Fire stations to host driving tests

Plans to deliver practical driving tests from fire stations were given the go ahead last week by Stephen Hammond, road safety minister.

Greater Manchester is the first Fire and Rescue Service to become involved and driving tests will be available from the Salford fire station from 16 April. A number of other fire stations in the Manchester area could also offer tests in the future. All tests will be conducted by Driving Standards Agency (DSA) examiners.

The move is part of an initiative to offer a more local service for driving test candidates. Earlier this year, it was announced that practical driving tests are being offered from some branches of Halfords, and Nottingham Trent University also started hosting tests earlier this month.

Stephen Hammond said: “By working alongside Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service the DSA is ensuring people taking their driving test have access to a more convenient option.

“This partnership is a great example of how the public sector can work together to reduce costs and provide a better service.”

Councillor David Acton, chair of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, said: “This is a really exciting partnership as it is the first fire service in the country to see its stations host driving tests.

“It’s an example of the service’s innovative approach to road safety, because fire fighters are called to road traffic collisions to cut people from the wreckage of cars and sadly many of them involve young drivers.”