Drivers Beware: Thousands Fined in Cornwall for Misusing Disabled Bays

New figures have revealed that Cornwall Council has issued more than 7,800 fines to drivers for misusing disabled parking bays since 2019.

Over 7,800 Fines in Five Years

According to data obtained via a Freedom of Information (FOI) request by Evans Halshaw, a total of 7,841 fines were handed out across Cornwall between 2019 and 2024 for parking in disabled bays without displaying a valid Blue Badge.

The number of fines issued each year was:

• 2019: 1,342

• 2020: 895

• 2021: 1,079

• 2022: 1,449

• 2023: 1,453

• 2024: 1,623

“Keeping Accessible Spaces Available”

Julie Wallman, Evans Halshaw Divisional Marketing Director, said:
“Disabled parking bays exist to ensure safe and accessible travel for people with limited mobility, whether they’re heading to a supermarket, medical appointment, or just going about their day.

“When drivers use these spaces without a Blue Badge, it reduces availability for those who genuinely need them.

“These figures show just how common this issue is across Cornwall and the rest of the UK, and highlight the importance of keeping accessible spaces available, particularly as more people rely on mobility solutions to support independent living.”

The findings highlight an ongoing issue with drivers misusing spaces designed for people who rely on accessible parking to maintain their independence.