Coronavirus testing centre opens at park and ride site in Leicester

A drive-through coronavirus test centre has opened in Leicester for essential workers and the people they live with. Credit: ITV Central

A drive-through coronavirus test centre has opened in Leicester for essential workers and the people they live with.

It means key workers and those in their households can now be tested locally at Birstall Park and Ride.

The test consists of a swab to the mouth and nose and people are being advised to get tested within the first three days of the onset of symptoms.

It comes after the Government set out a target to carry out 100,000 coronavirus tests per day by the end of April.

Workers will be able to return to their critical roles as soon as possible if the test comes back as negative for everyone in their household. Credit: ITV Central

Workers will be able to return to their critical roles as soon as possible if the test comes back as negative for everyone in their household.

Appointments for testing must be made in advance and results will be sent to the individual by text message within 48 hours.

Officials say more mobile units will be made available in line with local demand.

Nick Rushton, Leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: “The County Council owns the park and ride site, operated jointly with the City Council.

"We are pleased to be able to make it available to assist the response to the pandemic and to make it easier for our key frontline workers to get tested.

“It is being set up in a really short time and it’s a great partnership effort with the Government and its contractors.”

  • The drive-through coronavirus test centre has opened at Birstall Park and Ride.

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