Testing time for learner drivers
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by Miles Brignall • A Lancaster LGV driving instructor says he is having to turn away business because he is unable to get re-test bookings following the closure of the Manchester test booking office. He claims that the Newcastle office is unable to cope with the extra work.
Norman Dickinson of Lancaster Training Services says it's impossible to get through on the telephone since the offices were merged in July last year as part of a cost-cutting measure. Anyone trying to get a last minute retest faces a day of continuous dialling to the Newcastle booking office, he says.
"It's got so bad that we have written to our MP to demand the Manchester office is re-opened," he says. When CM tried to get through, both numbers were constantly engaged. The Newcastle office now handles all enquiries for the north of England.
However, a spokeswoman for the Driving Standards Agency, responsible for tests, says it is aware of the problem and is taking steps to rectify it. "We have taken on an extra 12 staff for the Newcastle office and are putting in a new telephone system. An outside training firm has been brought in and things should improve soon," she says.
She also confirmed that postal applications were being processed as usual but the Manchester booking office will stay closed.