When Andrew was canvassing residents for issues prior to becoming first elected in 2015, a resident pointed out that Braintree District Council had recently introduced parking fees for disabled motorists. Although he was told when making his initial enquiries that it was not on the ability to pay, he knew that this went against one of the reasons a blue badge can be granted, in that a holder is unable to operate a parking machine. He therefore promised that if elected he would campaign to have this reversed. Despite taking longer than he had hoped, after eight years of continuously keeping the subject at the top of his agenda, it was announced at Thursday's meeting of Cabinet that parking in all of the Council-run car parks will be free for vehicles displaying a valid blue badge, with no time limit. This will come into force once the off-street parking order is amended, which is expected to be by the summer of 2023. Previously, the only concession was an extra hour beyond those purchased ie 4 hours for the price of 3. All other neighbouring authorities already provide a period of free parking, Braintree was unique in charging at all times. Instead, it will now be the most welcoming of all authorities for disabled residents and visitors.
