Concerns for L-test centre future

Learner drivers face journeys up to 45 minutes to other centres

Concerns are being expressed over the possible closure of a Surrey driving test centre after its lease runs out.

The lease expires on the Weybridge test centre on Christmas Day, and driving instructors and examiners have been told closure is an option.

Local MP Ian Taylor said that area of Surrey was highly congested and other test centres were difficult to get to.

A DfT spokeswoman said no decision had yet been made and the centre would remain open after the Christmas break.

'Difficult to access'

Mr Taylor, MP for Esher and Walton, said he and Philip Hammond, MP for Runnymede and Weybridge, were contacted by driving instructors who had been told the centre would close.

"Particular concerns have been expressed by those in Elmbridge since Chertsey is very difficult to access, especially in peak times, being in such close proximity to the M25," he said.

"Weybridge is ideally located for schools that are out of reach of Guildford and Tolworth.

"Such pupils face a journey time of 30-45 minutes to get to Chertsey, even in off-peak times."

The DfT spokeswoman said: "A range of options are being considered for the Weybridge Test Centre.

"Arrangements have been made for it to continue in the current building after Christmas until a decision has been made."