Ban on learner driver daytime test centre practice

Those learning to drive would previously use the grounds of the test centre to practice

People learning to drive have been banned from using the grounds of the Vehicle Test Centre to practice manoeuvres during working hours on safety grounds.

The Department of Infrastructure said the facility was now out of bounds for those not there on official business between 09:00 and 17:30 BST on weekdays.

In a statement, the department said it was due to "a combination of factors", including a "significant" rise in staff and customer vehicles at the site.

It said that alongside "live tests" and scheduled exams, any practice taking place there would disrupt daily operations and "potentially poses a risk to safety".

The Vehicle Test Centre on Ballafletcher Road in Braddan opened in 2022, at a cost of about £3.5m.

The Vehicle Test Centre opened in 2022

A department spokesman said: "We fully understand that this decision may be disappointing."

However it had "been made in the best interests of the safety and efficiency of all individuals on site".

The move applies to anyone learning to drive with both private and professional instructors.