New coronavirus testing centre for Crystal Palace

A coronavirus testing centre will be established at Crystal Palace, adding to sites being set up at Norman Park and St Paul’s Cray.

Testing could start as early as next week, according to Bromley council, which secured the site after lodging a bid with the Government.

The testing site in the Crystal Palace car park complements the facility in St Paul’s Cray and the drive-through testing unit which has been operating in Norman Park for some time.

Bromley council earlier this week reminded residents to book tests directly with the NHS after the authority was inundated with phone calls.

Anyone with Coronavirus symptoms and needing to book or order a test are advised they should begin by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.

The new sites at Crystal Palace and St Paul’s Cray come as the Government looks to reduce a testing backlog which has seen some London residents directed to testing sites as far away as Wales and Scotland.

Councillor Diane Smith, executive member for adult care and health, said while coronavirus case numbers remain low in the borough, following guidance to keep them there was crucial.

“Whilst we are doing what we can to support the government’s testing initiative, the council does not operate the site and tests need to be booked via the government portal,” she said.

“The local situation fluctuates and whilst absolute numbers are comparatively low, it is crucial that we all follow the guidance, including social distancing and not meeting in larger groups than six, however tempting this is.”