Drivers face £1,000 fines for using priority parking bays as councils launch 'zero tolerance' attack

Disabled bays are among the most commonly abused, particularly at retail parks and town centre car parks, experts warned.

Experts have urged millions of drivers not to treat disabled bays as "just another space" when car parks are full.

Mobility Solutions Direct has warned that misuse prevents disabled people from accessing shops and services at one of the busiest times of the year.

Several local authorities have confirmed they are taking a "zero tolerance" approach in the run-up to Christmas. Civil enforcement officers and private parking firms have been told to issue tickets immediately to vehicles parked in disabled bays without a valid Blue Badge on display.

Under current rules in England, drivers who park in a disabled bay without a Blue Badge can be hit with a penalty charge of around £70. This is usually reduced to £35 if paid quickly.

However, drivers who deliberately misuse a Blue Badge, such as using a fake badge or borrowing one that does not belong to them, can be taken to court. Magistrates have the power to issue fines of up to £1,000.

Councils and retailers stated parking problems are expected every December, but misuse of disabled bays rises sharply during the festive rush. Enforcement teams have now started paying closer attention, particularly to repeat offenders and cases where misuse appears intentional.

Honest mistakes may result in a penalty charge, while deliberate abuse of the system is treated far more seriously, experts explained.

Lee Cartwright, owner of Mobility Solutions Direct, said: "Every Christmas, the same thing happens. Busy car parks fill up, and some drivers decide to use disabled bays because they think they'll only be a few minutes. But for disabled people, that space can be essential."

He explained that many disabled shoppers rely on those bays to manage everyday tasks. "For someone with chronic pain, breathing problems or limited mobility, losing access to a nearby space can make shopping impossible. It can mean having to cut a trip short or going home without what they need," Mr Cartwright said.

He added that many drivers underestimate the impact of their actions. "10 minutes might not feel like much, but it can be the difference between someone being able to shop independently or not at all."

The festive period creates extra challenges for people with mobility issues. Cold weather can worsen pain and stiffness, while long queues and crowded shops add further strain.

Disabled bays are placed close to shop entrances for a reason. They reduce the distance people need to walk and lower the risk of falls and exhaustion, especially in winter when pavements can be icy and slippery.

Mobility Solutions Direct has issued advice to motorists to help avoid fines and prevent problems for disabled shoppers.

Drivers are reminded to only use disabled bays if they hold a valid Blue Badge and to make sure it is clearly displayed. They should also check signs carefully, particularly in private car parks where rules may differ.

Motorists have also been encouraged to allow extra time to find a standard space during busy periods rather than risking a fine.

"Everyone is busy at Christmas," he said. "But disabled bays aren't a luxury. They're essential. The fines are there to stop abuse, but the real issue is basic fairness and kindness."