Blue Badge Holders to Lose Free Parking in Tonbridge and Malling under ANPR Trial
Blue Badge holders in Tonbridge and Malling face losing their free parking perks. The council is rolling out a 12-month trial using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras at two popular car parks. The snag? The tech can’t spot Blue Badges, meaning disabled drivers will have to pay up like everyone else.
ANPR Cameras to Roll Out at Key Sites
The trial will see ANPR cameras installed at Haysden Country Park and Western Road in Borough Green. Currently, Blue Badge holders park free at these spots. But the new system only reads number plates, not Blue Badges, so these drivers will be slapped with parking fees.
“Currently, disabled drivers with a Blue Badge can park for free. If we move to number plate enforcement, these badges can’t be identified, and they will need to pay at the ANPR sites,” said a council spokesperson.
£70,000 Price Tag and Possible Rollout
The cost of installing the ANPR system is tipped at £70,000 — covering an options report, system specs, plus management and upkeep. The council expects to have the cameras in place by the end of the year. If the trial goes well, this tech could soon appear in other council car parks.
Drivers Slam ANPR Plan as Unfair to Disabled
The move has sparked anger. Drivers say the technology isn’t up to scratch. They point out that LONDON" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Transport for London uses more advanced systems that do recognise Blue Badges.
“ANPR cameras take photos at the entrance and exit, but I’ve never known one to recognise Blue Badges. Looks like Blue Badge holders will have to argue their case. Absolutely disgusting,” fumed one local resident.
Green Party Councillors Demand Better Support
Green Party reps Lee Athwal and Mark Hood slammed the council for ignoring vulnerable drivers’ needs. They highlighted that other councils like Ashford and Canterbury allow Blue Badge holders to pre-register to avoid charges.
“We were told the council will look at how residents can register in advance to access ANPR car parks,” said the Green Party.
The councillors also criticised the lack of consultation before the move, stressing the importance of safeguarding disabled drivers.
What Happens Next?
The council will soon release details about how Blue Badge holders can sign up to dodge parking fees under the new system. Meanwhile, the trial pushes ahead, with officials keeping an eye on how well the ANPR tech works — and how the public reacts.
