An army-run mobile testing facility has returned to Bolton for three days – but people are urged not to turn up at the site unless they have an appointment.
The pop-up facility, which is testing key workers and others with symptoms of coronavirus, reopened at the former bus station in Moor Lane on Sunday.
The testing site will remain open until Tuesday but it is operating strictly by appointment only.
Appointment must be booked through the online national booking system.
Confirmation of the location of the site operated by the Ministry of Defence will be provided to individuals when an appointment has been made.
Testing should take place in the first five days of the onset of coronavirus symptoms.
The following essential workers and individuals are eligible for testing at the pop-up centre:
- An essential worker who is self-isolating with coronavirus symptoms
- Anyone with coronavirus symptoms if they live with an essential worker
- If you are aged 65 or over and have coronavirus symptoms
- Someone who cannot work from home and has coronavirus symptoms (for example, construction workers or delivery drivers)
People who meet the eligibility criteria can book a test online at https://self-referral.test-for-coronavirus.service.gov.uk/
The army-run site was in operation from Monday to Wednesday last week.
Cllr Susan Baines, executive cabinet member for public health, showed her support for the mobile testing facility when the plans were first revealed.
She said: “This mobile testing facility will really help our borough, as it will help our key workers who are showing symptoms to get a test quickly.
“If you have symptoms and you meet the criteria, please book an appointment, using the national website, and get tested.
“Testing is by appointment only so please do not visit the site without an appointment.
“I would also like to thank all the key workers, those at the council, in the NHS and our partner organisations – public, private and voluntary sector – for everything you are doing during this unprecedented time.”
The tests are self-administered meaning those eligible will carry out their own test.
Test results should be received within 48 hours.
The facility will accommodate people arriving by car and strict social distancing measures will be observed at all times.
As well as the MOD’s three-day testing facility, Bolton Council has also opened a drive through test centre outside the University of Bolton stadium.
This centre will be prioritised for essential workers in key sectors by employer referral only.
