New Covid test site to open in Ryedale this week

The site is being built today by the Department of Health and Social care and will be followed by pilot testing before the site officially opens on April 2.

It will consist of units to house the testing facilities along with storage and facilities for staff.

The new centre will increase testing capacity for people experiencing symptoms and it will act as a collection point for later flow tests for those who qualify for them.

North Yorkshire’s Director of Public Health, Louise Wallace, said: “We have worked hard throughout the pandemic to increase the level of testing across the county. We are pleased that this new site will increase the capacity and the convenience for residents and will help the county to drive down the infection rate further.”

The site will be open between 8am and 8pm seven days a week. Initially, it will be for symptomatic testing only. Later, it may act as a collection point for lateral flow testing kits for those people eligible for them. In that case, it would operate as a testing site from 8am to 1.30pm and as a collection point from 2.30pm to 8pm.

Stacey Burlet, Chief Executive of Ryedale District Council, said: “Testing is a key part of the strategy to control Covid-19 and help us return to normal life, so we believe this facility is positive news for Ryedale.

"Supporting lives and livelihoods has been our priority throughout this pandemic and having a long-term testing site in Malton is an important thing to do for people in Ryedale. We’re proud to support this key step towards dealing with the pandemic that’s had such an impact across the district.”

The car park entrance and exit next to Princess Road Flats will be closed to allow for safe pedestrian access to the testing site. Access to the car to the rear of Wentworth Mews will be maintained.

Mobile testing units will continue to operate at locations around the county.

Only people experiencing Covid-19 symptoms – a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste – should book a test. Tests must be booked in advance. Visit nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119.