Shepway District Council Leader David Monk was said to be pleased with the announcement that, £250 million pounds has been set aside to help implement a long term solution for Operation Stack. Councillor Monk, Leader of Shepway District Council, said: “I am extremely happy with the fantastic announcement just made by the Chancellor about £250 million funding for a long term solution to Operation Stack in the Autumn
Statement. The Chancellor’s announcement will help bring an end to the misery caused to local residents and businesses by Operation Stack and the increasing problems caused by lorries backing-up on the A20 as they head in to Dover. I look forward to seeing the detail of the proposals but pledge to continue to work with the Department for Transport and Highways England to make sure that any solution minimises the impact on local people and businesses. In particular, I would like to thank Damian Collins our MP for his persistent and effective efforts to highlight the devastating impact that Operation Stack had on the people of Shepway and in particular for leading a deputation of 11 Kent MPs to see the Chancellor in the run-up to the Autumn Statement.”
Some local Business owners have however commented, local businesses are the ones that suffer and that a sliding Tax Break, would be much more appropriate, to help offset the loss of business through no fault of their own.