Welsh Government announces site for Holyhead Border Control Post

Because of the end of barrier-free access, and the deal struck by the UK Government, physical checks are required on certain goods entering the UK from the EU.  Further controls on imports are due to be introduced in phases this year by the UK Government.

As a result, Border Control Posts (BCPs), where the required physical inspections will take place, are being established across the UK.

At Holyhead inspections will be required on goods such as animals, plants and products of animal origin entering Wales from the Republic of Ireland.  These checks are the responsibility of the Welsh Government and will be in place in order to ensure goods entering the UK do not pose a risk to public health, or to the spread of animal or plant diseases.

A planning consultation under a Special Development Order will begin shortly.

A similar requirement is needed for ports in South West Wales and work is on-going with the support of the local authority to assess potential sites.

Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths said: “January 1^st saw substantial changes to our relationship with the EU, with the end of the UK’s membership of the Single Market and Customs Union. 

“As a result, substantial new infrastructure is required to deliver checks on goods.  The Welsh Government will be responsible for checks on animals and plants arriving from the Republic of Ireland and we are moving ahead with arrangements for Holyhead while continuing to work at pace to make similar arrangements for the South West. 

“We were clear of the consequences of leaving the Single Market and Customs Union, and we must now ensure that the Welsh ports are prepared for the changes which will be introduced.

“Whilst we welcome the recognition from the UK Government yesterday that the original timescale for introducing border checks was too challenging we remain in discussion with them to ensure that enough time is provided to adapt to the new circumstances in an effective manner, minimising disruption for business

“I would like to thank the Isle of Anglesey Council for their support to date and look forward to working with them as we now move ahead through the planning consultation process.”      

Anglesey Council Leader, Councillor Llinos Medi, said, “We are fully committed to ensuring that the new border arrangements for the Holyhead of Port protect public health and future trade.”

“Whilst recognising there are still uncertainties, locating the new Border Control Post at Parc Cybi will hopefully help to safeguard trade through the Port and create much needed new employment opportunities.”

Cllr Medi added, “The Welsh Government’s continued commitment to the Port and Anglesey is greatly valued.

“Our hope is that this development will now provide a catalyst to attract other associated businesses to Parc Cybi, given its close proximity to the Port, to create a support hub which would be a major boost for the local economy.”