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Daily Record
2 days ago
- General
- Daily Record
New Blue Badge parking space finder to help millions of people across UK
More than 3.2 million Blue Badge holders across the UK can now use a new online tool to help them find a free, designated parking bay anywhere in Scotland, England and Wales. New analysis by has revealed that for every Blue Badge parking bay there are 52 scheme users - travelling as a driver or a passenger - potentially competing for each space. While the chances of every Blue Badge holder trying to use all 63,000 parking spaces at the same time is unlikely to happen, the grim reality is that Blue Badge parking space s are not always available when someone needs to use one. To help permit holders find Blue Badge bays in any part of the country - particularly handy if you're travelling somewhere unfamiliar - has created an online tool to help people find them, just by entering a postcode. Blue Badge holders and parking bays across UK As of 2024, the number of Blue Badge spaces and permit holders across the UK, includes: Scotland Number of Blue Badge holders: 271,966 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: 16,808 England Number of Blue Badge holders: 2,635,428 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: 43,604 Wales Number of Blue Badge holders: 219,614 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: 2,588 Northern Ireland Number of Blue Badge holders: 149,038 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: Not available When it comes to the number of Blue Badge spaces available for those who need them, it's also important to be aware of the growing number of people wrongly using the designated parking spot. There have been 705,310 PCNs (Penalty Charge Notices) distributed for the misuse of Blue Badge parking bays. Blue badges are designed to make life easier for people with mobility issues, but for many, finding a space can sometimes be tricky. A survey found that a third (36%) of Blue Badge holders said they have turned up somewhere needing to park, only to find someone without a Blue Badge already in the space. Around the same number (34%) said there simply aren't enough accessible spaces in their area. When there's no space available, two-thirds (65%) said they have had no choice but to park in a standard space. But that doesn't always work - especially when extra room is needed to get out of the car. Worryingly, two-in-five (40%) have even had to leave a car park altogether because there were no accessible bays free. A third (36%) said they have avoided visiting certain places because they weren't sure they'd be able to park nearby. In response to their findings, have created a look-up tool to help Blue Badge holders find out how many designated parking bays are available in their local council area. Users can also use the tool to look up Blue Badge spaces in their area using the map online here. Commenting on the findings, Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at car insurance, said: 'Blue Badge parking spaces are essential for millions of drivers across the UK, but our latest research shows how easily that system struggles. 'This is especially highlighted when there isn't enough availability, and other drivers take advantage of the spaces. Shockingly, for every one Blue Badge parking bay in the UK, there are 52 permit holders who need access to it. 'If you're using a Blue Badge space without needing one, even for just a few minutes, you could be stopping someone from being able to work, shop, or attend a medical appointment. It's clear that more needs to be done, both to increase the number of accessible bays and to prevent misuse. 'If you're caught using a Blue Badge space without a permit, you could receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) costing between £70 and £100.'
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
New Blue Badge parking warning to over three million users across the UK
There are currently over 3.2 million Blue Badge holders in Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For every designated Blue Badge parking bay in Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland there are currently 52 permit holders requiring access, warns after analysing new data obtained through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to UK councils. The data revealed there are currently over 3.2 million Blue Badge permit holders in the UK, in comparison with 63,000 designated Blue Badge parking bays. Due to rising demand for accessible parking, m has created an online tool to help people find the nearest one - whatever their location. That's as the rate of new applications for Blue Badge permits has increased by 31 per cent between 2022 and 2024. In total, 1.3m new applications were made between 2022 and 2024, on top of the 1.5m renewal applications also made for existing holders. research also found that of the 2.8m applications made between 2022 and 20249 for both new and renewals, 245,566 were rejected. These were recorded for several reasons, including: Blue Badge holders and parking bays across UK As of 2024, the number of Blue Badge spaces and permit holders across the UK, includes: Scotland Number of Blue Badge holders: 271,966 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: 16,808 England Number of Blue Badge holders: 2,635,428 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: 43,604 Wales Number of Blue Badge holders: 219,614 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: 2,588 Northern Ireland Number of Blue Badge holders: 149,038 Number of Blue Badge parking spaces: Not available When it comes to the number of Blue Badge spaces available for those who need them, it's also important to be aware of the growing number of people wrongly using the designated parking spot. There have been 705,310 PCNs (Penalty Charge Notices) distributed for the misuse of Blue Badge parking bays. Blue badges are designed to make life easier for people with mobility issues, but for many, finding a space can sometimes be tricky. A survey found that a third (36%) of Blue Badge holders said they have turned up somewhere needing to park, only to find someone without a Blue Badge already in the space. Around the same number (34%) said there simply aren't enough accessible spaces in their area. When there's no space available, two-thirds (65%) said they have had no choice but to park in a standard space. But that doesn't always work - especially when extra room is needed to get out of the car. Worryingly, two-in-five (40%) have even had to leave a car park altogether because there were no accessible bays free. A third (36%) said they have avoided visiting certain places because they weren't sure they'd be able to park nearby. In response to their findings, have created a look-up tool to help Blue Badge holders find out how many designated parking bays are available in their local council area. Users can also use the tool to look up Blue Badge spaces in their area using the map online here. Commenting on the findings, Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at car insurance, said: 'Blue Badge parking spaces are essential for millions of drivers across the UK, but our latest research shows how easily that system struggles. 'This is especially highlighted when there isn't enough availability, and other drivers take advantage of the spaces. Shockingly, for every one Blue Badge parking bay in the UK, there are 52 permit holders who need access to it. 'If you're using a Blue Badge space without needing one, even for just a few minutes, you could be stopping someone from being able to work, shop, or attend a medical appointment. It's clear that more needs to be done, both to increase the number of accessible bays and to prevent misuse. 'If you're caught using a Blue Badge space without a permit, you could receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) costing between £70 and £100.'
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
10 ways young UK drivers can avoid high car insurance costs
Young people usually pay more in car insurance – sometimes a lot more – as they are statistically more likely to be involved in an accident and policies are based on overall risk. Those aged between 17 and 24 pay £828 on average, close to double the £476 typically paid by 25-to 49-year-olds, according to data from the comparison site However, comparing quotes can still save you hundreds of pounds. Comparison sites – others include MoneySuperMarket, and Compare the Market – let you easily see prices across dozens of insurers. Experts say getting quotes about three to four weeks before your policy is due to start often results in cheaper deals. Adding a parent, or any other experienced motorist as a named driver – as long as they drive the car occasionally – can help lower your premium. Insurers see this as spreading the risk as the vehicle is not just driven by someone with little experience. Look for someone with a clean licence and many years of no claims. Whatever you do, don't pretend someone else is the main driver – that is known as 'fronting', and is illegal. Generally, the smaller and less powerful the car, the cheaper it will be to insure. Go for something in a low insurance group (cars are put into one of 50 groups), typically the less expensive models with small engines and where the cost of parts and repairs are generally lower. The cheapest for 17- to 25-year-olds include Volkswagen's up! (averaging £576 a year), the Suzuki Alto (£597) and the Fiat 500 (£604), according to 'This shows it is smaller cars – specifically modest one-litre engine hatchbacks – which are taking the top spots as the cheapest cars to insure for young drivers,' says Tom Banks at Buying secondhand will keep costs down. Just make sure it is in good condition and has a full service history. 'Avoid making modifications, too, as these could lead to a hike in the price,' says Andrew Lee at the insurer Marmalade, which specialises in young drivers. A black box, or telematics, is a great way to reduce costs over time. A small device (or an app on your phone) tracks how safely you drive. If you stick to speed limits, avoid harsh braking and do not drive late at night, you could earn a lower insurance quote or repayments, adds Banks. 'If the data shows consistent safe driving, insurers might reward policyholders with benefits like lower premiums, cashback or a voucher, either during your policy term, or when it's time to renew,' he adds. According to the median price for a 19-year-old driver with a telematics policy is £864 a year. This compares with £1,096 without telematics. At age 23, the difference is only £21: £636 with telematics; £657 without. If you don't make a claim, you will earn a no-claims discount, which can further reduce costs. However, there are some potential disadvantages to a black box. It will record poor habits and so could result in higher premiums. 'If you don't drive carefully, or within pre-arranged limits of your policy, you could end up paying more,' Banks says. If you are already insured, do not just accept your renewal quote. Use comparison sites to see what others are charging for the same, or similar, cover, then go back to your current insurer and see whether it will match, or beat, those prices. Monthly payments may be easier for some younger people to handle, but they often involve paying interest on the premiums – sometimes as much as 30% APR. If you can afford to pay in one go, it is nearly always cheaper. If an annual payment is not possible, it is worth looking into alternatives such as a 0% interest credit card (provided you can pay it off before interest kicks in). Or set aside money each month. Where, and how, you park matters. Insurers like driveways more than street parking, so prices tend to fall if you have access to one. If your building has designated private parking, whether gated or residents only, that is also usually rated as safer than street parking. If you have a fob-controlled or gated car park, even better. Mention it when getting quotes. And adding a steering wheel lock, immobiliser or dashcam can help. The more secure your car, the less of a risk it poses – and the more likely something will be shaved off your premium. What you put as your job title can affect how much you pay – sometimes by hundreds of pounds. That's because data based on years of claims is used. Some professions are flagged as higher risk, either because of how often people in those jobs claim, or the way they are perceived to use their cars. Many forms include a dropdown menu for job titles, and choosing a different, but still legitimately accurate, title – such as 'writer' instead of 'journalist' – could lower your premium. Make sure it is truthful. False information could invalidate your policy. MoneySuperMarket has a 'car insurance job picker' to help you identify the role that best describes what you do, and find the average premium for each job. Your excess is what you pay towards a claim before your insurer chips in. It is usually split into two parts: a compulsory excess, which is set by your insurer and non-negotiable; and a voluntary excess, the extra you choose to pay on top. 'The most common excess chosen by our customers is £250,' says Rhydian Jones, a car insurance expert at 'But opting for a higher – or sometimes even lower – excess can help reduce the overall cost of your cover. Experiment with your excess amount when comparing quotes to see if you could save.' The higher the voluntary excess, the lower your premium tends to be. 'Make sure you can afford to pay the excess amount you have stated,' says Lee, otherwise you could be left in a tricky situation. The discount increases with each year you drive claim-free. After just one year, you could get a 20% to 30% discount. After five years, some insurers will knock 60% or more off your premium. Your no-claims discount is tied to you, not the car – so if you change your vehicle or insurer, you can usually transfer it. Even if you have an accident, it will not always wipe out your discount – especially if you are not at fault and the other driver's insurer pays. It is worth asking your insurer to confirm how much your premium would go up by if you made a claim.
Wales Online
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Major change to Severn Bridge begins today
Major change to Severn Bridge begins today A ban which stops any vehicles weighing more than 7.5 tonnes using the bridge comes into force The ban will be in force for at least 12 months (Image: John Myers ) There is concern that a major change to restrictions on the M48 Severn Bridge which comes in force on Tuesday (May 27) could cause delays for many drivers. A ban which stops any vehicles weighing more than 7.5 tonnes using the bridge means that hauliers will be forced to use the M4 Prince of Wales bridge instead. An expert has warned that this 13-mile diversion for HGVs travelling between England and Wales could have a "huge knock-on effect for other road users" due to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge being used by more traffic. The ban is expected to be in place for 12 to 18 months. The decision to ban hauliers was made after National Highways discovered the cables supporting the structure are deteriorating. Last year, the Severn Bridge carried roughly 32,000 vehicles a day - 3,270 of which were over 7.5t. This means that around 10 per cent of traffic will be diverted via the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge once the restrictions are in place. car insurance expert Rhydian Jones said: "With HGVs being redirected to the M4 Severn Bridge instead, this is likely to have a huge knock-on effect for other road users, resulting in heavier traffic and delays on that popular route. Article continues below "The M4 is already one of the busiest links between Wales and England, used daily by commuters, airport travellers, and delivery drivers. "With more large vehicles joining that route, drivers should plan for slower journeys, particularly during rush hour or busy travel periods." He said that drivers should consider leaving extra time for their journeys, check for travel updates and avoid travelling at peak times when possible. He added: "The impact could also be especially noticeable for those heading to airports like Bristol or Heathrow. "So planning ahead will be key to avoiding last-minute stress, especially if you're working to tight schedules like flight times." The weight restriction has been implemented to ensure that two lanes on the M48 bridge can remain open to all other vehicles, ensure the safety of the bridge, and reduce the load on the cables. Chris Pope, Programme Delivery Manager for National Highways, said: "Safety is our number one priority, and this weight restriction is about future-proofing the bridge for years to come. "While the bridge remains safe, it was not designed and built for today's levels or weight of traffic. "Vehicles have become heavier and traffic levels have increased significantly over the last 60 years, putting greater load on the cables. "As with all our structures, we will continue to monitor the bridge and ensure it remains safe for users." For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here The Severn Bridge first opened nearly 60 years ago, and has had to deal with ever-increasing vehicle weights and traffic numbers. Since the tolls were removed on the bridge in 2018 there has been a 34% increase in traffic, and these changes mean a substantial increase in weight over the bridge, which it was not designed for, National Highways said. Results of assessments of the bridge were finalised in December and revealed that the main cables are deteriorating and not as strong. Due to these results, it was recommended National Highways reduce the load on the bridge to minimise further damage. Chris added: "We'd like to thank drivers for their support and must stress that only heavy goods vehicles below 7.5 tonnes in weight should use the bridge. "Continued use of the bridge by heavier vehicles could ultimately see it closed to all traffic. We are acting now to prevent this from happening." The M48 Severn Bridge will remain open to all emergency vehicles, buses, coaches, gritters and recovery vehicles. If there is an unplanned closure of the Prince of Wales bridge, vehicles over 7.5t will need to follow the official diversion route via the M5 and the M50. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras are being explored to support the enforcement of the new weight restriction. Article continues below
Daily Mirror
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Research shows just how much insurance costs have rocketed since before Covid
Analysis has revealed how some insurance bought by millions of UK households has leapt as much as 66% in recent years - but the goods news is that some are now coming down Families have seen the cost of insurance surge by more than a third since before the Covid crisis, research has revealed. Analysis for the Sunday Mirror by price comparison website found a typical household is now shelling out over £1,300 a year for different types of cover - around £350 more than in 2019. It comes on top of big increases in everything from energy and water to food and a host of other household bills over the same period, compounding a cost of living crisis for millions. looked at four kinds of insurance - car, home, travel and pet - that many families will have. The actual amount will differ greatly depending, for example, if they have more than one vehicle, where they live, how often they go abroad and what type of pet - if any - they have. Nevertheless, it showed that - together - the insurance bill for a typical household is now £1,326 a year. In March 2019, it was £969 - leading to a near 37% jump. Motor insurance is by far the biggest single cost, according to the research, with average annual premium leaping from £589 in 2019 to £777 in February this year. The Covid outbreak saw a fall in the number of drivers on the road, and accidents. But the easing of restrictions led to a reversal, and claims rose. The pandemic also hit production of parts, which fed into a wider increase in inflation, that was also blamed for car insurance premiums rising. While motor policies are still 32% higher than in 2019, they have begun to fall. In fact, the average was a much higher £941 a year ago, according to Home insurance - building and contents - has seen an even bigger rise, rocketing 59%, from an average £173.71 to £275.27. The rising cost of materials and labour have been blamed, along with bad weather claims. But, like car insurance, prices have begun to ease. The average annual premium was just over £290 a year in May 2024. Pet insurance has attracted a great deal of interest of late, partly due to a surge in the number of people buying dogs - and other pets - during the Covid lockdowns. According to the average cost of pet insurance has risen from the equivalent of £180.60 a year in 2019, to £220.08 in 2024, and now stands at £230.88. Travel insurance tends to take up a smaller amount of household bills, but has rocketed by an average 66% since 2019 - or from £26.20 a year to £43.46. Steve Dukes, chief executive at said: 'Whether you're buying car, home, travel or pet insurance, it's likely you will be paying more today than in 2019. This is because how much you pay for your insurance is largely down to the cost of claims paid out by insurers. Inflation is making things like labour costs, medical costs, and materials much more expensive than before. And as a result, we're seeing our insurance costs increase too.' He added: 'While prices are generally higher now than they were in 2019, we can still find ways to save money. This starts with shopping around. This is the only way we'll know that the price we're paying is the cheapest available to us, for what we need.'
