Linslade motorist fined over Blue Badge misuse in Dunstable car park

Michael Smith, 74, of Bideford Green, pleaded guilty to misusing the badge to park in the Go Bowling car park in Dunstable in November 2019.

He was fined £264 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30 and costs of £335.50 – a total cost to him of £629.50

Councillor Richard Wenham, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Corporate Resources at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “People who mis-use badges to park in bays reserved for Blue Badge holders are selfishly taking spaces away from those who genuinely need them.

“They allow those in our communities who need them the most the opportunity to park close to services and amenities.

“They must only be used by another person if the badge holder is either being dropped off or collected.

“Rules around Blue Badge use are very clear, and we have a zero-tolerance approach against this type of offence. If we catch people using badges inappropriately, we will take action.”