A TRADE deal between the UK and the European Union has been hailed as a 'relief' for Northwich and Winsford businesses.

MPs are being recalled to the House of Commons today, December 30, to vote on the post-Brexit deal agreed on Christmas Eve.

It is expected to be approved in Parliament, with most Labour MPs expected to vote with the Government, as well as Eurosceptic backbench Conservatives.

Cllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, has welcomed the breakthrough – but says businesses in the borough still need to be prepared for any changes from January 1.

She said: "While details of the deal are still emerging, the fact we are now in the position that [there is] a trade deal with the EU is a relief, following a very long period of negotiations, political debate and uncertainty for residents and businesses.

"The consequences of ending the transition period without a deal in place could have had major consequences both for us as a borough and nationally.

"The new deal is still subject to parliamentary approval and there is a lot of detail to be digested over the coming days. Businesses who trade with the EU or have suppliers in the EU will still need to adapt, even with this deal in place.

"To prepare for this, we are working closely with the chamber of commerce and our local enterprise partnership to ensure businesses have access to information. This support will increase in the coming days and weeks."

The council has been preparing for the UK’s exit from the EU since 2018, when a cross-party group of councillors directed officers to explore the opportunities and challenges that Brexit presents.

Cheshire West is home to several major businesses in the car-making, chemical industry and farming sectors, as well as smaller firms that rely on trade with the EU.

While the proposed deal should lessen some of the challenges to these businesses, there are still preparations to be made for many firms.

CWAC has teamed up with West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce to provide a package of support and advice for businesses over the festive period and into the new year.

Information can be found on the chamber’s website and businesses do not need to be members to access it.

Debbie Bryce, the chamber's chief executive, said: “With the end of the Brexit transition period fast approaching, even with a new deal, it is more important than ever that businesses in Cheshire West are preparing for the changes that are coming in the new year.

"There are significant changes that firms need to be planning for ahead of January 1, 2021."

For more information email internationaltrade@wcnwchamber.org.uk or visit wcnwchamber.org.uk/post-brexit-support