Disabled drivers plan protest at Shropshire parking fees

Disabled campaigners angry at being charged to use Shropshire Council car parks have vowed to take direct action against the controversial new fees.

Campaigners said a blue badge holder is ready to protest at Wem's main car park on Monday by parking without paying to do so.

The move would fly in the face of Shirehall's new charging regime, which many disabled drivers claim is unfair and contrary to Equalities Act legislation.

Since April all drivers have had to pay to park on the town's main car park for more than one hour.

Disabled drivers have criticised the charges because, although there is free parking for the first hour, many said it is not long enough for people with limited mobility to do their shopping.

Shropshire Council spokesman Simon Alton said the authority was currently reviewing charges for blue badge holders.

In a letter to Shirehall chiefs Keith Wood, from North Salop Wheelers Advocacy said angry blue badge holders were ready to take direct action unless officials were prepared to hold talks on reviewing charging.

He said: "Despite assurances of talks the Shropshire Council continue to prevaricate.

"In so doing the council continues to offend under the Equalities Act, and continues to treat disabled people less favourably purely because they are disabled."