COVENTRY’S AT7 Centre will be the second community coronavirus testing site to open in the city this week.
The site in Upper Stoke will have eight testing booths and be capable of performing almost 900 tests a day from tomorrow (Thursday February 4).
It comes just two days after the opening of the test centre at the Xcel Leisure Centre in Westwood.
The city now has a total of six community testing sites, with others at: Coventry Transport Museum, the Indian Community Centre in Foleshill, the Moat House Leisure and Neighbourhood Centre in Henley and the Alan Higgs Centre in Upper Stoke.
A further site is expected to open at the Hagard Community Centre in Willenhall shortly.
Coun George Duggins, Leader of Coventry City Council, said: “Community testing is key in helping us to slow the spread of coronavirus and we are delighted that our fifth site is now set to open.
“Testing is essential, but we still need to do more, so please remember the ‘Hands, Face, Space’ advice and follow all guidelines. Together, we will beat this pandemic.”
Liz Gaulton, Director of Public Health, said: “To open two centres in a week is fantastic. They really are helping to make a difference and we’d like to thank everyone who has been going for regular tests.
“If you do need to go to public settings for any reason, please visit your local centre first and be as sure as possible that you are not unknowingly carrying the virus. It only takes a few minutes, and you usually get your results back within an hour.
“It really is a very simple way of helping to slow the spread and keep people safe. But also, please continue to follow the Hands, Face, Space guidance – even if your test comes back clear.”
Community testing is for anyone who is not showing symptoms of coronavirus. People take their own swabs and there is no need to book an appointment.
Opening hours at the centres are Monday – Friday, 8am to 6.30pm; and weekends from 10am to 3pm.
Anyone with any of the main Covid symptoms should seek a test in the normal way – by dialling 119 or by visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus.
To find out more about testing, coronavirus or local restrictions and support, visit coventry.gov.uk/coronavirus.
