Mitie, the facilities management contactor, reports it’s taking on operation of 19 Mobile Testing Units (MTU) across England and Wales. The MTUs are run from nine of the 12 Regional Testing Centres Mitie already operates in Ashford, Bournemouth, Deeside, Ebbw Vale, Gloucester, Llandudno, Newbury, Salisbury and Penrith.
Mitie will manage a range of services at the MTUs, such as driving the Units to the testing location and back to the Regional Testing Centre at the end of the day, installing the equipment – gazebos, safety signs and traffic management tools – at the testing location and providing cleaning and security services, including traffic management and lane support for people arriving at the MTU, by car and on foot.
The contractor will have around 400 people working across the 19 MTUs. The FM firm reports that it now has over 1,400 employees working across the 12 Regional Testing Centres and 19 MTUs. Mitie will take over the Mobile Testing Units at the end of July, after a one-month handover with the British Army. Armed forces personnel will then be redeployed.
Simon Venn, Chief Government & Strategy Officer, Mitie, pictured, said: “We remain committed to supporting the UK in the fight against COVID-19. In taking on the management of these Mobile Testing Units, in addition to our existing Testing Centre Sites, we’re proud to be helping local communities identify and respond to potential Coronavirus outbreaks to prevent further spread. These initiatives are testament to the amazing achievements that are possible thanks to effective public and private sector collaboration.”
Background
Anyone with symptoms can book or order a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus. Essential workers and members of their households can access priority testing at GOV.UK. Those without access to the internet can call 119 in England and Wales or 0300 303 2713 in Scotland and Northern Ireland to book a test.
