Coronavirus: Response to COVID-19 outbreak at ABP Shrewsbury 

Shropshire Council is working closely with Public Health England and ABP Shrewsbury to manage a COVID-19 outbreak at the site in Battlefield.  

A small number of staff have tested positive for the virus and are now self-isolating as per the Government guidance.  

Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, said:-

“We have been made aware of a number of positive cases of COVID-19 at ABP Shrewsbury and we are working with the business.  

“ABP is carrying out regular Lateral Flow Testing on site and I would urge members of the public to do the same.  

“Shropshire public health is currently dealing with a number of outbreaks in businesses, care homes and schools. Coronavirus is still very much in our communities so please be vigilant.” 

 An ABP spokesman said:-

“As a result of increased numbers in the local community, a small number of colleagues at ABP’s processing site in Shrewsbury have contracted COVID-19. In line with ABP’s protocols all close contacts of those impacted are self-isolating and as a result the company has temporarily suspended operations in the abattoir area of the site.  

“Farmer suppliers have been informed and cattle are being redirected to other ABP facilities. The company is working with the relevant authorities in relation to the matter. 

“Since the advent of COVID-19, staff safety and public health has been the priority for ABP and the company has in place a wide range of protection measures. We continue to be vigilant and support our colleagues through these extremely challenging times.”  

Up to one in three people with COVID-19 do not have symptoms so do not know they have the virus. Everyone over the age of 11 is recommended to take a Lateral Flow Test at home twice a week. These are free for all and are widely available across Shropshire.  

 If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19, no matter how mild, please book a PCR test.  

All details of testing in Shropshire can be found here.