Police seize false blue badges for the disabled in Bolton

Police seized six blue badges from individuals found to be using them illegally.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “Today, officers from Bolton Town Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team conducted a joint operation with Civil Enforcement in Bolton Town Centre targeting the misuse of Blue Badges.

“As a result, six blue badges were seized from individuals found to be using them illegally.

“We will continue to work with our partners to tackle abuse of the scheme and ensure parking spaces remain available for those who truly need them.”

Councils have previously been urged to crack down on blue badge misuse as permit holders had an increase.

A Blue Badge is a government-issued parking permit in England that helps people with severe mobility problems or specific hidden disabilities.

It usually means the individual can park closer to their destination. It can be used whether the badge holder is the driver or a passenger. 

Up to one in five Blue Badges may be used by someone other than the legitimate holder.  This can include family misuse, use after death, counterfeit badges, and theft/resale.

Previously, The Bolton News reported on the specific rules of the blue badges.

If you are a Blue Badge holder you must never give the badge to friends or family to allow them to have the benefit of the parking concessions.

Furthermore, you must never use a copied badge to park or try to change the details on a badge.

If you misuse the badge you not only risk a fine but as the badge remains the property of the issuing local council, they can ask for the badge to be returned if it is being misused.