BOROUGH learner drivers have been stalled after confirmation that Shirley Test Centre will close, writes Simeon Bright.
The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) - the Government department in charge of test centres - is in the process of spending £60 million on building new multi-purpose test centres and according to the agency, the closure of Shirley test centre is entirely "a question of finance".
Shirley South Lib Dem councillor Andrew Hodgson criticised the move saying: "It's putting Solihull residents in an unfair position, an unreasonable position."
This move by the DSA has long been feared, not only by those learning to drive, but also by driving instructors.
The nearest test centre is located in Garretts Green - more than seven miles away.
Peter Williams, chairman of the Solihull and District Driving Instructors' Association said members were worried by the closure. He also warned the Garretts Green site is located on a busy industrial estate with heavy good vehicles regularly manoeuvring around, something he believes will cause accidents.
A recent meeting with the Solihull and District Driving Instructors' Association saw the DSA confirm their plans to close the Shirley centre with the possible co-relocation of it and Kings Heath.
However there is no guarantee a location will be found with the DSA admitting they had nowhere in mind and were relying on people informing them of any prospective locations.
The distance from Shirley to Garretts Green could prove to be a stumbling block, with the DSA needing the permission of local MPs and a consultation process in order to close the centre.
