Lorry plating & poss extra charges

[rolls1392]

Just heard a worrying rumour today about the VOSA test centre at Par in Cornwall. Apparently this is run on behalf of VOSA by a private company. They charge the same for a test(£75), but then charge an extra £40 for a " lane fee".
Is this normal practise?
Is this going to be what we lorry owners have to look forward too?
Anyone with inside knowledge able to clarify?

 

[the watcher]

If you are having a test at a commercial garage who provide facilities to VOSA, yes, there will be a lane fee - and so there should be as the garage are losing their usual business. On the positive side these garages are usually quite flexible so if something needs tweaking they will do it there and then to get the lorry through - you don't get that at a GVTC - our local ministry testing station will fail lorries on tiny, easily fixed faults, and then insist that you rebook and come back another day

(which is why I don't go to the local one)

 

[rolls1392]

I suppose there are ups and downs each way
Thanks