New UK Government Covid Testing Site Opens in Stirling
The UK Government has today [Saturday 10 October], opened a new walk-through coronavirus testing centre at The Engine Shed in Stirling.
A new covid test centre has opened in Stirling
Located in Stirling town centre, the site is easily accessible for people without a car. The new facility is being provided by the UK Government as part of a UK-wide drive to continue to improve the accessibility of coronavirus testing for local communities. It is operated by Mitie on behalf of the UK Government.
The test centre is part of the largest network of diagnostic testing facilities created in British history. In Scotland, this comprises of six drive-through sites, seven walk-through sites, 21 mobile units, plus the Glasgow Lighthouse Lab, which is working round the clock to process samples.
In Scotland, the UK Government is providing all COVID testing and test processing outside of the NHS. Around two-thirds of all daily tests are provided by the UK Government, in support of Scotland’s health services.
Tests must be booked in advance online at www.nhsinform.scot/test-and-protect, or by calling 0800 028 2816. People should only book a 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).
UK Government Minister for Scotland, Iain Stewart, said:
The UK Government is helping all parts of the UK fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Testing is vital, helping to manage local outbreaks and protecting people’s livelihoods. The UK Government is providing the bulk of Covid testing in Scotland, and this new walk-through centre in Stirling is just the latest in our extensive testing network.
We are pleased to be working with local and commercial partners. These sites are not possible without the hard work of many people. I would like to thank everyone involved for their incredible efforts for the good of the country at this difficult time.