9:00am Wednesday 2nd May 2012
By Ryan McCarthy
CHELMSFORD could be home to a new centre where youngsters learn to drive.
Essex County Council is keen to utilise space at the bus park and ride station in Maldon Road, Sandon, and use the site as a driving training centre on Sundays.
The authority has put a planning application into Chelmsford Council for permission to use the park and ride facility on Sundays for driver training.
Tracey Chapman, outgoing cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: “We are applying for planning permission so we can run courses for 16-year-olds to lay the foundation for future safe driving skills.
"The courses, which would be run once a month, would allow young people to get experience of driving a car in a safe and controlled environment.
"The aim is to promote responsible driving and encourage young people to develop the right skills when they do become drivers.
"The proposals are at an early stage at the moment but if planning permission is approved the courses could start this autumn.”
The application was due to be decided last night and was recommended for approval by council officers.
A report from Chelmsford Council said: "The proposed use of the site would utilise an existing facility and would not undermine the character or function of the current use as a park and ride."
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