Council bosses get extra cash to deal with Brexit

Ministers announced this week they had set aside a £56.6m fund to help local authorities across the country plan for the impact of the UK leaving the EU, with or without a deal.

And there is also the possibility of more money being handed out to deal with anything that comes up after the official leaving date of March 29.

Jeff Garfoot, head of corporate finance and commercial services at Durham County Council, said: “We are aware of the announcement by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government and are awaiting official confirmation of the council’s allocation and if there are any restrictions on what this can be invested in.

“Once confirmation is received, the council will consider how best to spend the funding for the benefit of those who live and work in County Durham.”

Unitary authorities, like the county council, are expected to get about £210,000, spread over two payments, from a fund worth about £40m.

A further £1.5m has been set aside to help councils facing disruption at ports, while £10m is being held back until after Brexit and £5m will be kept for the Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government to carry out its own preparations.

James Brokenshire MP, the Communities Secretary, said: “Local authorities have a critical role to play in making a success of Brexit in their areas.

“I’m determined to ensure councils have the resources they need, which is why I’m releasing £56.5 million of extra finance to help them to deliver essential services and keep residents well-informed.

“I will continue to work closely with local leaders to ensure they are prepared to respond to any Brexit scenario.”

James Harrison , Local Democracy Reporting Service