Concern expressed over continued delay to Louth driving test centre

Louth senator Alison Comyn has said the continued delay to the opening of the new driving test centre in Drogheda is deeply disappointing for the town and is causing ongoing frustration for local learner drivers and families. The centre, which was expected to open more than two months ago, is still not operational and no confirmed opening date has been provided by the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

Senator Comyn confirmed that she has contacted the RSA again this week seeking clarification on the delay. She was informed that “contractual issues” with the lease on the premises are ongoing but noted that the RSA has still not confirmed the location publicly, despite the premises being widely understood to be at Southgate Shopping Centre.

“This is a service that Drogheda has needed for a very long time,” Senator Comyn said. “People in the town and surrounding areas have been waiting patiently for years for a local test centre. Instead, learner drivers are still travelling to Navan and Dundalk for their driving tests, adding pressure, cost and delay. The lack of progress is extremely frustrating for all involved.”

She continued: “I understand that contractual and logistical issues can arise, but the lack of clear communication around this delay has left people feeling ignored. A simple update would go a long way in reassuring the community that this project remains a priority.”

Her colleague Cllr James Byrne, who has campaigned for many years for a test centre in Drogheda, echoed these concerns:

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“The people of Drogheda were genuinely encouraged when news of the new centre was confirmed earlier this year. Since then, however, progress seems to have stalled. All we want is clarity on what is causing the delay and reassurance that this important local service will be delivered as soon as possible.”

Senator Comyn said she will continue to engage with the RSA and relevant authorities and will keep the public informed of any updates. “This is a long-called-for facility that will benefit thousands of people locally each year. I remain hopeful that the final obstacles can be resolved and that the centre will open without further delay,” she said.