Blue Badge holders told 'you could be called for interview' as new alert issued

Blue Badge holders told 'you could be called for interview' as new alert issued More than three million people in the UK hold a Blue Badge but some are being warned they might be called in to answer questions More than three million people use a Blue Badge to help them park closer to their planned destination. The Badges allow the holders to park in places others often can't, such as some double yellow lines, disabled parking bays and some other designated areas. Granting of the parking permits lies with the local authority and now one has issued a stark warning to those who have been issued with one. And while North East Lincolnshire Council was speaking to people in its area its warning is the same for people across the country. In a statement issued on Tuesday, it said it was asking people to remember the rules around the badges "following recent misuse". It said: "The badge, for people with walking difficulties or a substantial condition, allows them to use accessible parking. However, the law states that it may only be used when the holder of the badge is present in the vehicle. Those found to be using it incorrectly can face a fine and possible prosecution. "This can lead to a fine of up to £1000 and the holder having their badge taken off them. Civil Enforcement Officers can also ask to examine blue badges and failure to comply is a criminal offence." It said the council had recently received reports of people misusing blue badges across the borough. It said it was now looking to remind people of why the blue badges exist and to use them correctly. Councillor James Sawkins, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "These badges are essential to some people for getting around North East Lincolnshire. People misusing them, whatever the circumstances, is not acceptable. "These badges are for the holders and them alone. The rule is very simple, if it’s not yours or the holder isn’t with you, you can’t use it.” The authority said if it was made aware of any misuse of a badge, they will conduct a thorough investigation into the situation. It added: "Following this, anyone who they believe to have been involved will be invited to a voluntary interview and further steps taken from there." What to do with an old blue badge? If you have an old blue badge that is no longer needed, it can be destroyed by yourself or handed back into the Council. What do I do if I suspect someone to be misusing a blue badge? You can make a report by visiting the website, [email protected] or by phone on 01472 313131. [Image text:] P Disabled badge holders only