Call for temporary driving test centre for Craigavon

As the first driving tests since Lockdown begin on September 1, concerns have been raised that those from Craigavon will be unable to avail of this facility.

A number of local politicians have voiced concern that those from Craigavon may be disadvantaged and Sinn Fein has called fora a temporary driving test facility to be set up.

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart and DUP Cllrs Margaret Tinsley and Tim McClelland urged Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon MLA to reintroduce driver testing at Craigavon immediately, after local motorists were informed that tests would have to be undertaken at other centres – including Lisburn and Armagh.

Mrs Lockhart said: “This situation is untenable and places local motorists at a distinct disadvantage be it for driving, trailer and HGV tests.

“This week I have received representation from each of the sectors that use Craigavon and they are very distressed about the impact it will have on their respective businesses. Some of these sectors are the main supply for our haulage and agricultural industry.

“Craigavon Test Centre covers a very wide geographical area and is one of the busiest centres in Northern Ireland with a large number of tests being conducted every year,” said Mrs Lockhart who said she took comfort in taking her test on roads she knew. “That is a comfort that will not be available to local learner drivers who are taking their driving test. That is unfair.