Database tackles blue badge fraud

The scheme should be rolled out across London in 2008

A crackdown is being launched against the fraudulent use of blue badges.

The badges, which are issued to disabled people, allow parking concessions to holders.

But London Councils and Transport for London (TfL) have said lost, stolen and fake badges are increasingly being used by ineligible motorists.

From October, a database of lost or stolen badges will allow traffic wardens to issue cheats with parking tickets or have vehicles towed away.

A survey by the Local Government Association found nine out of 10 London councils rate blue badge fraud as a serious or very serious issue.

Vulnerable people

There are also reports of forged blue badges being sold for up to £1,500.

London Councils Transport and Environment committee chairman Daniel Moylan said: "Blue badges are designed to help some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

"But they are increasingly being exploited by selfish members of our community to break the law.

"Not only are these people shamelessly flouting parking rules, they are taking the spaces that are desperately needed by the people who genuinely need to park as close as possible to the shops, doctors and other amenities."

A three-month trial will run in Camden, Croydon, Kensington and Chelsea, Islington, Tower Hamlets and on TfL's Red Route network.

It is hoped the scheme will be rolled out across London in 2008.