THERE will no longer be a driving test centre in Llandrindod Wells, nor will an alternative site be located following the closure, a minister at the Department of Transport has confirmed.

Fay Jones, MP for Brecon and Radnorshire, was hoping to seek an alternative location for the driving test centre following the decision by the Driving Vehicles Standards Agency (DVSA) to close the premises following a termination of the lease.

However following a meeting with Minister Baroness Vere and County Councillor James Evans to discuss a potential relocation, it was confirmed that the site will close permanently and that the DVSA are not seeking an alternative location in the town.

Ms Jones made clear that the loss of the centre would be detrimental to many young drivers in rural Mid Wales, which the Minister was sympathetic towards, however it was noted that the DVSA had previously noted that test routes available at Llandrindod Wells were limited.

Drivers will now have to travel to alternative centres, Brecon and Newtown, who both have capacity to serve demand.

Ms Jones said: “While I am grateful to the Minister for meeting me and providing me with greater clarity around the test centre, I am deeply disappointed by this decision.

“I have received many emails from learners and local driving instructors but the DVSA’s mind is clearly made up. I will now investigate whether alternatives can be provided in Brecon.”

It was agreed at the meeting that the DVSA and Department for Transport would work with local authorities to examine possible upgrades to testing at Brecon and Newtown.