The Welsh Government has selected Kier to develop a multimillion-pound Border Control Post (BCP) facility at Holyhead in North Wales, UK, a move set to enhance the link between the Republic of Ireland and the UK.
The project aims to support approximately 700 jobs in the Anglesey area and represents an investment in the future operations of Holyhead Port.
Awarded through the North Wales Construction Partnership framework, the new BCP will facilitate the streamlined inspection of EU goods entering Wales.
The 15-acre site, located 1.7 miles from the Port of Holyhead, will include office space and inspection buildings, with dedicated areas for pest and disease checks.
The inspection buildings, designed to accommodate all sizes of heavy goods vehicles, will also feature staff welfare facilities, among other amenities.
In February this year, the government signed a contract with Kier Construction to begin main construction work.
The initial phase of construction has commenced, with groundworks followed by the erection of the steel frame, roofing, cladding, and glazing.
Additional site works will encompass traffic flow management lanes, fencing, staff parking, and eco-friendly features such as rainwater harvesting and sustainable drainage.
Kier Construction North & Scotland regional director Sarah Morton said: “Our design and delivery team has worked closely with the Welsh Government to plan the build of this important new border post and entry point to the UK and we are excited that the project is underway.
“We look forward to using our wealth of construction expertise to create a high-quality building that will bring lasting benefits to Wales.”
A portion of the project's value will be procured through small businesses in North Wales, with the project team committed to providing local supply chain training and upskilling.
Furthermore, Kier plans to collaborate with local educational institutions to create learning opportunities that align with the national curriculum, and more.
This announcement follows Kier's recent selection for the construction of a new special educational needs and disabilities school in the London Borough of Hillingdon, UK.