Council calls for DVSA to review driving test opportunities across West Lindsey
West Lindsey District Council is to write to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) calling for a driving test centre to be opened for residents in the area.
Councillors supported a motion put forward by Councillor Lesley Rollings at a full council meeting held this month.
Coun Jackie Brockway, Leader of West Lindsey District Council, will write to the DVSA with copies sent to local MP Sir Edward Leigh and the Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire Dame Andrea Jenkyns for information.
Speaking at the meeting, Coun Rollings said: “Young people living in rural districts such as West Lindsey face significant barriers when accessing employment, education, and training due to limited public transport.
“The nearest practical driving test centres for residents are currently located in Lincoln and Scunthorpe. As a result, learner drivers from towns such as Gainsborough must pay for extended driving lessons simply to travel to and practise around these locations.
“This significantly increases the cost of learning to drive and places many young people and low-income residents at a disadvantage. In rural communities, the ability to drive is often essential for accessing employment opportunities, apprenticeships, and further education.”
The motion was debated by councillors and was seconded by Coun Trevor Young.