Brecon’s St John Ward Councillor is urging residents to have their say on Powys County Council’s plans to introduce parking charges for Blue Badge holders.

Currently, blue badge holders can park for free at council owned and operated pay and display car parks. However the Conservative and Independent-run Council says it needs to find another £100,000 to balance its books and is proposing charges for disabled drivers.

Cllr Matthew Dorrance says:

“Powys County Council is proposing big changes to parking charges for Blue Badge holders and I urge residents, carers and Blue Badge holders themselves to have their say on the plans.

“I’m concerned the proposals may cause social isolation, leaving people with disabilities unable to get out and access local services.

“People with disabilities shouldn’t pay the price of the Council’s failure.”

The Council is seeking views on four options which are:

1. No concession applies. Blue badge holders pay the same amount as anyone else.
2. Blue badge holders who park in a disabled bay park for free. Those who cannot find a disabled bay have to pay to park with no additional concession.
3. Blue badge holders pay towards parking but get an extra hour for free on top of the time chosen.
4. Blue badge holders continue to park for free.