Major rule change to parking at Tesco, Asda & Sainsbury's pushes ahead – and could save you from being slapped with fine
A new petition is being pushed ahead which demands a permit for parent and child parking bays to stop "misuse".
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Juggling grocery bags and young children running around can be an overwhelming experience.
That is why many supermarket parking areas have parent and child bays which are located closer to the entrance.
However, these spots are often "misused" and taken up by childless drivers.
Petition calls for new permits
Frustrated parents have now called on UK government to introduce a major rule change to stop that from happening.
The petition, created by Laila Noonan, 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."
"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."
Current rules
Although it isn't illegal to park in parent and child bays, these spots are designated for guardians with at least one child under the age of 12.
Childless drivers could risk being hit with a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) when leaving their car in these bays.
The RAC points out the uncertainty surrounding pregnant women's eligibility for these places and advises to check with specific store managers about their policies.
Supermarkets are largely responsible for reinforcing these rules with Sainsbury's, Asda, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl and Tesco confirming they're constantly monitoring the parking areas.
The RAC said: "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."
The Rac warns against self-reinforcement
The RAC cautions parents against taking the matter in their own hands and confronting the violator.
They said: "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."
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