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The new charges coincide with the introduction of a national scheme, promoted by the Department of Transport, which will improve manufacturing, distribution and, crucially, security measures to tackle fraud and misuse. There are around 2.3 million blue badge holders in England , but research shows that about one in every 200 badges are stolen each year. Havering is one of only three London councils to provide free parking in council owned car parks to blue badge holders with automatic eligibility. In order to continue this arrangement, applicants will be provided with a special sticker to adhere to the badge. There are around 12,200 blue badges active in the borough with 4,000 renewed each year. The badges are renewed once every three years. 9.12.11 |
For the first time in 30 years, charges for blue badge renewal and applications are set to increase. The new charges will see the current renewal fee of £2 increase to £10 as from 1 st January 2012.