Stagecoach South East has opened a new Authorised Testing Facility (ATF) at its depot in Eastbourne, which it says will significantly improve the availability of heavy vehicle testing appointments to third-party operators in the area.
Completion of the ATF represents a major investment by Stagecoach in garage facilities in Eastbourne, the operator notes. It is fitted out with advanced equipment including a load-simulating Vamag brake tester and a new inspection pit. Also installed are non-slip resin flooring and an upgraded shutter door.
Stagecoach adds that completion of the facility removes its need to source testing capacity externally, increasing its own efficiency. The business says that existing ATFs in East Sussex are located on county borders and that waiting times can stretch to two or three months.
It believes that the ATF will “relieve pressure on local operators and provide much-needed regional capacity.” Early interest from third parties has been strong.
Stagecoach notes how the load-simulating brake tester removes the need for vehicles to arrive pre-loaded where that is a requirement of the test. As a result, the testing process for those is faster, safer, and more efficient.
The project brought together partners including Everquip, Stirling Doors, Fumex and JonesBuild Contractors for a series of complex installation and improvement works ranging from exhaust extraction to flooring and equipment integration.
Stagecoach South East Engineering Director Grahame Patterson says: “This investment is not just about modernising our facilities; it is about creating long-term sustainability for the region.
“By providing testing capacity locally, we are cutting unnecessary journeys, reducing emissions and easing congestion on the roads. The new ATF strengthens our operational resilience while supporting cleaner, more efficient transport across East Sussex.”
The operator adds that addition of a test lane gives a strong opportunity to grow its business in Eastbourne while also supporting other local heavy vehicle operators. It also believes that the ATF “creates opportunities for future retail testing, new commercial partnerships, and expanded service provision in the region.”
