Norwich is in the TOP 20 WORST UK cities for blue badge parking

A new study has revealed which UK towns and cities offer the most, and least, accessible parking for blue badge holders. Nationwide Vehicle Contracts analysed Parkopedia data for 56 car parks to calculate the percentage of accessible car parks available in each location.

Since the UK government announced that those with hidden disabilities could also apply for a blue badge back in 2019, there has been a surge in demand for disabled parking. But which cities are falling short? 

Nearly a THIRD of Norwich’s car parks do NOT have disabled spaces

Of the cities analysed, Norwich came fifteenth on the list for failing to offer substantial parking options for disabled motorists. Only 32% of the car parks in this area offered accessible spaces, despite there being over 1,727 blue badge holders registered in the city. 

However, it’s Derby which topped the list. Only 42% of car parks (22) offered spaces for blue badge holders with 58% offering none, despite there being over 5112 blue badge holders registered in the city. Southampton ranked second with 46% of car parks without accessible parking, while Liverpool ranked third with 44%.

96% of Worcester car parks have disabled spaces, making it the most accessible place for disabled motorists

Of the places that offered more disabled parking options, Worcester topped the list. A huge 96% of the city’s car parks offer accessible spaces for blue badge holders.

Surrey Town, Epsom, came in second place with 95% of their car parks there offering accessible parking. South London’s Croydon came in third with 94% of car parks having disabled spots. 

Keith Hawes, Director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: 

“As those with hidden disabilities such as Autism, MS and mental health issues are now allowed to apply for a blue badge it is vital that towns and cities ensure there is more accessible parking available. 

In Birmingham there are around 15,841 blue badge holders and only 46 car parks with disabled spaces , meaning there are approximately 344 disabled motorists per car park.

Cities need to make themselves more inclusive and accessible, particularly as the high street is struggling.

We’re also likely to see more Brits hiring cars and driving to their staycation destinations this summer, as travel abroad is still limited. Towns and cities, especially those known for being UK tourist traps, should take a look at their facilities to make sure they can provide inclusive parking for all.”

To read the full study, please visit the campaign page here.

 For affordable vehicle leasing visit the Nationwide Vehicle Contracts website.