BRITAIN’S first post-Brexit border control post in Poole will no longer charge importers, hauliers or carriers for using the facilities. 

The Port of Poole has made the decision to introduce the changes to import controls for certain animal products, plant and plant products that require sanitary and phytosanitary inspections. 

These changes will be introduced from April 30. 

Captain Brian Murphy, chief executive of Poole Harbour Commissioners, said: “Port of Poole is also entitled to levy its own additional charges.  

“However, the Port of Poole has taken the decision not to charge importers, hauliers, or carriers for using its brand new, state-of-the-art BCP facility. 

“The Port of Poole’s decision not to charge for use of its border control post will be reviewed each year with any future change only applying from April 1, 2025.” 

Inspections on the goods are carried out by the Port Health Authority and the Animal and Plant Health Agency, which will both be applying their own charges. 

The border control post was officially opened in November last year and cost £2.2m. Poole Harbour Commissioners said not only does it mean faster processing for produce coming into the port, but it also means goods could be coming from across the globe. 

The facility has two large inspection rooms and loading bays where international lorries will present their cargo for inspection.