Health board set to to open third COVID-19 testing site in Flintshire

Update: Betsi Cadwaladr health board has said a new testing site will open in Penyffordd on Sunday 23 February.

The walk-in testing centre is located at Penyffordd Youth Club and Community Centre, Hawarden Road, Penyffordd, open 7 days a week from 9.30am until 4:30pm.

The testing facility is open to people who have symptoms of the virus, but will only be open to those with an appointment. An appointment for a test can be made by visiting the Welsh Government website or by phoning 119.

Earlier Report: Plans are  being worked on to open a third COVID-19 testing site in Flintshire.

There is currently a drive-through testing facility located on Deeside Industrial Estate, a walk in centre located at Connah’s Quay Civic Hall also opened just before Christmas.

Residents living in Penyffordd have spotted signs this week stating at ‘Temporary testing centre’ will be situated at the village youth club on Hawarden Road.

Penyffordd Community Council said it has been “advised” the temporary testing site “will start on Sunday 21st February, we have also been advised it is being run by Betsi Cadwaladr.” According to a post on its Facebook page.

Community Councillors appear to have been kept in the dark about the new testing site.

Cllr David Walker posted on the council Facebook page: “Residents like myself could be somewhat surprised to see the signs TEMPORAY (sic) TESTING CENTRE THE YOUTH CLUB.”

“The council were informed Wednesday [at] 2-15 [pm] despite the signs being in place at 8-30 on Wednesday.”

“The council has made immediate enquiries and has been advised that it will start on the 21st February we have also been advised that it is being run by BETSI CADWALDER. (sic)

“The council have asked for the following information.

1.How long will the unit be there
2.Hours of opening
3.Do you need to book this has been answered by a new sign put up this morning stating you must book.”

Betsi Cadwaladr health board has told Deeside.com, “we are working on plans to open a mobile testing unit in Penyffordd, and will provide more information as soon as possible.”

Flintshire now has the highest COVID-19 incidence rate in Wales.

Cases per 100,000 population – based on the key seven day rolling rate metric – stood at 126 on Thursday, the highest in Wales.

Yesterday a further 43 people were reported to have tested positive for COVID-19 in Flintshire, again the highest number in Wales.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Wales local authorities by highest number of COVID-19 positives per 100k population.

7–day rolling rate by specimen date – ending Feb 13. pic.twitter.com/r6J9D1MX0A

— UK COVID-19 (@UKCovid19Stats) February 18, 2021