New COVID testing site opens in King's Lynn
A new coronavirus testing centre opened at Lynnsport on Saturday afternoon, providing West Norfolk with easier access to testing for the virus.
The centre opened from 2pm for walk-in tests following pleas from North West Norfolk MP James Wild, highlighted the need for services in the area.
Cllr James Wild, North West Norfolk MP, expressed his delight at the new site on Twitter. He said: “I’m delighted to see the new local testing site getting ready to open.
“This is something I told the health secretary that we needed and I’ve since worked with NHS Test and Trace, Norfolk’s public health director and the borough council to deliver the site so we have better access to tests locally.
“Let’s all continue to play our part to protect West Norfolk.”
The new permanent site at Alive Lynnsport will provide ongoing access to walk-in testing and will mean West Norfolk’s residents don’t have to rely on mobile sites.
Previously a mobile testing unit was visiting Lynn twice per week, now residents will have access to testing daily which will enable faster access to results.
The new testing site has opened just in time for England’s announced move into a three tier system of local restrictions from December 2.
A new testing strategy is set to be introduced from December 15 for passengers arriving in England.
The mandatory 14-day self-isolation period could be reduced by up to two thirds on receipt of a negative COVID test from a private provider after five days of isolation.
This new strategy for testing international arrivals will give passengers the confidence to book international trips knowing they can isolate for a shorter period.
By requiring a negative COVID test from a private provider on the list provided by the government, the NHS Test and Trace testing capacity is protected.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Our new testing strategy will allow us to travel more freely, see loved ones and drive international business.
“By giving people the choice to test on day five, we are also supporting the travel industry as it continues to rebuild out of the pandemic.”
