News that the Government has recognised the specific challenges Kent could face during the country’s departure from the EU has been welcomed by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP).
Local authorities in Kent will receive £2.6 million in recognition of the county being home to a number of busy ports and infrastructure links to the continent, including the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel.
Kent County Council will receive £1 million, and £1.6 million will be shared between a further 13 local authorities in the county.
Making the announcement, Local Government Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP, said: “From keeping our supply chains running and ensuring goods continue to flow into the country, to putting robust plans in place for every community, local government is playing a vital role in preparing the country to be fully ready to leave the EU on 31 October.
“We have stepped up our preparedness significantly in recent weeks, including asking every council to appoint a Brexit Lead Officer. Now we are releasing an additional £9 million of additional funding today to help local areas get ready for Brexit, whatever the circumstances.”
Christian Brodie, chair of SELEP, said: “This will be reassuring and welcome news for the thousands of businesses that rely every day on the efficient working of these economically vital ports to their success and our national’s trade with mainland Europe.”