Walk-through Covid test site opened

A new walk-through testing facility has opened at County Hall for those with Covid-19 symptoms.

The new facility is part of the Government’s UK-wide drive to continue to improve the accessibility of coronavirus testing for local communities.

Testing at the new site, located in the front car park at County Hall, started today (Friday 4th December) and will offer pre-bookable appointments seven days a week, from 8am to 8pm.

The new test centre is situated so that local Hertford residents can easily access it without a car or need for public transport. 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.

It is anticipated that there will be an increased foot flow on the public path in front of County Hall during operating hours. Any possible increase in traffic in the county hall area is expected to be offset by Hertfordshire County Council’s ongoing working from home policy that will continue into the new year.

Councillor Ralph Sangster, Executive Member for Resources and Performance, said: "Prompt access to a test is key to controlling the spread of coronavirus, and this new site will make it easier for local residents with symptoms to book a test as quickly and as close to their home as possible. The site at County Hall will reduce the need to travel long distances for many, especially via public transport and is therefore crucial in preventing and reducing the possibility of transmission in the community.

"While we wait for the national vaccination programme to be rolled out, it is imperative that we all continue to follow Government guidance - get a test if you have symptoms and self-isolate as necessary – to prevent the spread of the virus and provide the best opportunity for our county to get back to normal as soon as possible".