New Covid test site opens

The facility on Constable Lane car park will replace the mobile testing unit which has been operating at the same site.

It will be available for appointments from 8am until 8pm daily and will offer PCR tests for anyone who has coronavirus symptoms and has been in close contact with someone with the virus, as well as follow-up tests to a positive lateral flow test.

Nathan Atkinson, assistant director for strategic commissioning at Rotherham Council, said: “The Covid-19 infection rate across the Rotherham borough remains above the national average, so it’s vital that accessible testing facilities remain available to residents.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to work with the Department for Health and Social Care to secure a permanent facility again.”

Mr Atkinson encouraged anyone with Covid symptoms to self-isolate and book a test via the NHS website or by phone, pointing out that many people did not display symptoms.

He added: “We advise people use lateral flow tests regularly.

“These are available from local libraries, leisure centres and pharmacies.”

Anyone who has requires a PCR test can book online via www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or call 119.

Or you can visit www.rotherham.gov.uk/coronavirus, for further Covid-19 information.