Mobile Covid testing unit returns to Banbury area

Anyone who needs a PCR test the mobile testing unit has returned to Bodicote House this week.

Appointments are available seven days a week through gov.uk.

A spokesperson for Cherwell District Council said: "We have worked with the national testing system to put this in place while essential works are carried out at the testing centre on Bridge Street in Banbury, keeping it easy for residents to access a local testing facility when they have Covid-19 symptoms, need to confirm a positive lateral flow test, or have had a contact with a positive case.

"You can book a test or have one delivered to you at home by visiting www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test."

The Covid-19 testing centre which opened last month in the Banbury town centre has temporarily closed.

The Covid-19 testing facility located at the old M&S building in the town centre closed from Monday October 11.

A spokesperson for the UK Health Security Agency said: “The Banbury Local Testing Site (LTS) at 36 Bridge Street has been temporarily closed to allow for some necessary internal health and safety remediation works to be carried out. Work is due to commence on site this week.

"We encourage individuals to continue to book tests online where applicable. Alternatively they can order a home testing kit by visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus."

The town centre testing facility in the old M&S building at the Castle Quay Shopping Centre was part of the government’s drive to continue to improve the accessibility of Covid-19 testing for local communities. There was no access to the testing centre from within the Castle Quay Shopping Mall.