New drive-in Covid-19 test and trace site set up in Tangmere
It will officially be open from Friday
Work is due to begin in the coming days on a new drive-in coronavirus test and trace facility at Tangmere airfield.
The site is expected to open on Friday as part of the Government's UK-wide drive to increase accessibility to Covid-19 testing as part of the NHS Test and Trace scheme.
Until now, those in need of a test have either had to go outside of Sussex, or use sites at Gatwick Airport, in Eastbourne and at Brighton's Amex Stadium - the last of which has now closed as preparations begin for a new Premier League football season.
West Sussex County Council owns the land where the testing centre will be located and has worked closely with the Department of Health and Social Care in making the site available.
Testing will also continue to be conducted at the Gatwick regional testing centre, as well as at mobile testing units and through home delivery kits.
A West Sussex County Council spokesperson said:
"Residents in the Tangmere area may notice an increase in vehicle movements around the airfield site as work begins on building the temporary facility.
"Discussions are ongoing to ensure the local impact of traffic to and from the site is kept to a minimum."
West Sussex residents with symptoms of COVID-19 should continue to request a free test for the virus at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.
People should also continue to regularly wash their hands, maintain social distance and wear a face covering when advised to help limit the spread of COVID-19.