New customs checkpoint proposed for sea terminal

If approved a space with three search bays would be created in the area vehicles board the ferry

Plans have been put forward for a new customs checkpoint at the Sea Terminal in the Isle of Man's capital.

Proposed by the Department of Infrastructure, a tent with three search bays would be created, with waiting two spaces outside and a dedicated entry lane.

A government spokesman said it would enable those arriving from Dublin in a vehicle to make a declaration to the island's customs and immigration service.

It would allow for "increased joint working" with the police and other law enforcement agencies "leading to a more secure island", he said.

People arriving from the UK with a need to make a cash declaration when entering the Isle of Man would also make use of the checkpoint.

The department said the change was part of an ongoing review of port security

Motorists would follow markings on the road, with a 'nothing to declare' lane marked with green paint and a declaration lane in red.

The space would be located next to the area vehicles board the ferry and would join the current entrance and exit to the check in area.

The government spokesman said the addition would allow for the the Isle of Man Constabulary to work more closely with the department to "ensure that potential criminality is detected at the border".

The current planning application was part of an "ongoing review into port security", he added.

The move follows plans to extend and improve the arrivals area inside the sea terminal building in Douglas.