Blue Badge holders can once again park free of charge in Wiltshire Council-run car parks.
Wiltshire councillors voted to reintroduce free parking at the full council meeting on Tuesday 21st October.
Charges were introduced for Blue Badge holders in council car parks in 2022, although free on-street parking remained in place.
With full council now backing the change, Blue Badge holders are once again able to park free of charge in all Wiltshire Council car parks.
Westbury councillor Gordon King said, “There is little doubt in my mind that the policy of the former Conservative administration to end free parking for blue badge holders not only caused the council to discriminate against the most vulnerable it also put them at serious risk of accident and injury by forcing them to park on double yellow lines.
“I would watch (and help wherever I could) already physically restricted people struggle to get out of their cars to unload mobility equipment whilst dodging traffic on very busy roads.
“Parking free in the car park provides safety, gives them time to unload and get going. Many gave up going out because they could not park or afford to pay to park. They became excluded from access to community facilities. I am pleased we have put an end to that discrimination.”
Cabinet Member for Highways, Cllr Martin Smith, said, “I’m delighted that full council has supported this important change. Reinstating free parking for Blue Badge holders is a significant step towards making Wiltshire a more inclusive and accessible county.
“There are more than 30,000 Blue Badge holders in Wiltshire, many of whom face mobility challenges or rely on others for transport. This policy recognises the barriers they face and promotes fairness, independence and dignity.
“We know that many Blue Badge holders also experience lower levels of income, and this policy change will help them financially, too.
“Parking for all Blue Badge holders is now free in all of our car parks and we’re updating the signage as soon as we can.”
All Blue Badge holders must continue to clearly display their badge when using designated bays.
Pictured: Cllr Gordon King
