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Warning for more than three million drivers who hold Blue Badge in UKNew data obtained has shown the alarming disparity between the number of Blue Badge holders and designated parking bays

across the UK.MotoringChristian Abbott Audience Writer12:48, 04 Jun 2025New data obtained has shown the alarming disparity between the number of Blue Badge holders and designated parking

bays across the UK. More than 3 million Blue Badge holders have been issued a stark warning. New data obtained has shown the alarming disparity between the number of Blue Badge holders and

designated parking bays across the UK.

There are currently 52 permit holders competing for a spot, data shows. The scheme provides a national range of on-street parking concessions to Blue Badge holders.

‌ It allows them to park without charge or time limit in otherwise restricted on-street parking environments and allows them to park on yellow lines for up to three hours, unless a loading

ban is in place.

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The data shows that there are over 3.2 million Blue Badge permit holders in the UK, compared to just 63,000 designated Blue Badge parking bays.

Article continues below Rhydian Jones, a motoring expert at Confused.com car insurance, said: "Blue Badge parking spaces are essential for millions of drivers across the UK, but our latest

research shows how easily that system struggles."

He said: "This is especially highlighted when there isn't enough availability, and other drivers take advantage of the spaces. Shockingly, for every one Blue Badge parking bay in the UK,

there are 52 permit holders who need access to it."

Local authorities are responsible for the day-to-day administration and enforcement of the scheme. They are responsible for determining and implementing administrative, assessment and

enforcement procedures which they believe are in accordance with the governing legislation.

Article continues below n response to the growing demand for accessible parking, Confused.com has developed an online tool to help people locate the nearest available spot, regardless of

their location.

This comes as the rate of new applications for Blue Badge permits has surged by 31 per cent between 2022 and 2024.

A total of 1.3 million new applications were made during this period, in addition to the 1.5 million renewal applications submitted by existing holders.