Medway Council officers confiscated 24 fraudulent or misused blue badges and issued 12 penalty charges in a recent operation (March 31 – April 4).
The crackdown targeted the misuse of disabled parking permits to improve accessibility for genuine users. Over 100 badges were checked, revealing instances of lost/stolen badges and family members misusing permits.
Misuse can lead to fines up to £1,000, potentially higher for fraud. The council vows to continue these efforts.
Cllr Alex Paterson, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Highways and Enforcement, said:
“I hope this recent crackdown will send a strong message to those abusing a system that’s designed to help those in genuine need. It’s totally unacceptable to use a lost, stolen or forged badge, and we will make every effort to make sure those doing so will pay the penalty.”
If you have an expired Blue Badge or one you no longer need, please return it to Blue Badges, Medway Council, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham, ME4 4TR or drop it off at one of our Community Hubs.
If you suspect someone of illegally using a Blue Badge for parking, you can report them to the council online, by calling 01634 33 2377 or by e-mailing blue.badges@medway.gov.uk