LEARNER drivers will be able to take their tests in Aberystwyth again next month after the DVSA found a “temporary” home.

The DVSA has come to an agreement with Penparcau Community Forum to use part of the new community centre in what is described as an “innovative” temporary arrangement.

The news comes after the DVSA moved out of Yr Hen Ysgol Gymraeg, Aberystwyth, on 27 September, to make way for the old school’s redevelopment into a ‘café quarter’, with no alternative centre in place.

Despite driving instructors’ complaints, and with planning approval to move into Aberystwyth Town Football Club, the DVSA said practical driving test candidates would have to travel 30 miles to Lampeter, or further to Cardigan, before taking their test.

From Monday, 13 November, the temporary test centre will be providing tests in Aberystwyth while a permanent centre, which the DVSA would be likely to open in “early 2018”, is being developed.

DVSA operations manager Fergus Murray said: “DVSA is committed to helping people through a lifetime of safe driving, and meeting our customers’ needs.

“With huge thanks to Penparcau Community Centre we have come up with an innovative but short-term solution to quickly solve the issue which we know affected both learners and driving instructors in Aberystwyth."

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