SOUTHAMPTON residents could have access to rapid Covid-19 tests as early as this month, it has been revealed.
By the end of February some residents who need to leave home for work might have access to lateral flow tests for free.
The move aims to identify asymptomatic people in the community in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus.
The location of the testing sites and a list of the residents who would be able to access rapid tests are yet to be revealed.
Civic chiefs said they are working on a bid which will have to be considered by government.
It comes as earlier this week it was revealed that up to 11 testing sites could be set up across Hampshire districts as part of a six-week mass testing programme.
Dr Debbie Chase, the director of public health at Southampton City Council, said the authority is working with Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council and the Isle of Wight Council on a joint bid to government for a community Covid-19 testing programme in Southampton.
She said: “The programme will make regular testing freely available for people without symptoms who need to leave home for work but are not covered by an existing workplace scheme. We will make an announcement for how this will roll out in Southampton in the coming weeks. Subject to confirmation, testing could begin by the end of the month.”
MPs in the city have welcomed the news.
Alan Whitehead, MP for Southampton Test, said access to rapid tests will reassure residents.
Royston Smith, MP for Southampton Itchen, added: "It would be excellent news and will help us more quickly return to normal."
Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, said to be pleased.
As previously reported, Hampshire County Council unveiled plans for a mass testing programme last month. The authority said transport and construction workers, those who work in retail as well as childminders and volunteers are among those who could have access to rapid tests.
According to the council the proposed testing sites for Hampshire include some libraries and leisure centres.
