Local councillor calls for testing centre in Saddleworth

Saddleworth South councillor Graham Sheldon

A councillor has written to Oldham’s chief executive asking that Saddleworth has its own coronavirus testing center.

Cllr Graham Sheldon’s plea comes on the wake of the councils announcement over tough new measures to combat the virus.

His note says:“I do believe we should have local testing facilities. Travelling to Oldham for a test is not only exhausting for some, but carries the added potential risk of spreading the virus around.

“The testing units are mobile I believe and have suggested possibly the civic hall Uppermill or museum car park as a venue.

“People are also angry that most are doing their best and others seem not to bother.

“They are also calling for local measures/lockdowns, and I understand where they are coming from as the borough is quite diverse, and spread over a large area. As you know it can be raining in Shaw but quite sunny in Saddleworth. Just a few thoughts...”

A spokesman for Oldham council said:” We are currently assessing a range of venues across Oldham for suitability for mobile testing.A priority will be given to areas where there are currently higher levels of positive test results.”

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