Blue Badges in overhaul

Changes to the Blue Badge scheme for disabled drivers are to be introduced in Midlothian in the new year.

For the first time, applicants will be able to apply for their Blue Badge online.

The badges have also been redesigned to make them harder to tamper with or copy.

Blue Badge application forms will change, with applicants required to give more detailed information.

The new scheme also extends the criteria of people who are automatically eligible for a Blue Badge to include severely injured service personnel and certain war veterans.