Three rapid testing sites, operating for those without Covid symptoms, are set to be closed on Sunday due to the amber snow weather warning.

The small number of people who had appointments booked on Sunday (February 7) for the three Southend sites - at University Square, St Aidan’s Church and Shoebury youth centre - are being offered appointments tomorrow instead or from Tuesday February 9.

It is hoped that some of the sites will be able re-open on Monday, however the situation is being kept under review.

This decision does not apply to the nationally booked sites that offer PCR tests at Elm Road in Leigh, Short Street in central Southend, Southend Airport and Hamlet Court Road in Westcliff.

However, these sites could be affected by the bad weather and Southend Council are in contact with the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) who run them.

The team say they will update on any changes or closures, as and when they have that information.

Read more:

BEWARE: Essex braced for 'severe cold weather' as snow warning upgraded to amber

Snow warning: Quad bike to grit areas by hospital, Covid testing sites and vaccine centres

Trevor Harp, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “With the amber warning for snow, we have taken the proactive decision to move the small number of Sunday appointments at our rapid testing sites – which are for people without symptoms - forward to Saturday or Tuesday onwards, to avoid having to cancel people’s appointments at short notice on Sunday, and avoid people potentially making wasted and unnecessary journeys in the bad weather which is forecast.

“We remain in contact with the DHSC who operate the local PCR testing sites at Elm Road, Short Street, Southend Airport and Hamlet Court Road and will update as and when we have any information on those sites.”