WIREDGOV

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has announced the closure of its area office at Caradog House in Cardiff.

Staff have been informed that there will now be a consultation with trade unions on implementing the closure of the office, which carries out administrative work. The consultation will be completed by 19 April 2011.

Rosemary Thew, DSA chief executive, said:

"DSA is funded by the fees we receive from customers, and our duty is to spend that money responsibly, while maintaining a good level of service.

"That means being as efficient as possible in every area of our work and considering closely any areas of spending which may not be necessary.

"Staff at Caradog House will be properly involved throughout the consultation process on the proposed office closure and we will be working hard to make sure that their questions and concerns are answered."

The office will close by 31 March 2012. Possible redeployment options for 87 staff at Caradog House are being explored. A small office would be retained to support operational staff in the area. Other responsibilities would be transferred to DSA�s headquarters in Nottingham and northern area office in Newcastle.

Closure of Caradog House will not affect testing provision in Wales and DSA would continue to provide services under its agreed Welsh Language Scheme.