THE number of driving tests being cancelled in Barnsley has risen by more than 200 per cent since the pandemic, the latest figures have revealed.

Figures from the government, obtained by the Chronicle, show that a total of 545 tests have been cancelled at Barnsley’s driving test centre in Gawber over the latest 12-month period.

The most common reason for cancelation was due to ‘leave’ meaning the examiner may be unwell which accounted for a total of 221 of the cancellations.

Tests are also called off in dangerous conditions like heavy snow, ice, flooding, fog or high winds.

If the examiner deems the conditions unsafe, the driving test will be cancelled for safety reasons.

That accounted for 183 cancellations last year.

During the pandemic the number of cancellations sky-rocketed and during 2020/21 there were 1,760 cancellations, mainly owing to the pandemic.

However the Covid years are classed as an anomaly and before 2020 the number of cancellations never surpassed 250.

In 2016/17, there were 176 cancellations - meaning that last year’s figure is 209 per cent more than pre-Covid levels.

The UK driving test system has been under heavy pressure for years.

The pandemic created massive backlogs, demand from young drivers remains high, and examiner shortages continue to strain capacity.

Driving test waiting times in the UK are currently long, with averages around 20 to 22 weeks, though some regions may experience even longer waits due to a persistent backlog from the pandemic and increased demand.

The number of last-minute cancellations has made the backlog worse, but the DVSA say they are working to reduce it.

Their plans include recruiting more examiners, improving the rules for booking tests and introducing tougher terms and conditions.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “We inherited an enormous backlog of learners ready to ditch their L-plates but being forced to endure record waiting time for their tests.

“We simply cannot deliver on our Plan for Change if thousands remain held back, with their aspirations on pause.

“I am instructing DVSA to take further action immediately to reduce waiting times which will see thousands of additional tests made available every month.

“We’re acting fast to get Britain’s drivers moving.”

Coun Clive Pickering, who represents the area in which the driving test centre is situated, told the Chronicle: “It's unfortunate that so many tests are being cancelled.

“This is an expensive loss of time for DVLA staff, and could cause long-term issues with regards to road safety.

“Most of all, we want people mobile as it helps them get to and from work, and more, but we want it done safely.

“Given that the council has turned Barnsley into a commuter town, it’s even more important that tests are available for those needing it to travel to surrounding towns.”