The New Blue Badge Scheme

From 1 January 2012, the Blue Badge Improvement Service (BBIS) established a single national database of badge holders and their key details to:

• prevent multiple and fraudulent applications
• enable quick and easy validity checks to be made anywhere in the country regardless of which local authority has issued the badge
• print, supply and distribute a new blue badge design

What is different about the new blue badge?

The new badge design which will be in use from January 2012, incorporates high-tech fraud prevention features that make it harder to copy, forge or alter. It has a hologram that cannot be photocopied or scanned and uses special security inks. It also has a barcode and other hidden features that will be evident on physical inspection.

If the badge is lost or stolen it can be cancelled and it will be easier for parking enforcement officers to make quick and easy validity checks.

Who is producing the blue badge?

Solihull Council will continue to be responsible for determining individuals eligibility and our assessment procedure will not change.

Blue Badges will be produced on behalf of the local authority by Northgate in partnership with Payne Security.

Will I be able to obtain my badge from a Connect Walk-In Centre?

No, as 1 January 2012 Solihull Council will no longer physically produce any Blue Badges.

You can still submit your application as normal and once approved, your details will be forwarded to Northgate/Payne Security who will securely print and post your Blue Badge.

How much will I have to pay?

The fee for a Blue Badge is due to rise to £10 on 1 March 2012. This fee is only payable when your application for a Blue Badge has been approved.

If you meet the automatic criteria for Blue Badge eligibility you will be required to pay your £10 fee when submitting your application.

If applying on the basis of discretionary eligibility, your fee will only be required once we have completed the necessary eligibility checks & your application has been approved.

Why has the fee increased?

We need to continue to deliver a fair and credible scheme, for those most in need of it, in a sustainable manner.

The raise of fee will enable us to recover some of the costs involved in purchasing the new-style badge and administering the scheme

The average benefit for badge holders from having a badge (and not having to pay parking charges) is estimated to be £300 over the three years for which most badges are valid.

What will I pay if my application has already been submitted?

 Any customers who have submitted their applications before 1st March 2012 will only pay the previous cost of £2.

Can I apply online?

An online application facility is available at www.direct.gov.uk/bluebadge. Solihull Council will still need to assess and approve all new and renewal applications and have responsibility for checking identity, proof of address and any evidence requirements.

For further information please read the attached FAQs.