Council welcomes new walk-through COVID-19 testing site in Bath

A new walk-through COVID-19 testing site in Bath, for people with coronavirus symptoms, has been welcomed by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The local testing site (LTS) in Carpenter House, in Broad Quay will play a role in driving down the spread of coronavirus in Bath and North East Somerset by ensuring that those who have symptoms can get tested in an easily accessible location.

Testing is available only for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste. Anyone with one or more of these symptoms should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.

The city centre location has been chosen so as to be easily accessible without a car. Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout including while travelling to and from the testing centre.

The LTS will have its own entrance and exit to keep people safe. Businesses and residents nearby Carpenter House have been advised in advance about the new Government facility which is being operated by G4S in the University of Bath-owned building.

Professor Ian White, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bath, said: "We have been working closely with Bath & North East Somerset Council and the RUH throughout the pandemic to find ways for University facilities and expertise to help the local community, such as producing PPE and accommodation for health workers. Given the importance of test and trace in tackling Covid-19, we are pleased to be able to provide space on the ground floor of Carpenter House for this facility."

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, said: “The centre is not a walk-in so please don’t just turn up and expect a test, you must have an appointment by booking online or calling 119. The location enables people in the city to walk or cycle to it or drive, however please do not use public transport or taxis if you have Covid symptoms. I am urging residents, if you have symptoms, to get tested now to protect yourself and others, and help to stop the spread of this virus.”

You must self-isolate immediately if:

• you have any symptoms of coronavirus (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)
• you've tested positive for coronavirus – this means you have coronavirus
• you live with someone who has symptoms or tested positive
• someone in your support bubble has symptoms or tested positive
• you're told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace or the NHS COVID-19 app
• you arrive in the UK from a country with a high coronavirus risk – see GOV.UK: how to self-isolate when you travel to the UK