Disabled drivers can apply for extra free parking in Dorset
The Council's offering additional permits to some Blue Badge holders
Some Blue Badge holders in Dorset could be in line for extra free parking in Council run car parks.
The authority's opened applications for their new Restricted Mobility Car Park Permit (PMCPP), which would allow people up to three hour stays for free.
The new permit would need to be displayed alongside a Blue Badge, with the aim of giving holders 'more time to complete their shopping and tasks in Dorset’s towns'.
Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
“Some people, because of their mobility, need a little longer to carry out their tasks so our new Restricted Mobility Car Park Permit will give them three hours free parking and more peace of mind when out and about."
People will need to meet certain criteria for the new RMCPP.
Those who don't qualify, but have a Blue Badge, are entitled to an hour's free parking, on top of a valid parking ticket purchased.
Cllr Bryan continued:
"This change makes parking across our car parks consistent. Previously there were different rules for towns in the former district and borough councils that existed before Dorset Council was formed, and this sometimes caused confusion.
“The free hour for Blue Badge holders on top of their purchased parking offers consistency and fairness across our car parks, and takes into account the extra time an individual may need when shopping or visiting our towns.”
Are you eligible?
The new Restricted Mobility Car Park Permit (RMCPP) is available to:
- Those who receive the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Those who have 10 points or more on the 'Moving around' section in the 'Mobility component' of Personal Independence payment (PIP)
- Those with the higher rate mobility component of Child Disability Payment
- Those on the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Those who receive Armed Forces Independence Payment
There's more information on the Dorset Council website |newtab), or by calling 01305 221000.
The RMCPP costs £15 and will expire at the same time as the permit holder’s Blue Badge.
These changes do not apply to car parks not owned by Dorset Council or on-street parking.