New campaign to crack down on blue badge fraud in East Sussex
As many as one in five in the county could be being misused
Police are teaming up with local authorities in East Sussex, Brighton and Hove to crack down on the misuse of blue badge fraud.
New estimates suggest as many as 20% of the 36,000 badges, issued to allow parking in disabled spaces, are being misused in the county.
Blue Badge fraud includes individuals using someone else’s badge to park in designated disabled bays, depriving those with legitimate needs of vital access to parking.
Those caught committing blue badge fraud can face up to two years' imprisonment and an unlimited fine.
197 community resolutions were issued by Brighton and Hove City Council in 2023/24, up from 179 the previous year.
The new initiative, called Operation Bluebird, aims to free up spaces for residents and visitors who genuinely need them.
Councillor Trevor Muten, Brighton and Hove City Council's cabinet member for Transport, Parking and the Public Realm, said:
"The misuse of Blue Badges is not only unfair but has a direct impact on the mobility and independence of people with disabilities who rely on these spaces.
“Through our collaboration with Sussex Police, we are taking decisive action to ensure these spaces are used appropriately.
"Misusing a Blue Badge is a serious offence, and we will continue to work to protect the rights of disabled residents and visitors."