Drivers of cars caught illegally using disability parking permits, known as blue badges, had their vehicles impounded during a day of action last month (March, 23).
Thirteen cars were impounded for misuse of the blue badge permits as Tower Hamlets Council spot checked the use of more than 130 badges in one day.
The operation also led to the confiscation of four badges which had previously been reported as lost or stolen.
Blue badges allow those with a disability or health condition to park closer to their destination, but because of the leeway they provide, they often become the target for thieves and fraudsters to steal or misuse the badge for their own benefit and convenience.
To combat this, the council regularly teams up with the Metropolitan Police to spot-check the use of the badges.
Lutfur Rahman, Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:
“Disabled people rely on their blue badges to get around the borough and live independently, so when you have someone selfishly and illegally using a badge, it is depriving those with a genuine need the opportunity to park up safely and reach their destination.
“It is not a victimless crime. We will continue our spot-checks and will not hesitate to take cars off the road where blue badges are being misused.”
To report someone incorrectly using a blue badge, email parking.fraud@towerhamlets.gov.uk
If you want to apply for a blue badge, please click here.
Posted on Tuesday 4th April 2023