THE MP for North Shropshire has hit out at the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) over their response to the closure of Whitchurch driving test centre.

Helen Morgan has been told by Loveday Ryder, chief executive of the DVSA, that the centre represents a "poor value for money" and that Whitchurch pupils would be able to take their tests in Crewe, Shrewsbury and Wrexham when it closes.

Ms Loveday added Whitchurch was one of many centres which would see its lease end soon.

It added that no tests would be cancelled, but noted this might cause inconvenience for people.

But Ms Morgan, who will meet with the Whitchurch Test Centre Community Action Group on Thursday (January 27), was scathing of the DVSA's response.

She said: "The response I have received from the chief executive of the DVSA represents a fundamental misunderstanding of the problems faced by rural communities, especially the difficulties we face in getting to Crewe, Wrexham and Shrewsbury.

"Ahead of my meeting tomorrow with the local community action group on this matter, it is beyond belief that the Government is allowing such a vital service to our community to be shut down.

"I will be requesting a follow-up meeting with her as a matter of urgency and hope she will listen to the important concerns raised by my constituents."

In a letter written to the Liberal Democrat MP, Ms Ryder said: "I would like to assure you that we are committed to providing value for money to our fee-paying customers and offering the best, most efficient service possible.

"Whitchurch test centre is one of a number of driving test centres where the lease is due to end soon or there is another test centre nearby.

"We understand this change may cause an inconvenience for some, but no tests will be cancelled as a result of the closure and the number of tests available locally will stay the same."

Ms Ryder dismissed claims learner drivers from north Shropshire would be at a disadvantage due to being taken away from familiar driving routes when taking their practicals.

"I can assure you that our customers will still receive the same service from the nearby centres," Ms Ryder added.

"Candidates can practise on any roads and do not need to learn to drive on roads close to any particular test centre.

"A full licence allows a driver to use any roads, not just those they are familiar with."