Two key new border operations in Dover - and an inland site in Ashford - are set to inject "tens of millions of pounds" into the local economy and generate "hundreds of jobs", according to the leader of Kent County Council (KCC).

The government has this week committed to establishing the facilities to help strengthen border operations following Brexit.

The first will be a new HM Revenue & Customs site on the White Cliffs Business Park which will oversee border operations.

In addition, there will be an expansion to the Dover Port Health Authority facility to be based in the town - although the location has yet to be confirmed.

The centre will carry out food, plant and animal product import checks to ensure they meet UK safety standards and was originally announced in February.

Dover District Council, which runs the Port Health Authority, has started recruitment for the new service - with 30 new posts already filled and a further 40, ranging from technical officers to operational managers and team leaders, currently being sought.

The two Dover operations are in addition to the Inland Border Facility at Sevington which has similarly created investment, and over 130 jobs, for Ashford.

KCC said the move "is expected to inject tens of millions of pounds into the local economy and generate hundreds of new employment opportunities".

KCC leader Roger Gough said: “This is record investment in both Dover and Ashford, setting the county up for success in jobs and infrastructure through the Channel ports, while also ensuring that there is a strong border network for our county.

“At MP, county council and district council level, we have worked hand in glove to deliver a smart, resilient solution, and millions of pounds of investment in our area.”

Cabinet member for economic development, Derek Murphy, added: “By ensuring border facilities in east Kent are appropriately funded, and located, this double Brexit boost for Dover as we emerge from the uncertainty of the pandemic supports our vital Shorts Straits’ trade, and the county’s and country’s economies.

“I am glad that community views, and ours, continue to be listened to and it is now very important to get work under way and for remaining decisions to be taken as quickly as possible.

“With physical import checks due to come on stream in the new year, time is of the essence. It’s crucial we make the next six months count to make sure that the gateway to Europe, through which millions of trucks carrying billions of pounds-worth of freight pass every year, is ready to help the country keep goods flowing and shelves stocked.”

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