A CRACKDOWN on disabled parking space abuse has been launched by Stirling Council with “zero-tolerance”.

The local authority says it issued more than 1,100 tickets to offending drivers in 2019 and as part of continued efforts, enforcement officers will be monitoring disabled parking bays closely over the coming months.

The move will be coupled with a social media awareness campaign.

Councillor Jim Thomson, convener of the Environment and Housing Committee, explained: “It is completely unacceptable that a small minority of drivers continue to act this way with no consideration to disabled people.

“Parking in a bay intended for Blue Badge holders prevents them from carrying out day-to-day activities, accessing essential services and living independent lives.

“This campaign will demonstrate our zero-tolerance to this kind of selfish behaviour and highlight why these spaces are vital for disabled drivers.”

The drive is being backed by the Stirling Area Access Panel (SAAP), a local organisation working to improve the local accessible environment.

Robert Dick, chair of SAAP, added: “We fully support the council enforcing Blue Badge parking as, routinely, it is blatantly abused by other motorists, particularly in off-street locations like supermarkets, schools and railway stations.

“There seems to be a lack of understanding of the importance of disabled parking for people with disabilities, and parking near to an entrance can make the difference between whether a disabled driver or passenger is able to shop, and access services, or not.”

The standard fine is £60 for motorists who do not adhere to parking restrictions.