Bolton’s remaining LFD COVID test site will close tomorrow (31 March) in line with changes to national legislation.
The government announced in February that free testing for most citizens would end on March 31.
The Victoria Plaza site, next to Specsavers in the town centre, will close its doors tomorrow.
The other remaining site at Bolton Arena closed on March 25.
Bolton Council is paying tribute to the staff who have worked tirelessly at these testing sites over the past year.
More than 20,000 tests have been carried out across six testing sites since they were set up in January 2021 and more than 70,000 home test kits have been collected by residents since last April.
People from a range of backgrounds, most of them with no previous clinical experience, came together to work as a team.
They have embraced new training and kept up to date on the ever changing guidance around testing and self-isolation.
Coral-Rose Clyne, team leader, said:
“I’ve really enjoyed my time working across the testing sites, especially at Victoria Plaza.
“It’s been a really rewarding experience to know you’ve had a role in helping stop the spread of the virus in our borough.
“Meeting so many members of our community and working with such a great team has been the highlight for me.”
Bolton Council’s Director of Public Health Dr Helen Lowey said:
“We would like to thank all the fantastic staff who have been working hard to deliver tests in Bolton.
“Bolton really led the way with preventative testing approach last summer.
“Thanks to the support and cooperation of local people who have taken regular tests, either via one of the sites or at home, we have been able to help protect the most vulnerable residents.
“Despite the removal of legislation, it’s important to remember COVID hasn’t gone away. It’s still important that we protect ourselves, our friends and loved ones by continuing to take precautions to stop the virus spreading.”
Although the supported testing sites will be closed, Bolton residents will be able to continue to access free LFD tests through our community collect points from April 1.
Please ensure you only take the kits you need so there is enough for everyone in the Bolton community.
Free PCR tests won't be available to people with Covid symptoms from April either, except for a small number of at-risk groups, with details to be announced.