A new drive-through coronavirus testing centre has opened today (Wednesday, 8) at Gatwick Airport. Under canvas, four lanes have been constructed in one of the long-stay car-parks. According to airport management, the tests are available by appointment only, and are initially for NHS staff and key workers. Gatwick's chief executive Stewart Wingate said: "We are pleased to support the national effort against the spread of the coronavirus by allowing Gatwick facilities to be used as a vital testing centre for frontline health workers. "We have the space available at Gatwick to be able to host such a large-scale operation. "Alongside keeping the airport open to support repatriation flights, amongst others, we are happy to be able to support the NHS, Government and the country in whatever way we can." [caption id="attachment_13299236" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Gatwick: entrance to testing centre[/caption] Government junior health minister James Bethell added: "This new service will help end the uncertainty of whether NHS and social care staff need to stay at home meaning those who test negative will be able to return to work. "This is a national effort and we are proud to be working with a number of partners to turn this ambition into a reality and roll out additional capacity to where it is needed. "The Government is rapidly scaling up testing capacity for the coronavirus to protect the vulnerable, support our NHS, and ultimately save lives." At opening, the testing lanes were available from 9am to 5pm. More Radio is continuously dedicated to providing a quality news service on-air and online, reporting local stories that matter across Sussex. If you enjoyed reading this story, then check out our home page at moreradio.online where you can find the latest from the county, along with features and competitions from our presenters, as well as listening to the station live. You can also sign up to our news alerts to receive updates on new stories. Simply click on the bell at the bottom right of the home page. This will then allow a pop-up which will ask if you would like to receive alerts. Press ‘allow’ and you’re all signed up! You can also follow us on Facebook and on Twitter.
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