Walk-in test centre open at car park for residents
BRIDGEND residents who are displaying symptoms of Covid-19 are able to get tested for the virus at a mobile testing centre.
A walk-in mobile testing centre has been set up at the Bowls Hall car park of Bridgend Life Centre, following the county borough going into a local lockdown on September 22 due to rising cases of coronavirus.
It is available to anyone with symptoms of a high temperature, new, persistent cough, or a loss or change in their sense of taste or smell.
The facility is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm and will be in place for several weeks.
Bridgend County Borough Council (BCBC) is urging people to only get tested if they are showing symptoms of coronavirus because the testing centre is likely to be very busy.
Staff will be at the centre to make sure people are following social distancing and other health and safety guidelines.
As it is a walk-in centre, residents do not need to book a test. They can just turn up. It is a walkthrough facility only, not a drive-through.
Anyone planning a visit is instructed to wear a mask or appropriate face covering and return home immediately to self-isolate after being tested to avoid spreading Covid-19.
Council leader Huw David said: “The mobile testing centre has been provided to support residents of Bridgend County Borough as part of our efforts to stop the spread of Covid-19.
“We are expecting demand to be very high, so it is really important to only go to the test centre if you are displaying symptoms of coronavirus.
“On arrival, you will be asked to provide your name, date of birth, address and mobile phone number.
“Health professionals will guide you through the process, and most people will receive their results via text message the day after taking the test, although some results may take a little longer.”
When getting tested, visitors will be asked to self-swab. They will be guided through the process by healthcare professionals.
Residents who wish to get tested are encouraged not to use public transport to access the mobile testing centre.
Proof of residency will be required so anyone who goes for a test will need to show an ID or proof of address when attending the centre.
The Life Centre is located on Angel Street, Bridgend, CF31 4AH.
The council has issued further guidance for Bridgend residents on how to use the mobile facility on its website.