Coronavirus testing site 'sits empty' in Aylesbury

There are concerns about testing capacity in Buckinghamshire.

Author: Dan GoodingPublished 16th Sep 2020

It seems like coronavirus testing sites in Buckinghamshire aren't being used - adding to the confusion over where to get a test.

We have seen several reports that people have been told to drive several miles to get a test, but then others have managed to get an appointment nearby.

Richard Lloyd leads Aylesbury Town Council - he says the latest drive-through centre in the town isn't working:

"It became quite apparent soon after it opened yesterday morning (Tues) that actually the test centre was unavailable to be selected online and also, if you turned up without an appointment, then you weren't able to get a test."

Richard says this is concerning when children are being sent home from school if they have potential coronavirus symptoms, but then are unable to get a test to be able to get back to school.

The town's MP Rob Butler says he's raised the issue with ministers.

He tweeted saying:

"I've raised this directly with ministers today, as I'm very concerned spare testing capacity appears available in Aylesbury but local people can't get appointments.

"I'm told the problem is lack of capacity in labs & have called for urgent action."