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Jersey's Infrastructure Minister says he would like to grow the number of disabled parking spaces in "prominent" locations in town – and introduce heavier penalties for islanders who use them illegally.
St John Constable Andy Jehan made the comments following a recent meeting with the Disability Parking Group.
The lobbying group campaigns for improved disabled parking provision, with a recent focus on Broad Street.
Jersey has a blue badge disabled parking scheme, which applies to those who have a permanent, substantial disability that means they cannot walk, find walking considerably difficult, or are registered blind with EYECAN.
Under the Road Traffic (Jersey) Law 1956, anyone who wrongfully uses a blue badge – such as displaying one when they are not entitled to do so – is liable to a fine of up to £1,000.
Meanwhile, someone who commits an offence relating to a designated parking place – such as parking in one that they shouldn't – is liable to a fine of up to £200.
Pictured: Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan said he would be in favour of heavier fines for islanders who abuse disabled parking bays.
Mr Jehan said he would "absolutely" support an increase in the fines, adding that illegal use of a disabled space was "abhorrent".
As of June 2023, there were 109 disabled parking spaces on Infrastructure and parish roads in St Helier.
Mr Jehan added: "The other thing we are keen to do is increase the number of disabled bays in prominent areas such as New Street, Vine Street and Library Place."
Disability Parking group member and Shopmobility Trustee Jackie Hilton-Egre said she was "pleased" to hear the minister's stance on the issue, but added that "the only slight disappointment was not having a timescale".
She explained that meeting with the Minister, which took place on Saturday, and further campaign efforts had been productive.
Waitrose have agreed any Blue Badge holder who cannot park in a disabled spot can park in a parent and child space as long as they display their badge, she explained.
The group would also like to see additional Community Support Officers to directly tackle the problem of abuse of Blue Badge spaces during the evening and weekend, and Ms Hilton-Egre said a "discussion was had" around securing help from the Constable of St Helier to do this.
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