West Dunbartonshire MSP backs parking plan

Nov 28 2008 by Amanda McKendrick, Lennox Herald (main ed)

NEW legislation which will crack down on drivers who abuse disabled parking spaces is a step closer to being approved.

The bill, which has been proposed by Labour MSP Jackie Baillie would see able-bodied drivers who park in disabled bays fined £30, rising to £60 if not paid within 14 days.

Holyrood’s local government and communities committee has been scrutinising her plans and this week published a report endorsing the bill.

Ms Baillie said: “I am delighted we are now one stage closer to achieving enforceable disabled parking spaces.

“I am also delighted the committee has endorsed the provisions that require local authorities to negotiate enforceable parking arrangements with owners of private car parks.”

She added: “The current situation whereby disabled people are often prevented from carrying out day-to-day activities such as shopping as a result of the abuse of designated spaces is unacceptable.”

Her Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Bill aims to make disabled parking bays under local council control legally enforceable.

Currently many disabled parking places are advisory, meaning other drivers can use them without punishment.

Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson has already said the Scottish Government backs the principle of the bill.