.”

Residents will be consulted on a number of options including:

·      No concession applies. Blue badge holders pay the same amount as anyone else

·      Blue badge holders who park in a disabled bay park for free. Those who cannot find a disabled bay have to pay to park with no additional concession

·      Blue badge holders pay towards parking but get an extra hour for free on top of the time chosen.

·      Blue badge holders continue to park for free. The £100,000 savings target should be found from somewhere else.

To take part in the consultation visit www.powys.gov.uk/haveyoursay or request and return a paper copy via the library.