Under new government plans, curbs are to be placed upon the activities of parking companies who will become subject to strict new limits on the penalties and fees they are able to charge.

The DSA has confirmed that, following a public consultation in October last year, it is to have a new test fee structure for 2009/10. The fee increases will apply to theory and practical driving tests booked on or after 30 March 2009. Fees relating to the Approved Driving Instructor scheme will increase from 24 April.

The Highways Agency have announced that motorway lighting at two carefully selected sites in the South West will be switched off between Midnight and 5am in a move to reduce carbon emissions and light pollution.

In the most significant development of their role since the Highways Agency Traffic Officer Service took to the roads in the West Midlands in 2004, Traffic Officers have received new powers from the Government to order the quick and safe removal of abandoned, broken down and accident-damaged vehicles from the motorway network.