Effectiveness of disabled parking legislation to be scrutinised by Holyrood
Has legislation aimed at tackling the misuse of disabled parking places been effective? This is just one of the questions Holyrood’s Local Government and Communities Committee will ask as it launches an investigation into the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009.
The act, which came into force in 2009, was aimed at stopping disabled parking spaces being used by those not entitled to use them. Whilst enforcement action can be taken against non-blue badge holders who park in a disabled persons’ place, some local authorities rely on the goodwill of drivers not to park in what is known as ‘advisory parking places’.
Committee convener, Bob Doris MSP, said: “Around one million people in Scotland are disabled and rely on disabled persons’ parking in order to access everyday services that most of us take for granted. The abuse of these parking spaces can have a hugely negative impact on the lives of those who rely on these spaces.
“We want to hear from people about whether the legislation is working as well as it should be. Has the legislation simplified the process and helped to stop the misuse of disabled parking on our high streets, private parking and in residential areas?”
The committee has launched a call for evidence asking: