DVLA closures threaten 1,200 jobs

13/12/11

By Steven Birch

Government plans to close 39 Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) regional offices have put more than 1,200 jobs at risk.

Roads Minister Mike Penning explained that the plans will make dealing with the organisation "easier and quicker for motorists and businesses".

He revealed that the offices are expected to be shut down by the end of 2013.

Ten regional enforcement centres would be included in the cutbacks, as the work currently completed at these places becomes centralised at the DVLA's Swansea headquarters.

The offices set for closure complete a variety of functions ranging from vehicle inspections, to arranging garage trade plates and enforcing offences, such as failing to tax vehicles or having no car insurance.

Mr Penning said: "This is a major step change which will make dealing with the DVLA easier and quicker for motorists and businesses up and down the country."