BLUE Badge holders will now once again be able to park for free in Wiltshire Council-operated car parks following a vote taken earlier this week.

The move comes after Blue Badge holders were asked to pay to park in 2022, but they were given a one-hour grace period beyond the expiry of their ticket to help offset any issues.

Many criticised the move at the time, saying it would only hurt those most vulnerable in society.

Now, Wiltshire Council has reversed the decision made under the Conservatives following a vote at full council on Tuesday (October 21).

This reinstatement was a pledge of the Liberal Democrats in the run up to the council elections earlier this year.

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Free parking for Blue Badge holders was removed by the then Conservative-run authority along with a 10p increase per hour for all car park users – a move they said was necessary to help fund other services in the county.

The move is estimated to cost the council up to £40,000 a year.

Councillor Martin Smith, cabinet member for highways at Wiltshire Council, said: “I’m delighted that full council has supported this important change.

“Reinstating free parking for Blue Badge holders is a significant step towards making Wiltshire a more inclusive and accessible county.

“There are more than 30,000 Blue Badge holders in Wiltshire, many of whom face mobility challenges or rely on others for transport. This policy recognises the barriers they face and promotes fairness, independence and dignity.

“We know that many Blue Badge holders also experience lower levels of income, and this policy change will help them financially, too.

“Parking for all Blue Badge holders is now free in all of our car parks and we’re updating the signage as soon as we can.”

Eligibility for a Blue Badge is based on a range of criteria, including being unable to walk more than 50 metres, being registered blind, receiving a war pensioner’s mobility supplement, or having a permanent and substantial disability.

All Blue Badge holders must continue to clearly display their badge when using designated bays.