CORNWALL Council has confirmed that a reduced charge would be implemented immediately, following a review of payments for residential disabled parking spaces.

Cornwall Council leader, Liberal Democrat ward member for Launceston North and North Petherwin, Adam Paynter, said following consultation with disability groups, a new charge for residential disabled parking bays of £350 will apply.

He said the fee is in line with other authorities that have a policy to charge for similar services.

“This is an issue which should not have occurred in the first place. It was a case of process before people, and did not consider the needs of people with disabilities being able to participate fully in their local communities.

“That is why I called for an immediate review and we are now reducing the payment,” he said.

Cllr Paynter said four applicants who had been charged more than the £350 charge now adopted would be refunded the excess payment as soon as possible.

The council website has been updated to reflect the changes. The same criteria will remain in place for assessing applications.

In the longer term, the disabled parking application process will be reviewed in consultation with the disability groups to align with the Government’s new Personal Independence Payment Scheme and similar comparisons with neighbouring authorities in the region.

Cllr Paynter announced the changes at a full council meeting last month.