THE Amex’s drive-through coronavirus test centre has closed as spectators return to the stadium for an Albion friendly tomorrow.
Albion play Chelsea at 3pm tomorrow in front of 2,500 spectators as part of the government’s pilot programme to reopen sports events to the public.
So on Wednesday the Amex’s drive-thorough testing site was closed to prepare for the return of crowds.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman told The Argus it plans to open two more testing sites in Sussex “in the coming weeks”.
And it plans to open three walk-in testing centres in Brighton next month in a bid to boost testing capacity.
“To make sure the regional testing site network remains available for as long as is needed, a small number of sites are being relocated,” the spokesman said.
“We are working to open two additional testing sites in the region in the coming weeks, which will exceed the previous capacity.
“There are also plans to open three walk-through testing sites in the Brighton area next month as part of the government’s UK-wide drive to improve the accessibility of coronavirus testing for communities.”
Brighton and Hove City Council public health director Alistair Hill said there are still plenty of options for residents who need to book a test.
“The best action anyone can take to prevent the spread of Covid-19 is to follow the physical distancing and good hygiene guidelines,” he said.
“If you have symptoms or have been advised to get tested, for example by the NHS or Public Health England, then you can request a test.”
A city council spokesman said: “The nearest regional drive-in centre is based at Gatwick Airport.
“A drive-in temporary mobile testing unit is based at Brighton Race Course until Sunday for pre-booked appointments.
“Plans are under way for more mobile testing units to visit the city in the future.
“Do not use public transport or taxis to get to a test site, only drive.
“If you cannot easily access a test centre, request a home test to be delivered to your home.”
The Amex’s drive-through testing centre opened in April in the run-up to the coronavirus pandemic’s peak in the UK.
Within two weeks more than 5,000 people had been tested at the site according to Albion chief executive Paul Barber.
- The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund
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