Residents in Poole are facing ongoing challenges with disabled parking access, as two local authorities manage separate issues that restrict spaces for Blue Badge holders. While Dorset Council has proposed removing disabled parking bays at 14 locations across the county, BCP Council continues to face criticism for closing 13 disabled bays at Poole Quay during community events without providing alternative options.
Dorset Council is currently seeking public feedback on its plan to remove designated disabled bays at various locations, including sites in Ferndown and Sherborne. This proposal is being considered under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. The council has set a deadline of 17 April 2026 for residents to submit their views, and all responses will be treated as public documents.
In the separate jurisdiction of Poole, local disabled residents are raising concerns regarding access to community events. Sharon Small, a 68-year-old resident from Creekmoor, reports that 13 disabled parking spaces are closed at Poole Quay for such events, often with cones placed as early as 5:00 pm despite the events not starting until 7:00 pm. BCP Council, which operates independently from Dorset Council, has cited health and safety requirements for these closures.
These local issues occur against a backdrop of rising demand for accessible parking across the country. According to the Department for Transport, there were 3.07 million Blue Badges held in England as of 31 March 2025, representing an 8.0 percent increase from the previous year. Disabled Motoring UK has noted that as the number of badge holders grows, the availability of accessible parking remains under significant pressure, leading the organisation to advocate for better enforcement and provision through its ongoing Baywatch campaign.
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