DRIVE-THROUGH Covid-19 testing bays are being set up at Southend Airport, it was revealed today.

Southend Airport is working with Southend Council for the new coronavirus testing facility for symptomatic frontline workers and those over 65.

From tomorrow (Tuesday), the mobile facility will be in place each week from 10am on to 4pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

It is available to key workers suffering symptoms, people required to travel to work who aren’t classified as key workers and those over 65 – plus any symptomatic household members of these groups. 

Drive-through bays for testing will be constructed in the car park to minimise human contact and make sure social distancing guidance is adhered to.

Strict safety protocols will be in place at all times to ensure that the wider community is protected while providing testing facilities for those on the front line of the response to this crisis.

To book, visit: https://www.gov.uk/apply-coronavirus-test

Glyn Jones, chief executivce of Stobart Aviation, “Our priority is the safety of our employees, passengers and the community but during these difficult times we have also been looking at opportunities to make a wider contribution, from our NHS care packages to food donations via Age Concern, so we were very keen to support the Government’s testing programme.

“We would also like to reassure our customers and the community that all precautions are being taken in line with Government guidance.”

Cllr Trevor Harp, cabinet member for health and adult social care, says: “We are pleased to be working with our health colleagues and London Southend Airport to bring this mobile testing facility to Southend.

"This will ensure a range of people will have access to local testing at this time.”

Dates and times are subject to change.