Reports that the Government may be seeking to sell and repurpose the inland border control post at Sevington raises concerns about its ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the facility while it remains operational. This demonstrates an assumption that an SPS agreement will soon remove the need for inland checks. However, given the uncertainty around the timing of any such agreement, and the significant risks associated with an animal or plant disease outbreak, continued investment in infrastructure and operational efficiency is essential to ensure effective border management in the interim. The announcement of the Common Understanding has also created uncertainty for local authorities who were anticipating recouping the costs of their investment into border facilities through charges for their use. (Conclusion, Paragraph 42)