Police fight blue badge crime

1:12pm Sunday 25th November 2007

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Almost half the 55 blue badges for disabled parking checked by police during a clampdown were found to be either forgeries or in the wrong hands.

Nine badges were seized by the police during August and October, two of which were forgeries. Also during this time, police found that 23 out of 55 motorists they spoke to were misusing a blue badge.

All were issued with £100 fines and given a word of warning.

A number of areas were targeted in Kingston where misuse of blue badges was thought to be a problem. These included Fife Road, Memorial Square and Kingston Market Place.

Patrols were also carried out around Chessington.

The operation involving Kingston police, Kingston Council and NCP Services - the company responsible for parking enforcement in the borough - has proven to be such a success that further sweeps have now been planned for December and the new year.

Councillor Simon James, executive member for transport at the council, said: "I would like to reinforce the message that genuine users of blue badges have absolutely nothing to fear from this crackdown. On the contrary, the aim is to free up disabled parking bays for those who really need them."

Police Sergeant Matt Smith added that the police are also following up leads with regard to blue badges that have been reported stolen. One arrest has already been made and more are expected.

If you have any information that can assist the police call 020 8547 1212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Guidance on how Blue Badges should be used, along with maps locating Blue Badge parking facilities in Kingston, can be found at www.kingston.gov.uk/bluebadge.