Levels of coronavirus testing in Weston-super-Mare – which has seen a surge in cases - are to be ramped up.
A mobile testing unit was set up at Locking Road car park in the town centre last week for people needing tests locally.
The unit is being operated by military personnel and is available for pre-booked coronavirus tests only.
Now, following changes in the criteria of who can book a test, capacity has been increased to 1,500 a week.
A testing unit is also open at Bristol Airport.
A North Somerset Council spokesman said: “A mobile testing unit has been operating in Locking Road car park in Weston-super-Mare since last Tuesday to enable more Covid-19 tests to be carried out locally.
“It is increasing the number of tests available to the local community by 1500 a week and is particularly helpful for those who might struggle to get to the airport for a test.
"Good access to local testing options is an important part of our approach to controlling the spread of the virus."
The news comes at the same time as Weston General hospital has closed it’s A&E department and has halted all new admissions due to an outbreak of Covid 19 at the hospital.
Staff and patients at the hospital, run by University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, have all been tested for Covid 19 as a result of the outbreak.
Results have shown that approximately six per cent of the staff group are asymptomatic and infected.
Further repeat testing on staff and patients is to be carried out this week.
The unit, which is available for pre-booked coronavirus tests only, is likely to remain in Weston this week.
The car park will not be available for public parking during this time.
The unit will operate from 10am until 4pm each day and appointments can be made online or by calling 119.
The eligibility criteria for tests has been extended to include:
- Anyone of any age with symptoms
- Any essential worker with symptoms
- Members of the household of essential workers who are symptomatic
More guidance can be found on the government website.
Essential workers will be given priority. For tests to be effective you must be symptomatic.
