Harris open for rapid Covid-19 testing

Rapid coronavirus testing is now available to businesses and their employees at The Harris in Preston city centre.

Smaller businesses can now book an appointment for their employees to be tested. Eligible businesses will be contacted by Preston City Council or can enquire directly.

Larger businesses with the capacity to do so are being offered training and support to administer lateral flow tests, which can give results in 30 minutes, in their workplace.

Councillor Matthew Brown, leader of Preston City Council, said: "We’re proud to offer the Harris to support such an important part of the fight against coronavirus and we’re grateful for the support of the armed forces who have helped to set up this site.

"It is important staff members working in businesses that have remained open have access to rapid coronavirus testing to ensure their place of work remains safe."

“Not only will this protect workers, it will also give members of the public confidence that places of business are safe if they need to visit them. It is vital businesses take up this opportunity and help stop the spread of the virus to bring down infection rates and keep us safe.”

Mark Whittle, Preston City Centre BID manager, added: "We’re very happy with be working with local government, Public Health England and the Ministry of Defence to encourage essential workers in the city centre to get tested regularly either by establishing a testing regime in your place of work or by using the site at the Harris.

"We would urge local employers to support their colleagues to take a free, painless, and quick test, to ensure they are not inadvertently transmitting the virus."

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