CHAMBER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

NAME	Post
David Wallace	Former Chamber President & Executive Chairman
Jon Harrap	President of the Hotel & Restaurants Association
Terry Gilbert
David Mainhood
Vickie Wheeler		Past President
Pete Dutton
Val Poole
Christopher Batt
Chris Knight	Chamber President & Executive Chairman
Leon Wilce
Adrian Charlish
Murray Ambler-Shattock	Chamber Webmaster & Web/IT Management
Rose Cunningham
John Coombe		Chamber Treasurer
Helen Whiston	Chamber Secretary

       

WESTON SUPER MARE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF TRADE AND COMMERCE

MINUTES OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING ON TUESDAY 14^TH APRIL

AND GENERAL MEETING ON WEDNESDAY 15^th APRIL 2009

 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

This was held at the Royal Hotel.

PRESENT

Chris Knight (President), John Coombe, David Wallace, Val Poole, Vickie Wheeler, David Mainhood, Helen Whiston (secretary).

APOLOGIES

Received from Christopher Batt, Adrian Charlish, Leon Wilce, Murray Ambler-Shattock, Terry Gilbert.

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

These were signed as a true record of events.

MATTERS ARISING

a)      We had approached Kallkwik about production of the Chamber logo but they do not produce anything on vinyl. However, we had been contacted by one of our members who would be able to create suitable badges for us and we are currently in negotiation with them about this. There was a lot of discussion about these, whose cost decreases according to the number purchased. The feeling was that they should be given to members as part of the membership subscription and whether at the current membership fee or with a small increase to cover costs was yet to be decided. We are also looking into a lapel badge with the Chamber logo but it was felt that this should be offered to members as an extra to the subscription.

b)      No member had yet volunteered to be on a fund-raising subcommittee. Chris is entering a sponsored event to raise money for Children's Hospices and would welcome any sponsorship or anyone who is able to join him. If anybody would like to do this, please contact him on 08707 460830/07793156200.

c)       The Secretary had written to Phil Judd to congratulate him on Chamber's behalf on becoming Deputy Mayor this year and Mayor next year.

There is due to be an economic forum at the Winter Gardens on 12^th May, which Chris is intending to attend. David Wallace said he would try to be there as well.

A Chamber business breakfast has been arranged at the Alasia Restaurant in West Street, on Wednesday 13^th May at 7.30 a.m. for 8 a.m. This is to be sponsored by Buildbase who are a national supplies building firm and Chawner Grey, a local solicitors, and there will be a number of speakers at the event. Numbers are limited, so if any member would like to attend, please contact Chris Knight on 08707 460830.

Cllr Mike Bell, the local liberal candidate, had expressed an interest in addressing one of our meetings, so we were trying to contact other parties so that we had a balanced view of how small businesses are to be treated in the future.

After much discussion, it was decided that we should have a normal meeting in May but a larger event at our AGM in June, when former Presidents would be invited.

CORRESPONDENCE

There had been very little, but we had received a renewal request from GWE Business West of £80.50 for our annual membership. It was agreed that we should pay this and the invoice was given to the Treasurer.

 

TREASURER'S REPORT

We have £173.01 in our current account and £805.49 in our savings account.

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY

Leon was unable to attend the meeting, but we were told that he is preparing a database based on our current membership list so that he can contact current members and prospective members more easily. 

Since our last meeting, we have two new members: Paul Dickinson of Dickinson Business Finance, a commercial finance broker; Diane Knowles of Rose & Amber, a ladies' fashion retailer. 

LOCAL MATTERS

      Due to building work along their normal route the Carnival Committee have had to change the route of this year's carnival. It is hoped that it will return to its normal route in future.

      The observation wheel is doing very well and has just been opened, with the official opening being Thursday 16^th April, which Chris was to attend on our behalf.

      The old tip by Macdonalds in Winterstoke Road is now named Avoncrest and earmarked for development.

      There was soon to be a meeting to discuss the development of Victoria Square, the area between the Sovereign Centre and the sea front.

Car-parking for those attending meetings at the Royal Hotel has not yet been agreed but Chris would discuss this matter with the management.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

a)      David Wallace offered to speak about Steepholme at a future meeting .

b)      He suggested that we ought to have a fun skittles evening and that the Lamb in Worle would be a good place to hold this event.

c)       He would organise a raffle at the AGM - if anybody has any prizes to be included in this, please contact him on 01934 823312.

d)      The Secretary would produce a list of former speakers and of numbers attending our meetings.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 8.30 p.m.

 

GENERAL MEETING

This was held at Howards Honda.

PRESENT

Chris Knight (President), Jenny Trapnell, Terry Gilbert, Gail Parsons, Irene Jones, Justin Newland, David Wallace, Val and Norman Poole, Karl Embrey, John Coombe, Jon Harrap, Diane Knowles and partner, Helen Whiston (secretary).

APOLOGIES

Received from John Scott and Murray Ambler-Shattock and Kym Leedham.

The President welcomed all those attending and gave a summary of what had happened at the executive committee meeting. It was agreed that we should arrange more social events and visits to Thatchers Cider and Butcombe Brewery were suggested as excellent venues.

 

Business Link has an excellent website in the current economic climate: www.businesslink.gov.uk.

We were told that the number of failures of new businesses is slowing down and Terry Gilbert confirmed that that rate in North Somerset is lower than the national average. Because people are trying not to buy new things, there was a growing demand for repair businesses and an increase in second-hand car sales.

Leon Wilce was thanked for holding the meeting at Howards and asked to speak. He has become membership secretary and confirmed that we are seeing a growth in membership but that he was going to find out why former members have moved away from us. He is involved with the Taunton Chamber of Commerce and will be able to apply some of their ideas to us and vice versa. We should work on the importance of the brand-name Chamber of Commerce and the kudos attached to it.

It was confirmed again that we would like volunteers to help with a fund-raising committee.

He explained to us that there had been a vast investment at Honda's Swindon base, which would make a lot of improvements both there and for their local suppliers. Honda had just produced a hybrid car, the Insight. This is a traditional family hatchback, with a fuel economy of 50 -65 mpg, with an annual tax of £15 per year. If any member would like to see this and have a demonstration, please contact Leon on 01934 410999.

He confirmed that Howards were doing very well with second-hand car sales and had had record months so far this year.

A number of people were asked to introduce themselves to the meeting: Justin Newland of Business Bookkeeping Services is a prospective new member. New members present were Diane Knowles of Rose & Amber, a ladies fashion retailer in Meadow Street ,and she generously offered 10% discount to any Chamber member; Karl Embrey, who runs an HGV driver training company.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.30 p.m.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The Executive Committee meeting will be at the Royal Hotel at 7.00 p.m. on Tuesday 19^th May and the General Meeting for all members will be on Wednesday 20^th May, at 7.00 p.m. at the Royal Hotel. (Please check the venue with the receptionist).

 

IMPORTANT NEWS SINCE OUR MEETINGS - THERE IS TO BE A FREE EVENT AT CADBURY HOUSE HOTEL ON 28TH APRIL, 0830 TO 1400, WHICH WILL BE A BUSINESS ADVICE ROAD-SHOW, ORGANISED BY BUSINESS LINK AND THE SOUTH-WEST RDA. IT WILL OFFER BUSINESSES AN OPPORTUNITY TO ATTEND A FREE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT DAY, TO MEET WITH LIKE-MINDED BUSINESS-OWNERS OVER AN INFORMAL FREE WORKING LUNCH AND MEET WITH THE SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS WHERE AVAILABLE AFTER EACH SEMINAR. TO BOOK A PLACE PLEASE RING 0845 0707 747.

 

CORRESPONDENCE

Received by Chamber until 15^th April 2009

Press release from Brightr

 

WESTON SUPER MARE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE

MINUTES OF MEETING, WEDNESDAY 18^TH FEBRUARY 2009

PRESENT

Chris Knight (President), David Wallace, Adrian Charlish, Jenny Clark, Val Poole, Vickie Wheeler, Terry Gilbert, Leon Wilce, Christopher Batt, Murray Ambler-Shattock, Philippa McQueen, Helen Whiston.

APOLOGIES

Received from John Coombe, David Mainhood, Lord and Lady Gibson.

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

These were signed as a true record. Our December meeting was held at Howards and Leon Wilce was thanked for this. The January meeting at Weston College was excellent and thanks were expressed to Christopher Batt for his efforts in organising the event. 

MATTERS ARISING

Val Poole had attended the December meeting - her name would be added to the list of those present.

FEEDBACK FROM JANUARY MEETING

Several people had returned forms which asked for comments. There had been a suggestion that the executive committee meeting ought to be at the end of the evening but it was felt that it should remain at the beginning, so that the President could report facts at the open meeting later. It was suggested that the executive committee meet on a different day, as used to happen; this matter should be discussed further at our next meeting.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Our current balances are: current account - £165.51 and savings account - £805.29. (These were given by the Treasurer to the Secretary at our last meeting and the only way they could have changed is to increase with new members joining since then)

The President reported that we had had some problems with Cadbury House about the bill for our meeting there. These had now been resolved but he would speak to them and thereby hopefully ensure that none of our members incur such difficulties.

CORRESPONDENCE

North Somerset Council had sent out a business survey to all local businesses, asking what they would like to see in the future for businesses.

Job Centre Plus will be holding a jobs fair at the Winter Gardens on 20^th March, 10 - 2, where employers will be able to show the benefits of working for their companies and what vacancies they have available. For further details of this event, please contact Kym Leedham on 01934 433895 or kym.leedham@jobcentreplus.gsi.gov.uk.

There is to be a Business Rates re-evaluation forum on Taunton on 3^rd March.

LOCAL MATTERS

It was hoped that there would soon be a new place where start-up businesses can be housed initially. More about this would be reported shortly.

The Council were considering increasing car-parking charges within North Somerset. The President had objected to this, particularly as there is currently very little enforcement of parking restrictions.

On 17 March in Yate and on 18 March at Oldmixon there would be a Signpost Forward meeting. For further details of this, please contact Terry Gilbert on 01934 418118.

On 15 March at 7.30 p.m. there is to be a Weston super Show at £10 a head. For further details, please ring 01934 645544.

The President has tried to contact Henry Boot re the Tropicana but been unable to do so yet. As we have not heard to the contrary, it is believed the building work there is on schedule. 

Nothing had been heard from Urban Splash re Birnbeck Pier and he would continue trying to contact them.

We had received copy planning applications re the Grand Pier and there was to be a meeting in March to discuss this.

The Town Centre Management has put a list of things which are happening within Weston in their latest newsletter, which can be viewed at www.wsmtcp.co.uk.

It was reported that High Street trading was 6% down, whereas the national figure was 9% down.

A feasibility study re BID (Business Improvement District) was currently taking place

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

It was felt that the executive meeting should remain at the beginning of the evening. Perhaps a reminder of times ought to be included in the next Newsletter.

If any member has problems re employment, please contact Christopher Batt at Weston College on 01934 411594.

The next Burroughs Day business breakfast will be at Rookery Manor on 27 March, when The Hon John Penrose MP will be speaking.

The business part of the evening ended and we welcomed members Nigel Ford and Roy Scarborough, who gave us a very interesting talk on PAT testing and its necessity. If anybody would like to contact them, please contact the secretary on helenwhiston@hotmail.com, who will pass on their contact details.

We were then spoken to by John Holland and Eric Tones from the Weston Lions Club, who spoke about their forthcoming Real Ale and Cider Festival. This will take place on the Beach Lawns from Thursday 23^rd July to Sunday 26^th July. For more details about this event, please contact John Holland on 01934 623313 or johnfieldholland575@googlemail.com or Eric Tones on 01934 813339 or eric.tones@btinternet.com.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

Wednesday 18^th March a t The Royal Hotel - 7.00 p.m. for the executive committee and 8.00 for the open meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE

Received by Chamber until 18^th February 2009

Gwebusinesswest Update

Newsletters from Woodspring Management Club

Planning application from North Somerset Council re the observation wheel

Notification of Bath half-marathon

Newsletter from Brace

Letter re business rates revaluation seminar

Feedback from January meeting attendees

Revised planning application from North Somerset Council re the observation wheel

WESTON SUPER MARE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE

MINUTES OF MEETING, WEDNESDAY 14^th January 2009

This meeting was held at Weston College and was entitled "Commerce in the Credit Crunch". The evening was attended by fifty people, of whom several were members, some guests and others prospective members.

The evening was opened by the President who introduced the event, hoping that we could all learn some lessons which would help us through the current recession.

There followed some excellent and thought-provoking speeches by:

Debbie Urch of Kings Ranson, 01275 857399 - "Keeping your cash flowing";

Jenny Trapnell, Barclays Bank - "Get the most from your bank";

Dawn Appleford from HR Department, 07847436792 - "Is redundancy the only option?";

Christopher Batt, of Weston College, 01934 411594 - "Can training by taken for granted?".

The evening was officially closed by the President, who thanked all our speakers and emphasised that if any of our members have a problem which they need help in resolving, they should please get in touch with any of the speakers or with himself on 08707 460830 and we would endeavour to resolve the difficulty.

 Many thanks must also be given to Christopher Batt and Weston College, who organised such an excellent event, providing some very interesting speakers and a lovely buffet supper.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

Wednesday 18^th February at the Royal Hotel, Weston super Mare, at 7.00 p.m. for the Executive Committee and 8.00 p.m. for a more open meeting, where we would have two of our new members explaining the necessity of PAT testing and members of the Lions Club to talk about the town's forthcoming beer festival.

Weston Chamber of Trade and Commerce - Minutes December meeting.

Attendance:

Chris Knight, Lisa Knight, John Coomb, Leon Wilce, Chris Batt, Vicki Wheeler, John Harrap, David Wallace, Martin Slade, Nigel Ford, Karl Embery, John Mayer, Lord and Lady Gibson, Gail Parsons, Elizabeth Diamond, Daniel Richardson, Phil Churchill.

Apologies:

David Mainhood, Murray Ambler-Shattock, Helen Whiston

Minutes accepted as correct

Treasurers Report: Current Account £218 Saving Account £1005

John Harrap queried the Victoria Square development.

A discussion regarding the Carnival concluded that it was as good as ever though poorly attended. Many agreed this could have been due to the appalling weather on the night.

Chris Knight, our President, and a colleague collected on the night and raised £35 for the chamber charity pot.

The Annual Chamber Christmas meal was enjoyed by all who attended at The Woolpack, St.Georges but, once again, only one non-executive member joined us this year. We would like to involve more members in the chamber social activities. If any member has suggestions, please forward them to the President or any other executive member.

One suggestion mooted on several occasions is the idea of lunchtime or breakfast meetings. Our Business breakfasts with Burroughs Day Solicitors are always popular.

Our breakfast at Rookery Manor was wonderfully well attended and included some very insightful talks from representatives of The Bank of England.

It has been suggested by our friends at Bridgwater chamber that they might host a combined chambers meeting in March, similar to the one we hosted successfully at Cadbury House in October.

Bridgwater are also holding a Murder Mystery Evening at Rookery Manor on January 30^th, to which all members are invited.

 For details, contact Dawn Catlow on:

 01278 785 794 or via her email www.applesandoranges.co.uk

North Somerset Enterprise Agency offered help and support to those facing redundancy due to the present economic climate.

The President was recently appointed as a Director of The Town Centre Management Partnership. The Chamber has always worked closely with other groups that reflect the many facets of business in Weston and on projects that directly or indirectly affect those of us who work or trade in the town.

The Chamber has also recently become affiliated to the group Voluntary Action North Somerset and as such, a member of the group will be speaking at a forth coming Chamber meeting.

The Chamber worked with the Town Centre Manager and Terry Gilbert of The Arts and Social Enterprise at the request of Paul Travers, from Weston Playhouse, to organize a welcome basket of goodies and services for the visiting celebrities and artists performing in the annual Pantomime at Weston's Playhouse Theatre.

Retailers such as Marks and Spencer's and Florist Carol's Flowers donated goods to a very well received gift package which hopefully introduced the players to the delights of our town.

The Chamber website is serving us well with more and more correspondence coming from the site and bringing new members each month. Advice and information is regularly updated and has met with some good responses from outside agencies, such as North Somerset Life magazine, which will be publishing an article using material found on the site and featuring an interview with the President.

The article author contacted the President via the website primarily.

Kilmartin are hoping to become more involved with local groups as are Workman and both will be attending our January meeting.

Dolphin Square played host to Father Christmas as Santa's Grotto was open in a vacant unit in the centre over the festive period. Plans are afoot for a Produce Market and other events during 2009.

The Town Centre Manager, Steve Townsend and the President Chris Knight judged the entries for the Christmas Windows Competition and, although there were only four respondents, all won awards, which were presented in person. Encouragingly, all those who received their awards were very happy to have their work recognized and display the certificates proudly.

The overall winner was Platinum Hair Salon, West St.

Cadbury House have sent out forms for the loyalty discount card for all members. This card is normally charged at £10 but is free to all Chamber members.

Any recent members who have not received a form should contact the secretary, who will forward details to Kirsty Hunt at Cadbury House.

Our latest newsletter is due to be published and distributed soon, but the continuing changing face of business makes it a very challenging project!

Our President was invited to and attended the switching on of the Burnham on Sea Christmas Lights. The lights were switched on by Michael Eavis of Glastonbury fame, and a civic reception was held afterwards which was run by the Burnham Chamber and was very popular. Our congratulations go to Alex and his team at Burnham for a great event.

A short debate was held to discuss the pro and con positions regarding the proposal for a Severn barrage. It was agreed that there were equal arguments on both sides.

We recognized with great sadness the passing of Woolworths Store in the High Street.

Correspondence Received:

Promotional from Arcadia

Newsletter from Woodspring Management Club

An application for sponsorship was received from a local youth who is aiming to represent England in Martial Arts.

Executive meeting closed at 7:55pm.

John Mayer spoke for Tax Assist Accountants.

Tax Assist are a franchise group that covers the country.

John Mayer and his partner have two practices, the other being in Taunton.

They are unique in having a shop front format as opposed to the usual offices.

They deal mainly with smaller businesses up to £100,000 turnover and specialize in mainly sole traders and partnerships.

John offers services such as:

Annual accounts

Tax Returns

Bookkeeping

Sage for clients.

They have fixed fees and free consultations, subject to conditions.

After a very well presented talk, the President thanked the speaker and, before closing the meeting, asked Christopher Batt to remind everyone about the January meeting, which is to be held at Weston College, Knightstone Campus on the 14^th.

The meeting closed at 9pm.

WESTON SUPER MARE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE

MINUTES OF MEETING, WEDNESDAY 15^th October 2008

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

PRESENT

Chris Knight (President), David Wallace, John Coombe, Jon Harrap, Val Poole, Christopher Batt, Terry Gilbert, Vickie Wheeler, Helen Whiston (secretary).

APOLOGIES

Received from Adrian Charlish, Murray Ambler-Shattock, David Mainhood, Leon Wilce.

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

 Murray Ambler-Shattock was added to the list of apologies given. Apart from this, The President was able to sign the minutes as it was felt they were a true record of the meeting.

MATTERS ARISING

There were none.

LOCAL MATTERS

a)     Some people felt that the Tourist Information Centre office ought to be moved. However, they had had 70,000 visitors and 20,000 telephone calls, so were felt to be very successful where they are.

b)     The recent beach motorbike event had been very successful.

c)     It was reported that Carter's Steam Fair wish to return to Weston for another event.

d)     The Premier Travel Inn at the Tropicana rebuild are reported to be wishing to increase their size.

e)     It was felt that the opening of Cabot Circus had affected Cribbs Causeway but hoped that Weston would benefit from people wishing to stay in the area in order to shop there.

f)       It was hoped that the problems at Junction 21 and other local trouble-spots would soon be helped by the Council's approach to Government.

g)     Dolphin Square was subject to compulsory purchase. The President explained that Kilmartin were the owners of this and Workman the managers of the site. It was felt that they wish to be involved in local matters.

h)     It was felt that the Regent Street traffic system was not working and a lot of problems were being encountered there.

i)        The return of the fairground which was at the Marine Lake area and was due to be in the High Street was now not going to take place.

j)        Some progress had been made with the town's Christmas lights and late-night shopping has been discussed. Chamber were asked to be involved in the window-dressing competition again.

k)      Several parts of the silica had been removed for repair at present but vandalism was not thought to be the cause of the parts not working.

l)        The development of Victoria Square (the Sandringham Hotel area) was progressing well and when complete, will connect the Sovereign Centre to the sea-front.

m)   The Council had passed plans for the Tropicana, which were now awaiting approval from higher authorities before work could begin. It was hoped that this would be started at the end of 2009, with the complete structure opening in 2011. It is anticipated that the retail units there will be beach-related.

n)     The design from Angus Meek has been chosen as that for the rebuilding of the Grand Pier.

o)     The owners of the Royal Pier Hotel have applied for demolition of the current structure and replacement with a new 5-star hotel and a lot of public amenities such as gymnasium and retail units. It was noted that current plans of the town will increase hotel rooms by 300 - 350.

p)     Our next business breakfast, hosted by Burroughs Day, will be on Thursday 20 November, at Rookery Manor at 8.00 to 10.00 a.m.

RECENT MEETINGS ATTENDED

a)   There had been an NISA meeting, at which the new Treasurer and Secretary were announced as Leon Wilce and Gail Parsons respectively.

b)   At a recent transport meeting, the weight restriction at the A368 had been discussed; 3,500 exemptions had now been issued.

c)   The Chamber had held a very successful meeting at Cadbury House which a lot of local Chambers and organisations had attended. John Scott of Rowan Dartington had kindly sponsored the buffet for the evening.

d)    At a recent meeting of the Town Centre Management, it was stated that Pier Square (the area opposite the front entrance of the Grand Pier) was to be developed, with better use being made of the facilities there. It was hoped that improvement of this area would shame the owners of the Grand Central Hotel to improve their building, but compulsory purchase of it would not be issued.

e)   There had been a meeting of the Social Enterprise group. There had been some excellent ideas to encourage art in the town, such as a choir competition, beach polo match, art exhibition, triathlon.

f)     There had been a meeting at Puxton Park, with a lot of local people attending, to discuss how to improve tourism in Weston because it was felt to be deteriorating. It was agreed that, although it was sad to see the destruction of the Pier, a lot of new people had come to see the wreckage and there was a lot more to do in Weston anyway, even in bad weather.

At this point, we were joined by Elizabeth Diamond.

TREASURER'S REPORT

We have £299 in our current account and £1,120 in our savings account.

The Secretary had made a list of non-payers of subscriptions and it was agreed that the President would liaise with people regarding this. She had also brought copies of the current letter which was sent out and asked that people consider this before further discussion at the next meeting.

DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS

It has been agreed that our future meetings will be as follows: January 21^st, February 18^th, March 18^th, April, 15^th, May 20^th, June 17^th (our AGM). Unless we let you know in advance that the meeting will be at another venue, they will be at Daunceys Hotel on Wednesday evenings, commencing at 7.00 p.m. for the Executive Committee and 8.00 for the general meeting.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

a)   Christopher Batt invited Chamber to hold their January meeting at Weston College; the venue is yet to be decided but members will be notified of it well in advance.

b)   Our Christmas meal is to be at the Woolpack, St Georges, on Wednesday 19^th November 7.30 for 8.00 at a cost of £8.50 per head. Please see the letter attached to these minutes.

c)   If any liaison was required at Cadbury House, Vickie offered to help out, as it was close to where she has her business.

d)   It was agreed that we were again to be involved in the Carnival and the President would contact the organisers. Would be obtained for

e)   A wreath would be obtained for Chamber's involvement in the Remembrance Day parade.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.45 p.m.

DATE OF NEXT MEETINGS

Our November meeting will be in 19^th, at the Woolpack, St. Georges, which will be purely social unless there is some urgent business to discuss.

The meeting on 17^th December will be held at Howards Citroen, Hildesheim Bridge, 7.00 for the Executive Committee and 8.00 p.m. for an open meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE

Received by Chamber until 15^th October 2008

Christmas menu from Rookery Manor

Newsletter from Woodspring Management Club

Price list from Great Western Wine

  

WESTON SUPER MARE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE

MINUTES OF MEETING, WEDNESDAY 17^th September 2008

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

PRESENT

Chris Knight (President), Christopher Batt, John Coombe, Val Poole, Jon Harrap, Adrian Charlish, Leon Wilce, Vickie Wheeler, Helen Whiston (Secretary).

APOLOGIES

Received from Jenny Clark, Terry Gilbert, John Scott, Gail Parsons and David Mainhood.

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

The President signed the minutes of our July and August meetings, as these were deemed to be a true record of events.

MATTERS ARISING

There were none.

LOCAL MATTERS

a)     Transport problems. The Council are currently getting together a proposal to put forward to the Government with regard to Junction 21, the possibility of a Park and Ride, improvements to the A370 etc. This is to be sent forward in the spring.

b)     Tropicana. Henry Boot have revealed a new set of plans, with more retail outlets on the premises. The proposals were due to be discussed by the Council early in October.

c)     Dolphin Square. All plans have now been put back as the EEC has been involved.

d)     Grand Pier. Work has been started to clear the site. There are a lot of rumours but the structure is sound and plans for rebuilding are in hand.

e)     Birnbeck Pier. All is going ahead but  behind the scenes.

f)       Locking Parklands. Local people want to buy the water tower to prevent it being redeveloped. Oxford Instruments are relocating into the business centre - they are also expanding considerably. If anyone wishes to learn more about the developments at Locking Parklands, they may see it at www.lockingparklands.co.uk

g)     Weston Airfield. It would be around 10 years before an employment park is put here, due to the necessity for a space of time once the RAF have finished with land.

h)     Cadbury House. They intend to apply for building an extension in their car-park. 

CADBURY HOUSE

We are due to hold a meeting there on 1 October with various other local Chambers, with some very interesting speakers. Jon Harrap will contact Michelle Michael and ask her to speak re the Pier and relevant local developments. Rowan Dartington have kindly agreed to sponsor the refreshments. All members of our Executive Committee are invited to attend, along with regular attendees of our general meeting.

Our President has negotiated with them a 10% discount for Chamber members off all their facilities.

AFFINITY/DISCOUNT SCHEME

It was agreed that we should try to set up a scheme where members offered discounts to other members. This would be in conjunction with the Hoteliers Association and Jon Harrap and Leon Wilce offered to help set this up.

NEW MEMBERS

Val Poole offered to contact people who have attended recent meetings and have recently joined the Chamber. The Secretary would provide her with details of who those contact were.

CURRENT MEMBERS

In terms of renewal, we are about 30% down on last year, with about half-a-dozen being £75 payers. The Secretary offered to send a second reminder letter but it was suggested that we ought to identify who had not yet renewed and contact them to ask if circumstances such as contact person had changed and why they did not wish to renew membership. The Secretary would produce such a list as soon as possible.

GENERAL MEETING

At this point, we were joined by David Wells from North Somerset Council, who would tell us of recent developments business-wise in North Somerset, plus Elizabeth Diamond, Daniel Richardson, Ian Christie, Dawn Appleford and Jeannie Beizsley. David told the meeting various things: the plans for the Tropicana rebuild were being discussed on 2^nd October. In them, the number of retail units had grown to about 30 and eating outlets to about 12. Concern was expressed about both of these, particularly as there were currently about 50 empty units between Grove Park and Carlton Street, and David would bear this in mind when the Council were discussing the plans. Concern was expressed that much development was taking place in other towns in North Somerset but David said these had no doubt been planned many years before taking place

The President had been contacted by Sally Heaven of BBC Radio 4 for the Chamber's view on the proposed Severn Barrage. If any member has any strong views on this, please contact our President on 08707 460830, who will then pass these opinions on to Radio 4.

If any member has any problems which they feel the Council should know about, please contact David Wells on 01934 888888.

TREASURER'S REPORT

We have £381 in our current account and £1120 in our savings account. The Secretary had received an invoice for £29.37 for our membership of the North Somerset Business Club and it was agreed that we should rejoin, so she was given a cheque to send them.

MEETINGS ATTENDED

There had been no recent meetings, as most organisations do not meet during the summer.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

a)     It was known that Comet and B & Q were moving into new premises but nobody knew what was happening to the old ones, although there were a few rumours. It was known that Howards were moving into the old Aldi site, to set up the Toyota business there.

b)     Daniel Richardson told the meeting that he was a private investigator operating from Weston and that Ian Christie was his assistant. They were given some suggestions to help with the set-up of a new business.

c)     Jeannie Beizsley was present at our previous meeting and had since joined Chamber. She is an acupuncturist and runs the Lotus Clinic in Weston.

d)     Dawn Appleford runs HR Department and they are setting up a regular surgery for free business advice. They need some premises and if anybody has anywhere suitable for this, please contact Dawn on 07847436792 or dawn.appleford@hrdept.co.uk. 

e)     Adrian Charlish mentioned that there was a grant available for businesses of 10 to 250 employees. If anybody wishes for more details, contact Adrian on 01275 373373 or adrian.charlish@gwebusinesswest.co.uk and ask for details of Train To Gain.

 

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

Wednesday 15^th October at Daunceys Hotel - 7.00 p.m. for the Executive Committee and 8.00 for a general meeting.

 

 

 

CORRESPONDENCE

Received by Chamber until 17^th September 2008

 

Update from GWEBusinessWest

Menu sheet from Hussains Restaurant

Notification of proposed transport upgrades from North Somerset Council

Newsletter from Woodspring Management Club

Invitation to AGM from Quartet

 

  

WESTON SUPER MARE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE

MINUTES OF MEETING, WEDNESDAY 20^TH AUGUST 2008

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

PRESENT

Chris Knight (President), Christopher Batt, Helen Whiston (Secretary).

APOLOGIES

Received from Vickie Wheeler, Dave Wallace, Val Poole, John Scott, Murray Ambler-Shattock, John Coombe, David Mainhood, Leon Wilce, Dawn Appleford.

As there were so few people attending, it was not possible to hold an Executive Committee meeting, so matters were held over until our next meeting.

GENERAL MEETING

The above were joined by Elizabeth Diamond, Jenny Clark, Jeannie Beizley and Gail Parsons.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

A meeting had been at Cadbury House, who are able to give us rooms for future meetings and have now become honorary members of our Chamber. They are offering our members discount on all their facilities - how much is not yet known, but members will be notified as soon as possible. It was hoped that we would be able to organise a meeting there with other Chambers in the area but at present we are looking for sponsors of the refreshments that evening. If anybody is able to help with this, please contact our President on 08707 460830. (We are looking for multiple sponsorship as the cost would be too much for any one individual). It was intended that PC World would give a presentation that evening; as soon as full details are known, everybody will be notified.

FUTURE SPEAKERS

These would be David Wells from North Somerset Business Development Department; Debbie Urch from Kings Ransom, telling everyone about debt avoidance; Dawn Appleford from HR Department and Tony Compton, Treasurer of the Hotels & Restaurants Association. As soon as dates have been fixed, members will be notified.  

LOCAL MATTERS

The Town Centre Management team, which is funded by the Town Council to look after that area had done an excellent job and been commended. It was intended that the number of charity collections in the High Street would be considerably reduced, as would the number of street pedlars who now have to abide by strict laws as to how they trade.

The Social Enterprise team are doing well. They are trying to get money for various projects, such as creating a permanent site for continental markets and a stage and a local land train. The group is now larger and has our Town Centre Manager Steve Townsend as a director. The Town Council are also involved. They are always looking for ideas of other facilities which are needed in Weston, so if anyone has any suggestions, please speak to Terry Gilbert on 01934 418118 or Gail Parsons on 01934 419399.

With regard to the pier fire, it was agreed that we had lost a local icon, but thankfully without loss of life. It was agreed that the pier would be rebuilt. The President had been asked to write a joint letter with the Hoteliers Association, asking the Council to ensure that no "red tape" is put in the way of the pier's restitution. Nigel Hutchings had also written a similar letter on behalf of the Bristol Chamber of Trade.   It was also agreed, and should always be emphasised, that the pier is not the only thing this town has to offer.

The weight restriction through Burrington Combe has now come into force. The police warned that they would be unable to stop lorries who were led that way. Many businesses would suffer, both large and small. There was to be a review after 6 months and it was hoped that not too many small businesses would have folded because of it.

There had been an article in the press saying that Orchard/Meadows was suffering declining trade. This had been refuted by other traders and an article saying that they were actually trading well would be put in the press. It was hoped that the Council would feel able to erect better signage, leading visitors to that area.

At a recent Town Centre meeting, it was stated from a speaker from the police that, although burglary had increased month-to-month, all other forms of crime in the area had dropped.

Nothing further had been heard about the rumour that Wyevale/Sanders were planning a large retail extension.

We would be asked to help with this year's Carnival. Last year, the President and a colleague collected, with the result that Chamber was given £60 for the charity pot.

The President emphasised that he was attempting to promote Weston & DISTRICT, so if any of our members had any concerns about matters outside the town, they should feel free to air them.

CORRESPONDENCE

The General Manager of Puxton Park had written and asked to be included in our support of the pier rebuild; we had received a number of requests for jobs - the President pointed out that we had a section relating to this on our website; Weston Hospice Care were organising a Midnight Beach Walk on Saturday 13^th September - if anybody is interested in this, either to take part or to sponsor, please contact Weston Hospicecare on 01934 423900; Cadbury House are planning some new extensions and have asked for Chamber's support in this.

TREASURER'S REPORT

In his absence the Treasurer had given the Secretary details of our accounts: we have £381 in our current account and £1,112 in our savings account.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 10.00 p.m.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

Wednesday 17^th September at Daunceys Hotel, 7.00 for the Executive Committee and 8.15 for a general meeting.

 

 

WESTON SUPER MARE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE

MINUTES OF MEETING, WEDNESDAY 16^TH JULY 2008

 

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

PRESENT: Chris Knight (President), Dave Wallace, Christopher Batt, Leon Wilce, Terry Gilbert, Murray Ambler-Shattock, Vickie Wheeler, Helen Whiston (Secretary).

APOLOGIES: Received from Mr & Mrs Gibson, John Coombe, John Scott, David Mainhood, Val Poole, Steve Townsend.

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

These were signed by the President, as they were a true record of the meeting.

MATTERS ARISING

Nothing further had been heard with regard to Tescos' planned opening of a store in Whitecross Road and it was reported that they were also planning to open in the Boulevard. Chris had tried to attend the recent meeting of the Federation of Small Business who were discussing this issue, but had been told he was not able to be present.

Leon had not yet written to the Council regarding the lack of lavatories on a bank holiday. It was hoped that the Council would be well-prepared regarding public toilets for T4 and other future events.

LOCAL MATTERS

With regard to the Tropicana, there were now plans to include a number of retail units. It was hoped that these would be new business and would not detract from the stores already in Weston.

It had been suggested that £400,000 be spent on a water park for children, at Park Place (the area beside the Old Colonial car-park, where the putting green is presently housed).

Leon confirmed that the Howards Honda golf event would be on 15^th September. He offered Chamber the chance of holding a recruitment drive on that day, by exhibiting literature etc.

The Town Centre Partnership has received an award for making the area safe.

The recent High Street Traders' meeting had been chiefly concerned with the Tropicana.

It was hoped that the Sovereign Centre would be extended into Victoria Square (the area between the Centre and the sea-front).

Christopher Batt said he felt that the Grand Central area was very tatty-looking but was told that the owners would not be spending money at present to do it up.

FUTURE MEETINGS

The President was due to meet Sasha Holloway of Cadbury House. They are keen to be involved in local events, so he was hopeful of holding some future meetings there.

It was also hoped that we could meet at the Oak & Glass Restaurant in Uphill.

A future meeting on the Pier was suggested, also at the Webbington Hotel.

 

LOCAL CHAMBERS OF TRADE

The recent meeting at Taunton had been very good. It was hoped that there would be opportunities to liaise more with them and Bridgwater Chamber in the future.

MEETINGS ATTENDED

The recent meeting at NSIA had been very good. It was confirmed that Leon was now its Treasurer and Gail Parsons the secretary.

The President had attended a recent meeting re freight issues (with about 25 people attending). It was felt that any screening of lorries by weight was impossible to implement.   The police were opposed to this and could not enforce it and the suggested display of a certificate in a lorry's wind-screen was dangerous and not permissible. There had been a number of objections since the meeting and it was hoped that the matter would be left alone in future.

Chris has been contacted with regard to the development of Wyvale/Sanders garden centre. As this was in the Sedgemoor district he could do nothing about this but we and also Bridgwater Chamber will keep a close eye on developments.

TREASURER'S REPORT

At present we have £486.63 in our current account and £1,112.97 in our savings account.

GENERAL MEETING

The Executive Committee then joined Jenny Clark, Kym Leedham, Elizabeth Diamond, Dawn Appleford, Elaine Donovan, Hilary Woodroff, Gail Parsons and Ben Smith, plus four members of PC World Business, who gave very interesting presentations about how they can help businesses. If any member wishes to learn more about how PC World Business can help them personally, please contact Simona Petyan on 01934 423062 or by email at businesssales_4250@pcworldstores.co.uk.

Murray also explained some IT principles to the meeting and explained that our website was very active and interesting.

Having thanked PC World Business for hosting a very interesting evening and providing an excellent buffet, the President explained that Chamber would always keep an eye on what is happening within the local business community, with a view to prevention rather than cure of any potential problems; we were always keeping a watch on what the Council is doing. It was confirmed that several members of our Executive Committee also serve on various other committees and his hope was to create more liaison between all the groups within the town and to make sure that they all have the right aims for the future of Weston.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.45 p.m.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

Wednesday 20^th August at Daunceys Hotel, at 7.00 p.m. for the Executive Committee and 8.00 p.m. for the more open meeting. He confirmed once again that Daunceys provide excellent bar snacks, which members should arrange if necessary before the meeting.

 

CORRESPONDENCE Received by Chamber until 19^th July 2008

Newsletter from Woodspring Management Club, Newsletter from GWEBusiness West, Letter from Peter Daynes re employment, Booklet re a course from Familiarity 2008

 

AGM

The Weston-super-Mare and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce Annual General Meeting was held at Dauncey's Hotel W-s-M on Wednesday 18th June 2008.

AGENDA
1. Apologies
2. To approve the minutes of the 28th Annual General Meeting held on Wednesday 13th June 2007 at Daunceys Hotel
3. To receive the report of the President
4. To receive the report of the Treasurer
5. Presentation of the Roger Lomas Memorial Shield
6. To elect the President for 2008/2009
7. To elect the Officers and Committee for 2008/2009
8. To consider any other business