Huge increase in the number of fines issued to drivers illegally parking in disabled spaces
Motorists have been asked to be be more considerate of disabled drivers after figures revealed an increase in the number of fines issues to drivers parking in disabled bays without a valid blue badge.
Figures, gathered by the motoring group Evans Halshaw, have revealed that in 2024 1,921 fines were issued by Portsmouth City Council - an increase from 1,686 fines the year before - in the combination of penalty charge notices for both on-street and off-street offences.
The figures are:
- 2019: 1,275
- 2020: 938
- 2021: 1,139
- 2022: 1,392
- 2023: 1,686
- 2024: 1,921
Hotspots for fines being issued in the city are Portland Road with more than 400 issued, Landport View with more than 250 fines issued, and Penhale Road with more than 200 issued.
Figures for Hampshire County Council show that 12,010 fines were issued between 2020 and 2024 for misuse of disabled parking spaces.
- 2020: 759
- 2021: 1,369
- 2022: 1,404
- 2023: 3,060
- 2024: 5,418
The figures come amid a long term trend that has seen more disabled bays installed as our population ages, and more people are qualifying for blue badges. This then reduces the number of ‘normal’ parking spaces for other motorists. This coincides with an ever-increasing number of vehicles on the road which is increasing the pressure on parking.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Portsmouth City Council’s cabinet Member for Transport, said it was important it looked after disabled motorists while also promoting green transport options for the city’s residents. He said: "We want to make travel easier for everyone in the city and that includes people with disabilities.
"It's therefore essential that disabled parking bays are kept clear for Blue Badge holders only, so that people with mobility issues can access their homes, shops and other important amenities safely and conveniently.
"Using a disabled space without a valid badge is inconsiderate and we take the misuse of these bays extremely seriously. Anyone found parking without displaying a valid Blue Badge can expect to receive a penalty charge notice.
"We ask all drivers to respect the correct use of these spaces so that our city remains accessible for everyone."
The money generated from the fines is primarily used to help cover the running costs of the council's parking and enforcement services. Any surplus must be spent on transport-related expenses.
Julie Wallman, Evans Halshaw divisional marketing director, said: “Disabled parking bays exist to ensure safe and accessible travel for people with limited mobility, whether they’re heading to a supermarket, medical appointment, or just going about their day.
“When drivers use these spaces without a Blue Badge, it reduces availability for those who genuinely need them.
“These figures show just how common this issue is across Hampshire and the rest of the UK, and highlight the importance of keeping accessible spaces available, particularly as more people rely on mobility solutions to support independent living.”