Residents across the Falkirk Council area can now take a COVID-19 test even if they are not displaying any symptoms of the virus.

An asymptomatic test centre is opening on Wednesday 3 March operating between 10am and 8pm and will be open between Wednesday through to Sunday each week.

The centre is located at Polmont Sports Centre, Salmon Inn Road, Polmont, FK2 0XF. It is expected to remain open until at least 17 May (closed during the week beginning 3 May due to the venue being used in the Scottish Parliamentary elections).

No appointments are necessary as the centre operates on a ‘drop-in’ basis. The test itself takes around 30 minutes and you will receive your results the same day either by phone or text.

The centre is to be operated by military personnel for the first couple of weeks and thereafter by Falkirk Community Trust who will manage the venue and ensure high levels of safety for any visitors who attend.

You should not attend the new Polmont testing centre if you are displaying any symptoms (even mild) of COVID-19 and instead arrange a test via NHS inform or by calling 0300 303 2713.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said:

“Almost one in three of those who have COVID-19 do not display any of the usual symptoms and asymptomatic testing is a vital tool to help stop the spread of the virus.

Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley’s Director of Public Health, said:

“We are still seeing a high level of coronavirus cases in Forth Valley and we know that many people with Covid-19 don’t experience any of the common symptoms. This new Asymptomatic Testing Site in Polmont will make it easier and quicker for people who live and work in the local area, who don’t have any symptoms of Covid-19, to get tested to ensure they are not able to spread the virus to friends, family or colleagues without realising it.

“Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 or who is living with someone who has symptoms, even very mild ones, should continue to book a test via NHS Inform and should not attend the new Asymptomatic Testing Site in Polmont as this is only for people who do not have symptoms.”

Anyone who receives a positive test result will be asked to self-isolate. Dedicated support is available to anyone who needs to self-isolate, including food packages and financial support.

Photography courtesy of Michael Gillen, Falkirk Herald