Covid: how to book a test at mobile unit in Boscombe

The new facility will be located in Hawkwood Road will operate between 10am and 3pm on scheduled days. It will be accessible by both car and on foot.

All tests must be booked in advance via gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test which will be the only way to gain appointments at the unit.

• Two new mobile coronavirus testing units coming to Dorset next week

Until recently, residents were served by the testing centre at Creekmoor, which is only accessible by car, and mobile testing sites at Weymouth, Bridport and Dorchester on a rotating basis.

A mobile testing site in Wallisdown was introduced last month as well as a local testing site at Lansdowne, which is walk-in only.

The latest testing unit in Boscombe will be particularly accessible for residents living in the east of Bournemouth.

• The 10 sites where you can get a coronavirus test in Dorset

Elsewhere in Dorset, another mobile testing will be set up at the Norden park and ride near Corfe Castle.

Cllr Nicola Greene, BCP Council portfolio holder for Covid resilience, said: “I am pleased that in addition to our regional testing centre in Creekmoor, we have additional testing facilities here in the BCP Council area. Having these extra facilities at Boscombe, Lansdowne and Wallisdown offers increased accessibility and reassurance for our residents, particularly those who may not have access to a car.”

Rachel Partridge, assistant director of public health for Dorset and BCP Councils, said: “Identifying and isolating cases quickly is critical to controlling the spread of COVID-19. We have been working with partners to identify the best places for new sites to ensure Dorset residents can access testing when they need it.

“Anyone who develops any symptoms of COVID-19 – a new, continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss or change of taste or smell – should book a test online and self-isolate with everyone in their household or support bubble whilst they wait for the result.”