Supermarket shoppers at giants like Asda, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Aldi could see a major overhaul in parking if a new campaign takes off.
A fresh petition on the Parliament website is demanding the introduction of a permit system for parent and child parking bays.
The petition, created by Laila Noonan, highlights the frustration of those entitled to these spaces finding them occupied by childless drivers. Noonan’s plea on the petition reads: “I am calling on the government to introduce a permit that allows access to parent and child parking bays from 20 weeks of pregnancy until the child turns 8 years old.
“Pregnant individuals and parents of young children may face mobility and safety challenges that require accessible parking.”
She further argued: “In the later stages of pregnancy and throughout early childhood, we think additional space and proximity to entrances are essential for safety and accessibility. We think this permit would support the practical needs of expectant mothers and parents managing young children, ensuring safer, more equitable access to essential facilities and stop this misuse of these bays.”
Currently, parent and child bays are designated for use by parents or guardians with at least one child under 12. The RAC notes the ambiguity surrounding whether expectant mothers are eligible for these spots, suggesting it’s wise to check with individual store managers about their policies.
The article notes: “While it isn’t illegal to park in a parent and child bay if you don’t have a child under 12 with you, you could be hit with a Parking Charge Notice (PCN).”
“Disabled drivers should use the dedicated bays for blue badge holders.”
Regarding enforcement, the RAC explains that supermarkets are largely responsible: “Supermarket car parks are private property. Any rules about their use will be enforced by the supermarket themselves or by a private firm allocated to manage them.
“Many of these firms are members of the British Parking Association (BPA) and must adhere to the organisation’s operator scheme code of practice.”
However, the motoring body cautions against self-enforcement: “In the frustrating event that you spot someone misusing a parent and child bay, it’s best to talk to a store manager.
“Approaching somebody using a dedicated bay without young passengers could lead to a hostile situation, so try not to get carried away by the injustice of it all.”
On the subject of supermarket policies, Sainsbury’s has confirmed its parent and child bays are reserved for those with children under 12 and regularly monitors its car parks, warning that incorrect use may result in a PCN.
Asda also enforces a similar rule, with clear signage indicating that only those with a child up to 12 years old can use the special bays, with the risk of receiving a PCN for non-compliance.
At Morrisons, customers who park their car incorrectly may be politely requested to move or find a notice placed on their windscreen. Similarly, at Aldi, it’s understood by Reach PLC that shoppers observing misuse of parent and child bays are encouraged to report to the store manager.
Lidl patrons are urged to utilise parking bays honestly and responsibly. It is known that individuals are also at risk of receiving a PCN if found misusing these bays at Tesco.
The petition can be viewed here.