The new site is one of 26 walk-in testing centres in Scotland.
The UK government has today (January 19) opened a new walk-through coronavirus testing centre at Bridge Street Car Park in the town centre of Paisley, around 10 miles from Glasgow. The test centre in the Renfrewshire town is one of 26 walk-in testing sites in Scotland, plus there are also six drive-through sites, 21 mobile units and the Glasgow Lighthouse Lab to process samples as part of the government’s testing network.
Local walk-through testing centres are being set up in urban areas and are designed to be easy to reach for people who can’t get to the main drive-through sites via car. Anybody can enter these walk-in testing centres and you don’t have to live in the town of Paisley to be tested here.
The new testing centre is part of the NHS/Government national testing programme and is in addition to the main testing sites, such as the drive-through one at Glasgow Airport. Around two thirds of all daily tests are provided by the UK Government, in support of Scotland’s health services.
UK Government Minister for Scotland, Iain Stewart said: “Testing continues to play an important role how we manage the virus alongside the roll out of vaccines, helping to identify local outbreaks, slow down the rate of transmission and protect communities. I would like to thank the public for continuing to do the right thing and come forward to be tested when they display symptoms.”
Tests must be booked in advance at NHS Inform or by calling 0800 028 2816. People are advised to only book at test if they have coronavirus symptoms (a high temperature, a new and continuous cough, or a loss or change to their sense of smell or taste).
Dr Linda De Caestecker, Director for Public Health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “We welcome the additional testing facility in Paisley which will make it easier for more people to access testing during this crucial period. Testing and working alongside other control measures will be key to helping control and minimise the spread of the virus in our communities.”
You can find more information about the testing process and site here.
Bridge Street Car Park, Paisley, PA1 1XN