Testing centre moves to Holyhead as Covid-19 situation on island remains ‘fragile’

Gareth Williams, local democracy reporter

Anglesey’s Covid-19 testing centre is to move to Holyhead from Thursday amid concerns that transmission on the island remains stubbornly high.

Describing the island’s current situation as “fragile,” the local authority continues to urge residents to listen to public health guidance.

This is after another 14 positive cases were recorded on Wednesday, with a growing number being documented around Holyhead and the wider LL65 postcode area.

The latest figures show Anglesey as having the second highest positivity rate (8.2%) and the third highest rate of Coronavirus cases (71.4 per 100,000 population) of Wales’ 22 local authorities.

According to experts, while the recent increase is linked to the ongoing outbreak at Ysbyty Gwynedd, contact tracers are also continuing to see transmission between households caused by family members and friends visiting each other socially.

Meanwhile, a new walk-in and drive-through testing centre will be be set up in Holyhead from Thursday (March 11) for people in the area to get tested for COVID-19 closer to home.

A spokesman added, “Test, Track, Protect staff are helping prevent the spread.

“Providing them with as much information as you can is vital in preventing further spread. Withholding details could put family and friends at greater risk.

“We need to work together to stop Coronavirus spreading. Our actions and behaviours determine the rate of transmission. Keep our distance. Wash our hands. Wear face masks. Let fresh air in to spread the spread of the virus.

“This is tough, but sticking to the rules we will help keep Anglesey safe.”

The new Holyhead testing centre will be located at Stanley Crescent Car Park, Victoria Road, opening from 9.30am until 4.30pm, seven days a week.

An appointment for a test can be made by visiting the Welsh Government website or phoning 119.