Northamptonshire truck stops used as Covid test sites in bid to beat jams on the coast

Watford Gap and Rothwell on list of places for hauliers heading to France
Truckers will have two spots to stop in Northamptonshire to get a Covid test. Photo: Getty ImagesTruckers will have two spots to stop in Northamptonshire to get a Covid test. Photo: Getty Images
Truckers will have two spots to stop in Northamptonshire to get a Covid test. Photo: Getty Images

Two sites in Northamptonshire are among 15 new Covid testing stations for long-distance truck and van drivers heading to Europe.

Areas at Watford Gap Services on the M1 and Rothwell truck stop alongside the A14 and will be used to help avoid freight traffic stacking up at ports and in Kent.

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Military personnel will help test hauliers using lateral flow devices — same as those currently being delivered to secondary schools — which give a results within an hour.

The Government included Watford Gap and Rothwell in a list of test sites for tuckersThe Government included Watford Gap and Rothwell in a list of test sites for tuckers
The Government included Watford Gap and Rothwell in a list of test sites for tuckers

France requires drivers to have proof of a negative Covid test within the previous 72 hours before crossing the Channel.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "If we are to keep traffic, it is essential drivers are tested before they travel to the area and these new testing centres will help reduce delays."

Tests will be available at information desks the Government set up originally to provide advice about requirements for travelling to the continent after Brexit.

Van drivers can also use the sites to get a Covid test.

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