Government announces last-minute opening date for Basildon's new multi-purpose test centre
THE DRIVING STANDARDS Agency (DSA) is to open its new
£1.5 million Multi Purpose Test Centre (MPTC) at Basildon, Essex on September 29th 2008.
The MPTC in Basildon will offer new and improved facilities to learner bikers
and drivers by offering a modern, purpose-built and energy efficient building which is fully Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant. It also has secure off-road parking and an enclosed tarmac area to conduct the new manoeuvres for bikers.
Motorcycle testing will change substantially on September 29 when a
European Community Directive introduces major changes in the way we test
learner motorcyclists.
These changes include new manœuvres which must be undertaken at speeds
of between 30 and 50kph (31.5m.p.h.)
For road safety reasons these manœuvres can not be carried out on public
roads and it is for this reason that, following extensive consultation, the DSA
set about finding suitable sites to conduct the off-road manœuvres at new
multi-purpose test centres (MPTCs).
In addition to this, again following full public consultation, the DSA is to cease
car practical testing at Southend Driving Test Centre, on 5 December 2008.
On this date the current car testing service will be re-located to the new Multi
Purpose Test Centre at Basildon.
DSA Chief Executive Rosemary Thew: “The new motorbike test will contribute to improvements in road safety and this multi-purpose test centre fits into our overall vision of improving facilities for riders and drivers across Great Britain. “
