Disabled driver Blue Badge revisions

Tougher Blue Badge disabled parking regulations will come into force from next month to make it harder for people to abuse the system.

There have been widespread concerns that the Blue Badge scheme is open to fraud, with recent concerns focusing on counterfeit badges.

As a result, all new badges will carry an anti-fraud hologram.

In addition, the scheme has been extended to cover children under two who have medical conditions that require them to travel with bulky medical equipment.

It will also now cover those who drive non-adapted cars but are unable to operate parking meters.

The changes come into effect on October 15.

A wholesale review of the Blue Badge scheme is under way, and it is expected to lead to widespread reforms in April 2008.

Issues being discussed include future eligibility criteria and whether people with temporary disabilities should qualify for the scheme.