UK government allocates £200m port infrastructure fund for post-Brexit border facilities

A £200m port infrastructure fund has been launched by the UK government for ports to build new border facilities as the Brexit transition period end draws closer.

The scheme will provide up to £200m funding in one-off grants to ports and is targeted at ports that have the space to build new border infrastructure on their current sites, so that they are ready to handle new customs requirements under the new border operating model.

The funding can be used for a range of vital port infrastructure, from warehouses and control posts to traffic management systems.

Tim Morris, CEO of UK Major Ports Group, said: “There is significant port capacity around the coast of the UK for handling freight flows to and from the EU. Today’s announcement is a welcome step in ensuring that this capacity can be maximised and UK supply chains can be more resilient.

“Time is short and it is vital that UK businesses prepare for new border arrangements. We will work urgently with the Government on the all-important detail and related regulations.”

Richard Ballantyne, chief executive of the British Ports Association (BPA), added: “We welcome this fund and the focus on preparing port infrastructure for what will need accommodate a significant change in our trading relationship with the EU. It’s clear that without support there would not be the capacity to deal the new customs and borders requirements. We therefore welcome this scheme which importantly will be open to all port operators across Great Britain.”

For more information visit www.gov.uk

5th October 2020