New Southend Driving Test Centre officially launched
Roads Minister Mike Penning helped celebrate the official launch of the new Southend Driving Test Centre.
Mr Penning came to the town specially to lend his support to the new centre at the Tickfield Centre, Tickfield Avenue, Southend.
Southend’s former Driving Test Centre closed in 2008 when Basildon’s new Test Centre opened, but now the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has begun testing from Tickfield.
The move is part of a strategy to offer a more local service for driving test candidates.
In areas without local test centres where there is sufficient demand, the DSA is looking at offering tests on a part-time basis from flexible premises such as community centres and other local authority buildings.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor John Lamb said: “It is a huge help for learner drivers from Southend to be able to take their driving tests in an area they know well, and this will be very much welcomed by instructors too.
”We are grateful for the combined efforts of everyone who has helped towards bringing a Driving Test Centre back here.”
Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said: “I am delighted that driving tests have returned to Southend.
“We have worked very closely with the local MPs, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, driving instructors and members of the local community to achieve this.
“I want us to be more flexible and innovative in delivering driving tests to make sure that we are offering people the best service possible wherever they live.
“Our aim is to offer a local service that is convenient for candidates as well as being cost effective.”
Tests in Southend will initially be available two days a week on a Monday and Friday.
