Vosa Leeds

  • Sector

    Commercial / Industrial

  • Duration

    30 Weeks

  • Location

    Leeds

  • Form of Contract

  • Overview

As part of Britcon's Nationwide programme of modernisation projects for VOSA, the Leeds project at the time was the largest and most ambitious refurbishment work to date.

The aim of the modernisation programme was to provide Test Stations with modern facilities that fulfil customer requirements. Leeds GVTS was the 7th fully refurbished test station undertaken by Britcon within the programme and will be officially re-opened by VOSA's Chief Executive, Stephen Tetlow in 2006.

The old test station closed in June 2005 and during the 6 month construction period vehicle testing continued at various designated premises and other GVTS locations.

During the rebuild the test station was extensively re-modelled and the test hall and offices were completely demolished. The new station structure now incorporates the latest design and construction techniques. The raised test station doors now allow all vehicles to be tested and all testing is now conducted under cover. The pits in the test lanes have been extended and their depth has been increased. The innovative runway lighting under the start of the test lanes provide better visibility for the testing process. In addition to the four revamped test lanes two half lanes with an internally fitted weighbridge now enable

VOSA's Enforcement staff to carry out roadside inspection activities more effectively.
The office environment now provides enhanced space for station staffs and VOSA testing and enforcement staff are located in the same building. The newly refurbished test station has also enabled the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) to move into a larger and permanent accommodation in a separate building on the site and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) have also started using the site for vehicle checks 2 days a week.

Particular attention has also been paid to environmental issues. The station has been designed to operate in a more energy efficient way and the extensive use of movement sensors economise on lighting and water use. Using passive stack ventilation instead of air conditioning provides a healthier working environment for staff. The new station reopened for business on 3rd January 2006.

Steve Jordan, Station Manager for Leeds test station said:
"Leeds test station, with enhanced lane operation, offers a more effective service to customers. Certification and ADRs can be done completely under cover as can road checks and weighing. In addition the canopy provides protection from the elements and by incorporating added higher and lower level lighting it is giving an improved testing facility.''