More than £950,000 is to be allocated to Kent councils on the Brexit frontline, the government has announced.

The money will go to authorities where there are ports and the cash will also be shared with those councils covering Eurotunnel and the two international stations at Ashford and Ebbsfleet.

The money is on top of £600,000 that Kent councils have already been allocated to prepare for Brexit and the possibility of a no-deal scenario on March 29.

Communities Secretary James Brokenshire said the money for authorities would help them draw up contingency plans in the event of disruption caused by leaving the EU without a deal.

Dover council and Thanet council will be allocated £136,362 each for the ports of Dover and Ramsgate respectively.

Ashford council will get the same sum for the town’s international station as will Dartford council for Ebbsfleet International.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council will receive the same for Eurotunnel.

The announcement was welcomed by MPs although the councils involved have yet to decide how the money might be spent.

Dover MP Charlie Elphicke said: “I’ve long been fighting for more funding to boost Brexit preparations at the Dover frontline. It’s vital that we are ready on day one to leave the EU and keep trade flowing across the border.”

South Thanet MP Craig Mackinlay echoed:“My understanding is that extra funding is being specifically targeted at areas, like Ramsgate Port, that will potentially have to deal with border management issues.”

“I’ve always considered the likelihood of delay at the Dover-Calais crossing to be remote no matter what the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, but Thanet will do what’s in the national interest to assist with Brexit preparedness and we are proud to do so.”

Mr Brokenshire said: “I am acutely aware a greater burden could be placed on the areas surrounding our ports. I have announced how we are allocating £3.14 million to those areas considered to be under the greatest pressure from Brexit.”

“I will continue to take the situation under review, working closely with local leaders to ensure they are prepared to respond to Brexit.”