After forceful backing by local MP Lynne Featherstone, Mrs Bennett, a disabled Highgate resident, on Friday received the fantastic news that her £604 parking fine is going to be fully refunded by Transport for London (TfL).

The fine was incurred after the blue badge holder parked in a disabled bay with a concreted sign facing the wrong way, making it impossible for her to see that she was parked outside the allowed time. Responding to a letter from Ms Featherstone, TfL also promised to urgently review the current high level of clamping and towing, and guaranteed that no blue badge holders in the future would have their cars immobilised.

Elizabeth Bennett comments:

“I’m so relieved, this is such a weight off my mind, and my previous attempts to get the issue resolved were futile until Lynne stepped in. It’s a real relief to know that you can turn to your MP when you have issues with the authorities.”

Lynne Featherstone adds:

“I’m absolutely thrilled that TfL have come to their senses and refunded this huge fine – some disabled people are completely dependent on their cars and such an honest mistake should not be so heavily penalised. It’s also great that they have promised not to clamp or tow away any car with a blue badge, it’s common sense – and I am delighted to see that TfL agrees!”