Memorial Hall opens after being converted to Covid-19 testing centre

A new testing facility opened this morning in Wrexham town centre.

The town’s Memorial Hall just off the Waterworld carpark by the old police station (LL12 7AG) opened its doors earlier today and has seen a steady stream of people getting tested.

Walk in tests will be accepted for today and tomorrow only – from Saturday onwards you must book a test.  The Welsh Government website tells you how to apply for a test here. You can also apply for a test using the NHS Covid-19 app on your phone.

The building has work ongoing, with socially distanced queuing taking place at the front and a side door converted to allow a one way system throughout.

While you’re waiting for a test or your results, you are of course asked to follow the self-isolation guidance on the Welsh Government website. If you do test positive, you’ll be given advice by contact tracers at Wrexham Council. They’ll advise you on how long to isolate for and what support you can get to help you through the isolation period.

Wrexham Council say, “As well as making it easier and more convenient for local people to get tested, the move will help health professionals and contact tracers identify cases more quickly helping to stem the spread of the virus in Wrexham.”

Councillor Hugh Jones, Wrexham Council’s Lead Member for Communities, Partnerships, Public Protection and Community Safety, says: “We’re working with our partners to provide easy-access testing in Wrexham, and I would encourage anyone with symptoms to take advantage of the facility at the Memorial Hall.”

The work is being co-ordinated by Public Health Wales, Betsi Cadwaladr NHS Trust, the UK Government Department of Health and Social Care, Wrexham Council and other partners, with support from local voluntary sector organisation AVOW and community groups.

Just like in other parts of the country, the testing station will be managed by the army.

Councillor Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, said: “Public Health Wales, the NHS, DHSC, the council and our partners are here to support you. Let’s help keep Wrexham, our families and communities safe and well.”

“We still have a long way to go in this fight against the virus, but by doing the right thing, you’re making a huge difference. Thank you.”