A new walk-through coronavirus testing site in Keynsham for people with coronavirus symptoms, has been welcomed by Bath & North East Somerset Council

The walk-through coronavirus testing facility has opened for those with symptoms to book appointments at the 1st Keynsham Scouts HQ, Ashton Way, as part of the Government's UK-wide drive to continue to improve the accessibility of coronavirus testing for local communities.

Testing is only available for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste. Anyone with one or more of these symptoms should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. The government is committed to continue expanding the capacity of the network of UK test sites and laboratories to make it even easier to get tested and reduce the time it takes to receive test results.

The new site is situated so it is easily accessible without a car. Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout, including while travelling to and from the testing centre.

Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through test site will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, said: "The centre is not a walk-in so please don't just turn up and expect a test, you must have an appointment by booking online or calling 119. The location enables people to walk or cycle to it or drive, however please do not use public transport or taxis if you have Covid symptoms. I am urging residents, if you have symptoms, to get tested now to protect yourself and others, and help to stop the spread of this virus."

1st Keynsham Scouts, chairperson Len Bridges, said: "This is 1st Keynsham's way of giving something back. This approach is a fantastic testament to the role the Scout group plays within our community and is a good use of the building while we continue to meet 'virtually' as an organisation."

The site is part of the largest network of diagnostic testing facilities created in British history which has the capacity to process more than 700,000 tests a day and includes more than 750 sites across the UK, including 82 drive-through sites, 421 walk-through sites, 258 mobile units, home testing and satellite kits and six Lighthouse laboratories.

Anyone testing positive for the virus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them trace their contacts. This will help to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.

Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, asking them to stay at home for 10 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms.