Learner drivers will soon be able to take their theory test in Crewe - for the first time in a quarter of a century.

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

Now plans have been put forward to open a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency theory test centre in a long-vacant unit, within Crewe's Victoria Shopping Centre.

The centre will also create six full-time new jobs.

In October last year, a temporary facility was set-up at the Wychwood Park Hotel in nearby Weston, an attempt to ease the huge waiting times that built-up during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The computer-based test centre at the heart of the town aims to quickly reduce the high demand for theory tests.

The plans have caused quite a stir from Crewe residents on social media. An ex-driving instructor said: "Great news for learners in the area." Dawn Podmore, a Cheshire East Council administrator since 1995, stated: "Fabulous. We certainly need it, beats travelling out of the area to take a test."

This news comes as a big boost to an area that has suffered from multiple shop closures over the past decade. It is 10 years since previous occupier Jessops, closed suddenly from unit eight, Victoria Centre in 2012.

On February 5th, the Head of Digital Operations at the DVSA stated: "The Driver and Vehicle Standards agency hereby supports this planning application for Reed In Partnership Limited for change of use of these premises to a DVSA Theory Test Centre."

Monday to Friday, the driving theory test centre will open from 8:00am until 10:00pm. During the weekend the facility will stay open between the hours of 9:00am and 6:00pm.

A 24-year-old from Crewe commented on the application and was positive about the plans: