Local Outcry as Disabled Resident Faces Repeated Fines for Parking Near Her Own Home
A disabled woman in Southport has sparked public frustration after receiving multiple £70 fines for parking near her residence. Despite having a Blue Badge, Maria Rodriguez has been penalized for parking on a short strip of double yellow lines close to her home. The fines have been issued because her Blue Badge and time card were not displayed correctly, as per regulations.
Maria, who has been living in the area for over 20 years, has been advocating for a designated disabled parking bay or a resident permit scheme for the past five years, but without success. Sefton Council has maintained that the fines are in accordance with national guidelines, which require Blue Badge holders to ensure that their badges and time cards are always properly visible.
Speaking about her situation, the 76-year-old explained: “I keep receiving these fines just for parking outside my own home, and it’s exhausting. If people had a disabled family member, they would understand the daily struggle and how difficult it is to be heard, especially when you’re on your own.”
Maria’s mobility challenges mean that parking far from her home is not a viable option, making the lack of a suitable parking arrangement even more problematic. She believes that stronger family support might have helped her advocate more effectively for the necessary changes.
In response, a Sefton Council spokesperson stated: “Blue Badge holders have certain responsibilities when using their badges, including ensuring the correct display of both the badge and the time clock in the vehicle, regardless of where they park. Failure to comply may result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).”
The issue has sparked calls from locals for more flexible parking solutions for disabled residents who face similar difficulties.