A new multi-purpose driving and riding test centre has opened in Gillingham following its successful delivery by award winning developer Berkeley First, a division of the Berkeley Group plc, one of the UK's leading property companies, on behalf of the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).
The DSA centre, situated at Courteney Road, offers car and motorcycle tests. It provides spacious, modern facilities for DSA's customers and staff. The centre includes a manoeuvring area for the off-road Module One motorcycle test and administration buildings located on a circa 1.83 acre site. Learner riders can practice their manoeuvres then attempt their Module One test. If successful they can go on later to take their Module Two on-road test to gain their full motorcycle licence.
The centre incorporates a number of sustainability features as part of Berkeley's and the DSA's commitment to the environment. Materials from the demolition of the former buildings on the site were recycled and used as the base of the test track, while the administration buildings include solar heated hot water and 'sun pipes' which allow natural daylight to flow down through the buildings, reducing the reliance on artificial lights.
Matthew Biddle, Managing Director of Berkeley First, said:
"Berkeley First is proudly promoting regeneration in Medway by transforming redundant sites into exciting new homes at Victory Pier and first class commercial premises at Astra Park. We're delighted that we've now been able to deliver this important new test centre for the Driving Standards Agency. This is a valuable facility for the people of Medway and will support responsible driving across the region's roads."