Wisbech factory closes for 24 hours after staff members test positive for coronavirus

A factory in Wisbech has been closed for 24 hours after staff members tested positive for coronavirus.

The Princes factory, on Lynn Road, has taken the temporary step to allow a deep clean after 14 members of staff were asked to self-isolate.

A Princes spokesperson said: “We can confirm fourteen of our Wisbech-based colleagues have recently tested positive for coronavirus. The total number of colleagues at Wisbech is 407.

“As soon as these colleagues were symptomatic they were asked to self-isolate and contact the health authorities to be tested, and to be logged as part of track and trace efforts.

"A deep clean of the facilities these colleagues used was also conducted, alongside further stringent cleaning across the site.

"As an additional step, we have taken the responsible decision to temporarily close the whole site for 24 hours so a further deep clean can be completed.

"Our first priority is the wellbeing and safety of our colleagues. We have been following government advice since the outbreak of COVID-19 and will continue to do so.

“Throughout the period that COVID-19 has presented a risk, we have implemented social distancing measures and adapted our work environment in line with relevant guidance to minimise the chances of infection within the factory. All colleagues that are able to work from home are doing so and we have taken steps to ensure we have adequate supply of PPE for our colleagues.

“We remain in close contact with Public Health England and Fenland Council so they are fully informed of our approach and developments at the site.”