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Motorcyclists in the Western Isles will no longer be forced to travel to the mainland for a 20 minute driving test after the Driving Standards Agency (DSA)agreed to set up a test centre in Stornoway.

The DSA said that motorcycle testing will commence on 13 February on Lewis. The test centre is at the former RAF base at Stornoway airport.

The ruling means significant savings for the 50 or learners who undertake driving training courses  on Lewis.

Many were forced to lose about three day’s wages plus travel expenses and overnight hotel bills to go to Inverness or further afield for the brief off-road motorcycle driving test which checks how proficient riders are at hazard avoidance and emergency stop manoeuvres.

The DSA U-turn came after isles SNP MP Angus Macneil intervened in the issue.

He took it up with Westminster transport minister Mike Penning who in turn raised it with the DSA.

The DSA has now confirmed the start date with the MP.

Angus MacNeil said: “I am pleased that a date has now been set to commence motorcycle testing on the Isle of Lewis.

“This will be welcome news for people who can now take the test in familiar surroundings and without the expenses of travelling to the mainland.”

 

Hebrides News

Start date for motorcycle driving tests              17/1/13