Two Workers Test Positive For Coronavirus At RAF Lossiemouth

Two workers helping with a multi-million-pound redevelopment at RAF Lossiemouth have tested positive for coronavirus. 

Despite neither person displaying any symptoms, routine testing showed both had been infected and were put into isolation.

The pair, who work for contractor VolkerFitzpatrick, have since undergone further testing with one individual returning a negative result.

The company said: "We arranged for antigen testing to take place at the NHS facility in Inverness.

"We are pleased to report that one of the tests has returned a negative result, and we are awaiting confirmation of the results of a retest on the second individual."

Base commander, Group Captain Chris Layden, said: “RAF Lossiemouth is continuing to deliver its vital work in the interests of national security, but we are stringently observing the necessary protocols to protect both the military community and our wider Moray family."

RAF Lossiemouth is one of the UK's Quick Reaction Alert bases.

It is currently undergoing a substantial upgrade to its airfield ahead of the arrival of the P-8 Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft fleet.

As well as resurfaced runways, the base will also see new accommodation for personnel, a new air traffic control tower, upgrades to drainage and electrical supplies, and upgraded facilities for IX (Bomber) Squadron which moved to the Moray base last year.

The work is expected to be finished by spring 2021.

Cover image: Construction work at RAF Lossiemouth.