Pensioners without Blue Badge may still be able to use disabled parking bay

Thousands of people across the UK have a Blue Badge however strict rules over who qualifies means many pensioners are not entitled to one of the disabled parking permits . This means there are people who at times need to get close to their destination but cannot park in a disabled parking bay . However the UK Government has recently confirmed that local councils hold the "powers to mark out bays for specific purposes". This can include dedicated parking spaces for pensioners with mobility problems but who do not receive the mobility component of a qualifying benefit for the Motability or Blue Badge schemes. Labour MP Sojan Joseph recently questioned the UK Government on whether an "assessment of the potential merits of extending eligibility for disabled parking bays for people who are of State Pension age with mobility issues but are not in receipt of the higher rate of DLA (Disability Living Allowance) or PIP (Personal Independence Payment). In a written reply, Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood stated: "Part IV of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 provides local authorities with powers to mark out bays for specific purposes, issue local parking permits, and use Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) to reserve spaces for specific purposes." The Minister further noted: "This can be a voluntary local scheme, and the cost and nature of the concession would be for the local authority to decide." If you live with a physical disability or health condition that impacts your ability to walk safely, or have a hidden condition such as dementia or Parkinson's, you could be eligible for a Blue Badge to help you park closer to your destination, reports the Daily Record . Figures show one in 20 people across England holds a Blue Badge, with the latest figures revealing that 3.07 million people were in possession of one of the permits as of March 31, 2025. In England, a Blue Badge costs up to £10, and in Scotland the fee is £20. However in Wales it is completely free of charge. Local councils are responsible for handling applications, determining who is eligible and setting the price. Blue Badges are typically valid for up to three years before renewal. There are two categories of people eligible to apply for a Blue Badge - some qualify automatically, while others are assessed on an individual basis A Blue Badge holder travelling either as a driver or a passenger can park for free in disabled parking bays and may also be exempt from other parking restrictions. Rules are strict over qualification, however, and misuse can lead to a fine or the badge being confiscated.