We carried out a day of targeted enforcement to tackle the misuse of Blue Badge permits and so help residents and visitors with disabilities or severe mobility issues, to access shops, services and community facilities more easily.
A Blue Badge can only be used when the badge holder is travelling in the vehicle, either as the driver or a passenger, and the badge must be clearly displayed with the correct details visible. Badges must never be used by friends, family members or organisations when the badge holder is not present.
On Thursday 30 July 2026, our enforcement team undertook inspections across Leighton Buzzard, Dunstable, Houghton Regis, Potton, Biggleswade and Sandy. Officers checked Blue Badges in both council car parks and on vehicles parked on double yellow lines.
During the operation, officers examined a total of 110 Blue Badges. In 1 instance, officers found that the badge holder was not present, prompting further investigation. In addition, 5 vehicles were identified as being parked in disabled bays without displaying a valid Blue Badge, and penalty charge notices were issued.
Not a victimless offence
Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member for Finance and Highways, said:
Misusing a Blue Badge is not a victimless offence. Every badge that is used improperly can prevent a disabled person from accessing the parking concessions they rely on.
Enforcement days like this send a strong message that misuse will not be tolerated. Those who choose to do so, or believe the regulations don’t apply to them, can look forward to the badge being confiscated and a day in court with fines and costs of up to £1,500.
If you suspect someone of illegally using a Blue Badge, you can report it by calling 0300 300 4154 or emailing benefit.investigations@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.