IN RESPONSE to your correspondent Miss Katie Platt about the location of the nearest theory test centre.

Warrington Association of Professional Driving Instructors questioned the location of the centre in March 1996. Because of many complaints from our clients. We asked for and got the support of one of our local MPs at the time, Doug Hoyle. But the outcome was that the DSA, a profit making agency of Government, said the matter was out of their hands, as the theory testing arrangements were subcontracted to an independent franchise 'Drive Safe'.

The requirements for setting up theory testing centres are that for most people, a theory test centre should be available within 20 miles. In districts (usually towns and cities) where population density is more than 1,250 per square kilometre, a test centre should be available within five miles. In more rural areas with a lower population density, a test centre should be within 40 miles. Warrington does not fit in within the above criteria for population density. (Runcorn/Widnes does). It is not eligible under the present rules to have a theory test centre of its own. So even though Warrington has excellent road and rail links, and a population greater then Runcorn/Widnes combined, 186,799 as against 123,727 (1996 figures), we appear to be stuck with the status quo, a commercial decision based on profit and costs to the franchise.

The theory test now has a new franchise, Sylvan Prometric. But as the rules have not changed, we cannot see any possibility of Warrington being any nearer to acquiring its own centre. Perhaps Miss Platt could organise a petition to have the situation altered. WPDIA members would I am sure support her in this.

E DAVIES (Secretary WPDIA)

Culcheth