Bristol Airport has expanded its immigration hall and it has now been officially opened.

Weston Mercury: Immigration at Bristol Airport. Picture: Bristol AirportImmigration at Bristol Airport. Picture: Bristol Airport (Image: Bristol Airport)

The hall features 10 of the latest ePassport gates, which provide a fast route through border control.

Immigration Minister Brandon Lewis visited the airport to open the hall, which has not only been expanded but also re-designed to give Border Force officers a clearer view of passengers.

The number of interview rooms at the airport has also gone from two to four, and a new drug-testing lab has been set up.

Mr Lewis said: “This refurbishment is an excellent example of how effectively Border Force works with airport operators to provide an efficient and secure service for tourists, business visitors and Britons returning home.”

Weston Mercury: Bristol Airport.Bristol Airport. (Image: Bristol Airport)

The airport’s chief executive Robert Sinclair said he was ‘delighted’ to welcome Mr Lewis to the airport.

He added: “This new facility will help Border Force carry out this vital work in a modern, professional environment with support from the latest available technology.”