The region’s first coronavirus local testing site became operational in Rhymney at the weekend to help combat the spread of the virus within the community.

The facility replaces the existing mobile testing unit (MTU) which has been operating at the former Aldi site on Old Brewery Lane in Rhymney over recent weeks.

The local testing site is a walk-through coronavirus testing facility and forms part of the Government’s UK-wide drive to improve the accessibility of coronavirus testing for communities.

Anyone with coronavirus symptoms, however mild, can get a free swab test that takes less than a minute. Tests should be booked or ordered as soon as symptoms begin at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119 and results are expected within two days.

Testing at the new site will start tomorrow (Saturday 9th January) and the timings over the coming days are anticipated to be as follows:

Saturday 9 Jan – Open to public 14.00 – 17.00
Sunday 10 Jan – Reduced site opening for tests 10.00 – 17.00

Thereafter site will be open to public 08.00 – 20.00, 7 days a week.

Cllr Shayne Cooke, Caerphilly Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Care welcomed the opening, “This new Local Testing Site will play an important role in our ongoing battle against the spread of coronavirus in our community. I would urge residents to make use of the facility and book an appointment if they have any symptoms or concerns.”

“This is another excellent example of effective partnership working between the council and our partners in health to deliver key services into the heart of the community,” he added.

The council and Health Board would like to extend its thanks to Lewis Construction and Welsh Water for their co-operation in sharing the site for this new facility.

For more information or to book a test visit nhs.uk/coronavirus page or call 119.

A useful video is also available which provides more information on visiting a local test site: