LEARNER drivers in Chelmsford will soon be taking their tests at a new centre as part of a nationwide merger.

From next February, the LGV test centre on the Widford Industrial Estate will also become home to car tests, taking over from the current site in Hoffmanns Way.

The centre is one of 18 being relocated in the UK following the merger of the DSA and VOSA to become the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

The nationwide merger is expected to save the DVSA more than £300,000.

The site on the Widford Industrial Estate will be refurbished to accommodate the merger. The DVSA confirmed the eight examiners currently based in Hoffmanns Way would relocate and there would be no job losses.

A DVSA spokesperson said: “The merger will help to keep test fees to a minimum. The move is expected to save in excess of £40,000 a year in rent and associated costs.”