DISABLED drivers will not be able to park for free in Taunton car parks with pay-on-exit systems.

Taunton Deane Borough Council is working on installing pay-on-exit system in seven of its council-owned car parks.

The car parks which will see the 'improved' systems are Orchard, High Street, Tangier, Canon Street, Wood Street, Castle Street and Enfield.

The council hoped to get the systems up and running in time for the Christmas period, but IT troubles is causing delays.


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A TDBC spokesman said: “The delay is due to the provision of IT infrastructure and until this issue is resolved we are unable to be certain but remain optimistic that it will be operational for the Christmas period."

The council says it hopes to make parking 'easier' for visitors, as well as improving traffic flow and air pollution.

But those using blue badges in the town may be feeling disgruntled, as the new system will not allow for the one-hour of free parking.

The spokesman added: "Spaces for blue badge holders will remain but the system does not allow for the one hour of free parking in the seven car parks covered by pay-on-exit.

"The free hour will still be available in other TDBC central car parks including the Crescent, Whirligig, Belvedere Road, Coal Orchard, Duke Street, Elms Parade and Fons George.

"At the Paul Street multi-storey car park, blue badge holders will be able to use a discount card via Shopmobility.

"Additionally, blue badge holders will be able to use on-street parking as they do now.”