‘Jobs will be saved’ as driving tests resume at Craigavon DVA Centre

After weeks of lobbying by driving instructors in the Craigavon, Portadown and Lurgan areas, the Department for Infrastructure says it is planning to resume driving tests from the Craigavon Test Centre on October 1.

There had been concern after other driving tests centres resumed work after Lockdown restrictions were eased and Craigavon remained a COVID-19 test centre.

Many driving instructors locally complained that it disadvantaged local learners who had waited a long time to get a test but were unable to do it in their area.

A Department for Infrastructure spokesperson said: “The DVA is planning to resume driving tests from Craigavon Test Centre from 1 October. The DVA is in the process of contacting Approved Driving Instructors in the local area and priority group customers to facilitate driving test bookings.”

Driving Instructor Anthony Hendron who, with most of the other driving instructors in the Upper Bann area, had campaigned for driving tests to resume in Craigavon.

Mr Hendron said: “While being sympathetic to those in need of Covid 19 tests, the reopening of Craigavon driving test centre will mean jobs will be saved, driving schools will not go out of business and most important learners have the reassurance and peace of mind they don’t have to travel to another test centre.

“On behalf of all the driving instructors across the area I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who supported and helped in any way, it was very much appreciated.”

Ulster Unionist MLA Doug Beattie said: “It has been confirmed by the department that the DVA testing site in Craigavon is going to be relocated before the end of the month.

“This is welcome news for local driving instructors and driving assessors who have been struggling to get back to work and adapt to the new COVID normal.

“It is understandable there will be a back log in driving test etc. but this is a welcome step forward for all those who depend on this site for their day to day work.

“Having attended a small demonstration with the driving instructors I promised to use my influence with the Department for health to address their concerns. This has now led to a new site being identified and works to relocate the site will begin this week with a view to being completed by 28th September. This will allow tests to recommence around the 1st October or as close to it as possible.”

https://www.portadowntimes.co.uk/news/environment/new-temporary-test-centre-sought-after-lobby-craigavon-driving-instructors-2958377A message from the Editor:

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