Coronavirus - Testing

Where can I get tested?

There are two community testing sites in Preston.

Due to demand we can only provide tests to Preston residents affected by enhanced local restrictions.

You can check whether this affects you by visiting our residencies affected by area of intervention measures.

We are also unable to provide tests to children under the age of 5 at our community testing sites.

Please contact NHS 119 to book a test or visit GOV.UK - coronavirus test

Address and opening hours

Both of Preston's community testing sites are available 5 days a week from Saturday until Wednesday, 10am-3pm.

Please note the Issa Medical Centre site is now closed

• Moor Park Avenue, PR1 1LD (Parking not permitted on Moor Park Avenue)
• Preston Markets, Earl Street, Preston, PR1 2JA.

Important information about our community testing sites

• No appointment is needed for either of Preston's community testing sites
• Please wear a face covering unless exempt. Staff will advise you when to remove this
• Due to demand these tests are only available for Preston residents. Anyone from outside of the greater Preston area must call NHS 119 or visit: GOV.UK - coronavirus test
• Tests cannot be provided for children under the age of 5 as they require a smaller swab. Please call 119 or visit GOV.UK - coronavirus test to book an appointment
• No tests can be carried out after 3pm as completed tests are collected shortly after 3pm. This applies to anyone already queueing so please allow plenty of time to attend a community testing site
• Test results will be sent via text message and should take two to three days. You will be provided with an email address to use if you have any questions about your result
• If you need a negative test in order to travel, please use the NHS 119 service or visit GOV.UK - coronavirus test. Please also check with your travel provider what evidence is required
• To protect the privacy of volunteers and staff as well as members of the public please do not take pictures or videos while at a testing site.

Who needs to get tested?

If you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 or feel unwell please get tested as soon as possible.

Where practical please avoid the use of taxis or public transport to attend a testing site.

But you can get a test regardless of symptoms at Preston's community testing sites.

Why does testing matter?

In order to demonstrate a low percentage of positive tests, we need more people to be tested.

Increased testing helps to identify people who may have the virus, but display no symptoms. This in turn will stop the spread of the virus.

How to book a test

Preston's two community test sites operate a drop in service. Demand is high so please be prepared to queue.

If you are ineligible to be tested at Preston's community testing sites you can find out how to book a test at the nearest regional testing facility here GOV.UK - coronavirus test or by calling the NHS Coronavirus testing contact centre on 119.

A drive-through coronavirus testing site is available by appointment only at Walton-le-Dale Park and Ride.

Testing will be carried out on a section of the Park and Ride site, which is based by the Capitol Centre.

This site is not operated by Preston City Council. Please call NHS 119 to book a test here.