The driver's licence office, which moved from its former congested Fourth Avenue location to Scott Vine Plaza over the June 21-22 weekend, held its grand opening last Thursday.

Tom Fang, issuing agent for the office, said there are several features that make the new location much more appealing.

First, at nearly 2,200 square feet, it is nearly double the size of the old one. There is more space for the lineup, which should be made speedier with the addition of another kiosk and camera.

As well, parking will be a lot easier. Though the approximately 270-spot lot is basically the same size as the one at Ridley Heights Plaza, there will be a lot less competition for spots because there are fewer stores and no restaurants.

"I think it's going to be much better here," Fang said.

In addition, there is a camera and backdrop specifically set up for people with disabilities. Fang said at the old location, the screen was too close to the counter, making it difficult to photograph people in wheelchairs.

Among those at the office June 26 to mark the grand opening was St. Catharines MPP and Minister of Transportation Jim Bradley, who might have found the surroundings familiar.It turns out the office is in the exact same location as his campaign headquarters during the last provincial election.

"I liked it when I was here, but I never thought it would ever be like this," he said of the freshly painted office.

Bradley noted the former location had a parking lot that often required backing in and out of tight spots. There is much more room at Scott Vine, he said.

"This is substantially better," he said. "People will prefer this."

The office also has extended hours on Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.