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The ongoing backlog in MOT testing in Northern Ireland appears likely to persist for the foreseeable future, with no firm opening dates yet set for two new vehicle testing centres. These facilities, located in Hydebank, south Belfast, and Mallusk in County Antrim, are expected to significantly expand testing capacity once operational, each capable of handling over 100,000 vehicles annually. Originally, Hydebank was scheduled to begin operations in 2022, then delayed to 2024, while the Mallusk centre, initially planned for 2024, has also experienced postponements.
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has refrained from specifying exact opening dates, though it anticipates both centres will be ready to test vehicles within the next year. The delay has necessitated extensions to existing testing arrangements so the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) can continue managing the heightened demand for MOTs until the new centres come online. Deputy Transport Minister Nichola Kimmins explained this extension is intended to maintain service levels amid the ongoing pressure on MOT testing availability.
Local representatives and motorists have voiced growing frustration with the situation. DUP MLA Deborah Erskine highlighted the continuing impact on drivers, stressing that despite the introduction of Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs), permanent additional testing facilities remain essential. She emphasized the need for a sustainable solution, noting that people are currently forced to travel far distances to have their vehicles tested, taxed, and insured. Likewise, individuals such as Laura Doherty and Patricia Bennett report substantial delays in securing MOT appointments, sometimes requiring travel to distant centres, which causes inconvenience and disrupts business operations.
The DfI confirmed that in March 2026, the DVA awarded the contract for the new Vehicle Testing Solution to MAHA Ireland Ltd. Construction at Mallusk was completed in December 2025, and installation of testing equipment is underway at Hydebank with Mallusk to follow. A spokesperson indicated that once both centres become fully operational, they will greatly enhance testing capacity in Northern Ireland. Meanwhile, industry voices like Peter Carmichael of NI Driving School have criticized the prolonged underuse of newly built centres and expressed optimism that expanding testing sites will ultimately improve road safety and convenience. Police have reminded motorists that ensuring vehicle roadworthiness remains a legal responsibility, though enforcement will take into account ongoing testing delays when assessing vehicles without a current MOT
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