Expansion for Derby firm supplying millions of rapid Covid tests

A firm which is supplying millions of rapid tests in the battle against Covid-19 has expanded its Derby presence.

SureScreen Diagnostics is playing a significant role in the coronavirus crisis, having developed rapid lateral flow antigen tests that display results visually in under 10 minutes, allowing an individual to determine whether they currently have the virus.

These tests have since been contracted to the UK Government in its campaign to roll out rapid testing in hospitals, schools, nursing homes and businesses.

Now, due to the increase in production, SureScreen has expanded its presence at Eagle Park, a business park in Alfreton Road, created by Ivygrove Developments.

Alastair Campbell, from SureScreen Diagnostics, said: “The unit is excellent, and we are putting it to good use with these much-needed diagnostics products.”

Hugo Beresford, from Salloway Property Consultants, who brokered the deal, said: “The work that SureScreen is doing is crucial in our fight against Covid-19 and I’m glad that I could do my part to assist with such an important cause.”

Last month, SureScreen received a visit from Prime Minister Boris Johnson following a contract with the Government to supply 20 million of the rapid Covid-19 testing kits.

Lateral flow antigen tests work by taking a sample from the nose or back of the throat and testing that sample for the presence of antigens, the signature proteins of the virus.

They show results visually, in the same way as many pregnancy tests.

Alastair Campbell said: “Salloway have been very helpful in securing this expansion into Eagle Park with a quick turnaround, meaning that we have been able to increase our operation quickly as demand rapidly increased.”

The deal means that the last remaining units on phase one of Eagle Park have now been let.

Hugo Beresford, who acted on behalf of private investor clients, said: “I’m delighted that we were able to complete these lettings despite the current lockdown.

“Eagle Park has turned out to be one of Derby’s most successful business parks and I have been thrilled to work with both the developers and private investors to secure occupiers through sale and lettings.

“The occupier mix is diverse but the quality is consistent across the board.

“This is a regeneration project in which Derby can take pride.”