COVID testing in Aberystwyth will return to Canolfan Rheidol later this week, health chiefs have confirmed.

From Thursday, 11 March, people in Aberystwyth with symptoms of Covid-19 can access testing (with a booked appointment) via drive-through or walk-in facilities at the town’s Canolfan Rheidol site.

The town’s walk-in facility behind Padarn Surgery on Penglais Hill will be relocated to Canolfan Rheidol.

Drive-through testing was carried out at Canolfan Rheidol last year before the facility was moved to Cardigan following an outbreak of the virus in the south of the county.

Having both walk-in and drive-through facilities at the same site will provide a more sustainable site for the testing facility over the coming months, Hywel Dda Health Board says.

Tests will be carried out in the same way and booking remains through the UK-wide website or by phoning 119.

Alison Shakeshaft, Director of Therapies & Health Science at Hywel Dda University Health Board said: “Our testing capacity remains under constant review by the health board and we are pleased to be able to continue this level of testing provision for the community, ensuring that people can still get a test locally when they need it.

“We are grateful to Aberystwyth University for providing the former testing site off Penglais Road and for its continued support in our wider response to the pandemic.

“We appreciate the efforts people are making to help protect each other during this challenging time.”

Anyone who has symptoms of the virus (a new persistent cough, high temperature or loss/change of taste or smell) or other flu-like symptoms (persistent headache, excessive tiredness, general aches and pains) should self-isolate and book a test as soon as possible through the online UK portal at www.gov.wales/coronavirus.