Two walk-in Covid test centres have opened in North Lanarkshire this week.

Those who need to book a PCR test can now attend Wishaw Sports Centre on Alexander Street (ML2 0HQ) and Aquatec in Motherwell, 1 Menteith Road (ML1 1AZ).

Scotland currently operates eight drive through sites, 59 walk-through sites, 42 mobile units, plus the Glasgow Lighthouse Lab which is processing samples.

Jenny Harries, CEO of UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “These new walk-through sites are part of our ongoing work to make it even easier for people who need a PCR test to get one.

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“If you have developed a new continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss or change in sense of smell or taste, or you are asked or advised to get a test, please book one and follow any advice you’re given.

“As we return to a more familiar way of life, testing, and isolating when necessary, remain a vital way of controlling the spread of the virus and protecting one another.”

The UK Government is providing all Covid testing and processing outside of the NHS and has opened the two centres.

UK Government Minister for Scotland, Iain Stewart added: “The UK Government continues to provide the bulk of testing in Scotland, a programme which is vital to our recovery from this pandemic.

"Alongside the roll-out of UK Government-funded vaccines, testing is helping us to manage the virus, slow down the rate of transmission and protect communities.

“These new walk-through facilities in Wishaw and Motherwell are the latest in our extensive network of testing centres supporting people in all parts of the UK.” 

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Simon Venn, Mitie Chief Government & Strategy Officer, said: “Our priority during the pandemic is to support the nation’s efforts to fight COVID-19 and help keep the country running.

"Testing is a critical part of the UK’s strategy to combat coronavirus and we’re proud to support the UK Government with this vital task.

"A big thank you to all the NHS staff, Mitie employees and other frontline heroes in Wishaw who are working tirelessly to keep us all safe.” 

PCR tests must be booked in advance HERE or by calling 119. It is advised that people only book one if they have a high temperature, a new and continuous cough, or a loss or change to their sense of smell or taste.

They should also book a test if they have been instructed to do so by a clinician or NHS contact tracer.

Lateral flow test kits are also now available for pick up without an appointment at local walk-in or drive-through test sites from 8am to 8pm each day. They can also be ordered online HERE or by phone by calling 119.