Dench stands by blue badge holders in parking row

DAME Judi Dench has joined calls for York city council to reverse its ban on blue badge holders in the city centre.

The York-born actor said the historic centre was “a rare jewel that should be free for all to enjoy” and that accessible parking was essential for this to happen.

She said: “I should like to offer my wholehearted support to people in York who are asking the local council to reconsider any ban to the blue badge scheme in the city centre.”

The council banned blue badge holders from parking in pedestrianised areas within York’s central footstreets in November 2021. It claimed that this was necessary so anti-terrorism bollards could be installed.

The decision has caused uproar, with Reverse the Ban, a campaign group, claiming that it effectively barred disabled people from the city centre.

In a message for the group, Dame Judi said: “As someone living with sight loss, I know only too well how gaining access to places can be exceptionally difficult. The centre should be fully accessible through these types of schemes.”

A council spokesman said: “We want our city to be accessible and inclusive for all. York’s cobbles and narrow, mediaeval streets present challenges to those with mobility issues, while large visitor numbers create security risks, which we are working to address.”