Crewe's first ever driving theory test centre has been officially approved by Cheshire East Council - following its opening within the town centre last month.

Cheshire East Council Planning Department approved the plans on Monday (June 13).

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) theory test centre opened within Crewe's Victoria Shopping Centre this May.

This was before planning approval for the development was given.

Work taking place on the DVSA theory test centre in March (Ryan Parker).

A number of units open without planning approval across the UK. They take a punt their plans won't be refused.

The planning officer for the site said: "It is considered acceptable that the proposal is of an acceptable design that would have minimal impact upon the amenities of the surrounding residential properties."

Since opening, the DVSA theory centre has created six full-time new jobs.

It has eased a backlog of leaners wanting to take their driving theory exams in the local area.

Since the test was introduced in 1996, learners in Crewe have had to travel as far as Chester and Stoke-on-Trent to sit the exam.

In October last year, a temporary facility was set-up at Wychwood Park Hotel, Weston.

Crewe town centre. Learners in Crewe have had to travel as far as Chester and Stoke-on-Trent to sit the theory exam since it began in 1996 (Ryan Parker).

This was an attempt to ease the huge waiting times that built-up during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The DVSA first put forward its Crewe town centre proposals in January this year - aiming to tackle the huge backlog.

It was 10 years since previous occupier Jessops, closed suddenly from the Victoria Centre unit in 2012.

Back in February, local residents expressed their delight at the driving theory centre proposals.

An ex-driving instructor told Nub News: "The is great news for learners in the area."

Administrator at Cheshire East Council, Dawn Podmore said: "Fabulous. We certainly need it, beats travelling out of the area to take a test."

Today (June 15), Alan Bell from Crewe added: "It has filled a vacant shop."

The DVSA theiry centre centre is located with Crewe's Victoria Shopping Centre (Gerry Burns).

The driving theory test centre is from 8am until 10pm - Monday to Friday,

During the weekend, the facility is open between 9am and 6pm.

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