Council could reinstate free Blue Badge parking

Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, said the change would ensure disabled people can shop and access services

Free parking for Blue Badge holders in council-run car parks in Wiltshire could return after being scrapped in 2022.

Wiltshire Council's Liberal Democrats included the plans in their pre-election manifesto, but need the backing of independents, Conservative or Reform UK councillors, or the sole Labour councillor to push the motion through.

The previous Conservative administration ended the free parking scheme, but offered a one-hour extended return time on tickets in 2023.

Ian Thorn, leader of the council, said: "If the proposal is approved by Full Council in October, free parking for Blue Badge holders will be reinstated as soon as signage across all council car parks has been updated."

It is estimated that the move would cost around £40,000 a year in lost parking revenue, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

However, Mr Thorn said the party believes it is "well worth it to ensure disabled people can shop and access services".

"Free parking helps to remove barriers to independence and mobility for disabled people," he said.

"Many face additional costs and challenges in daily life, and free parking helps to ensure fair access to essential services."

There are over 30,000 Blue Badge holders in Wiltshire, according to the latest statistics.

The badge holder has to be driving or being transported in the vehicle.

Drivers from outside Wiltshire, and from countries outside the UK that have their own scheme, can use their Blue Badge in the county.

Currently, badge holders can park free, for as long as they wish, in any on-street parking spaces governed by parking metres or pay and display machines.