DECEMBER 2004/JANUARY 2005 THE NEWSLETTER for CHICHESTER CHAMBER of COMMERCE and INDUSTRY Parking Concerns Chichester Business Guide See centre pages Recent strong reactions to the proposed reduction in car park spaces at the New Park Road site have shown the sensitivity of this issues from the traders point of view. The Chamber is concerned about local parking and as a result has been investigating the policy of Chichester District Council which is set out in the document ‘Chichester Car Park Strategy 2004’. Car use is set to increase further putting more pressure on the available spaces. The number of public car parking spaces in Chichester exceeds 4000. Coupled with this is the planned reduction in spaces as follows; New Park Road Car Park – reduction of spaces from 265 to 100 (down to 50 during construction). There may be further losses as follows: 10 at Little London (toilets relocation), 35 spaces at Woolstaplers, (in 2006 ), and 114 at Basin Road (in 2010). Compensating for this is an increase of 95 spaces at the Westgate Leisure Centre. As a result of the increased pressures the Council has recognised the need for a review of Park and Ride which is being carried out this year. This is based on a service being operated from the Barnfield Drive site. It is not anticipated that this service would be operating prior to 2007/2008. The initial plan appears to be that such a service would operate initially only on Wednesdays. Because of the proposed reduction in spaces at the New Park Road site there is a plan to convert this into a Medium Stay car park rather than a Long Stay car park (ie. charges would increase to 70p for one hour rather than 50p, and the over 4 hours rate increasing from £2.50 to £6). This is to discourage all day parking on the reduced number of spaces. On raising the concerns about the reduction in spaces on this site the Council suggested that the Cattle Market car park could be used as an alternative – although we are concerned about safe pedestrian crossing over St. Pancras with this suggestion. There are also plans to increase charges from first April 2005 as follows (these would hold until 2007): Short stay 1 hour to 70p, 2 hours to £ 1.50 etc. Medium stay 1 hour to 70p, 2 hours to £ 1.40 etc. Long stay 1 hour to 50p, 2 hours to £ 1 etc. Generally speaking these charges seem to be similar to those charged at Worthing and Guildford, although higher than those charged on Portsmouth (with the exception of the Cascades Shopping Mall). Overall, traders have expressed concerns about loss of car parking spaces within the city, particularly as proximity is a very important issue given the higher average age of many shoppers within Chichester. In other words although there may be a few spaces left at Avenue de Chartres for example, not everyone would be willing to walk from there to shop at the top of North Street. Park and Ride may help ease the pressure on traffic, particularly for commuters – but central car parking spaces need to be preserved for visitors and shoppers who represent the life blood of the City centre. These parking spaces also contribute significant income to the District Council. Sam Howes, Deputy Chief Executive of CDC, is coming along to the Chamber meeting on Monday 10th January at the Hilton Avisford Park to talk about the parking strategy so if you have some views please come along. FESTIVE CHEER The centre of Chichester was filled with crowds for the Christmas lights switching-on ceremony by the Mayor, Cllr Mick Shone, on December 4. Photo courtesy of Chichester Observer
Transcript
DECEMBER 2004/JANUARY 2005
THE NEWSLETTER for CHICHESTER CHAMBER of COMMERCE and INDUSTRY
Parking Concerns
Chichester Business Guide See centre pages
Recent strong reactions to the proposed reduction in car parkspaces at the New Park Road site have shown the sensitivityof this issues from the traders point of view.
The Chamber is concerned about local parking and as a resulthas been investigating the policy of Chichester District Councilwhich is set out in the document ‘Chichester Car Park Strategy2004’. Car use is set to increase further putting more pressureon the available spaces. The number of public car parkingspaces in Chichester exceeds 4000. Coupled with this is theplanned reduction in spaces as follows; New Park Road CarPark – reduction of spaces from 265 to 100 (down to 50 duringconstruction). There may be further losses as follows: 10 atLittle London (toilets relocation), 35 spaces at Woolstaplers, (in2006 ), and 114 at Basin Road (in 2010). Compensating for thisis an increase of 95 spaces at the Westgate Leisure Centre.
As a result of the increased pressures the Council hasrecognised the need for a review of Park and Ride which isbeing carried out this year. This is based on a service beingoperated from the Barnfield Drive site. It is not anticipatedthat this service would be operating prior to 2007/2008. Theinitial plan appears to be that such a service would operateinitially only on Wednesdays.
Because of the proposed reduction in spaces at the NewPark Road site there is a plan to convert this into a MediumStay car park rather than a Long Stay car park (ie. chargeswould increase to 70p for one hour rather than 50p, and theover 4 hours rate increasing from £2.50 to £6). This is todiscourage all day parking on the reduced number of spaces.On raising the concerns about the reduction in spaces on this
site the Council suggested that the Cattle Market car parkcould be used as an alternative – although we are concernedabout safe pedestrian crossing over St. Pancras with thissuggestion.
There are also plans to increase charges from first April2005 as follows (these would hold until 2007):
Short stay 1 hour to 70p, 2 hours to £ 1.50 etc. Medium stay 1 hour to 70p, 2 hours to £ 1.40 etc. Long stay 1 hour to 50p, 2 hours to £ 1 etc.
Generally speaking these charges seem to be similar tothose charged at Worthing and Guildford, although higherthan those charged on Portsmouth (with the exception of theCascades Shopping Mall).
Overall, traders have expressed concerns about loss of carparking spaces within the city, particularly as proximity is avery important issue given the higher average age of manyshoppers within Chichester. In other words although theremay be a few spaces left at Avenue de Chartres for example,not everyone would be willing to walk from there to shop atthe top of North Street. Park and Ride may help ease thepressure on traffic, particularly for commuters – but central carparking spaces need to be preserved for visitors and shopperswho represent the life blood of the City centre. These parkingspaces also contribute significant income to the DistrictCouncil.
Sam Howes, Deputy Chief Executive of CDC, is coming alongto the Chamber meeting on Monday 10th January at theHilton Avisford Park to talk about the parking strategy so ifyou have some views please come along.
FESTIVE CHEER The centre ofChichester was filled withcrowds for the Christmaslights switching-on ceremonyby the Mayor, Cllr MickShone, on December 4.Photo courtesy of ChichesterObserver
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Chichester Business News3 Chapel StreetChichester PO19 1BU
Published six times per year
Letter from the President
April / May 2002 Chichester Business News 3December 2004/January 2005 Chichester Business News 3
President for the year 2004–2005: Jonathan Harry
Forthcoming Events for Members
Monday 10th January, 6pm Networking monthly members meeting
HILTON AVISFORD PARK HOTEL, Yapton lane, Walberton BN18 0LS
Avisford Park Hotel will kindly provide the buffet and drinks. Our speakers for the evening will be Annie Meacham from Trellis Coaching and Sam Howes from Chichester District Council.Annie Meacham will be giving a talk on “Effective Marketing to get the rightclients and Sam Howes will be talking about car parking in Chichester. This promises to be an interesting evening with lots of networking opportunitiesand information on local issues.
Monday 21st February, 6pm Networking monthly members meeting
GOODWOOD MARRIOTT HOTEL, Chichester PO18 0QB
Goodwood Park Marriott will kindly provide the buffet and drinks. Our speaker for the evening will be Kathy Lewis from The Enterprise Centre who willgive a talk on “The Importance of Networking”.On arrival, BK Events will be running a speed networking session for the first 30 minutes.For those of you who have not attended a speed networking event before, you will findit great fun. Make sure you bring lots of business cards and any relevant literature onyour business. We will be joined by the members of “ecademy networking group” and so there will be masses of networking opportunities.
The Chamber of Commerce is very grateful to The Chichester Observer for sponsoring the costs of postageof this newsletter to our members. We would also like to thank Barclays Bank plc for their assistance in
postage to businesses outside the city.
PresidentJonathan Harry T 787077Vice-PresidentVacant
TREASURER Rosemary Hodge T 781970
BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE Julie HarrisonM 07796 950054
Business Affairs CHAIRMAN Jonathan Harry T 787077Geoff Bass T 576622Jennifer Schofield T 787427Rosemary Hodge T 781970
Town Centre & PlanningJoyce Tidy T 778877Chris Whitmore-Jones T 783103Sarah Barnett T 774613
CONTACTS
I am pleased to say that an excitingprogramme of members meetings has beenarranged for the first six months of 2005 withthe help of Julie Harrison, our businessrepresentative. Find out more in the enclosedcalendar of events. The aim is to make themeetings more informal in style with plentyof opportunity for networking.
If you are interested in helping theChamber further by getting involved with its
executive board please let me know. I amintending to stand down as President after mytwo year term at the AGM in March 2005 andam looking for an enthusiastic successor. Thisis an excellent opportunity to contribute tothe success of the local economy and to raisethe profile of your business.
In the meantime I wish you all a greatChristmas and a prosperous 2005.
Business Affairs / Promotions
4 Chichester Business News December 2004/January 2005
News in Brief
Most probably by the time you read this, “SeaBritain 2005” will beunderway and I hope that all our readers will take the opportunity tosupport at least one of the events taking place in Chichester. I also trustthat business in general will reap the rewards of the very large numberof tourists visiting the area to view the major events taking place inPortsmouth and the Solent. The Chichester calendar of events will behosted on the Chichester Maritime website and will be uploaded in thenext few weeks. The site will be updated as events are announced andwill also provide links to the many other celebrations of our seagoingheritage taking place in the South East. If you know of an event that isnot listed, then please email the webmaster at chichester-maritime.org.uk. As part of the International Festival Of the Sea (IFOS)next year, there will be an extremely large Marine Careers Festival heldin the area. Anyone wishing information should [email protected] is intended to upgrade the Action Stations centre in the heritage areaof Portsmouth Royal Dockyard to an inter-active marine science centre.We are looking for marine companies with ideas, displays orexperiments to contribute their expertise to make this a unique centre.
How to Compare Your Business Rates Valuation OnlineDo you know how your business rates valuationis arrived at or how it compares to that of othersimilar properties?
Occupiers of shops, factories and offices cannow see how their rateable value is arrived at,through their Summary Valuation. Visit thewebsite address below and compare yourvaluation to that of similar properties.
As well as being able to view your valuationonline, 1.3m Summary Valuations are being sentout in the post from 4th October for four weeksand you should look out for yours, checkwhether the details are correct and amend theform if necessary.
➔ For further information about Summary Valuations
or any aspect of business rates visit:
www.ebulletins.co.uk/l/?796119.578583.UVMMIHLO.0
Maritime Report
The A27 briefing held on the 30 November 2004 at EastPallant House was introduced by Norman Boyland, Chairmanof WSEP. Norman stressed the need for local businesssupport for the scheme. Without major local business supportthe scheme was in danger of getting thrown out by theDepartment of Transport again and this was possibly the lastchance to get any major work done to the Chichester Bypass.
Colin McKenna, WSCC, then introduced the proposal that isout for consultation. This involved a raised roundabout at theFishbourne junction with the A27 going under, a flyover forthe A27 at the Bognor roundabout and improvements to thePortfield (Sainsbury's) roundabout. The other three junctionswould be left in, left out with various road improvements atthese junctions including a proposed link road from theStockbridge Road to the Fishbourne roundabout. At thesethree junctions buses would be able to travel on thenorth/south route using controlled traffic lights. Park and ridesites would be provided.
The feeling from business people who attended themeeting was that any improvements to the Chichester Bypasshad to be a win/win situation for the local economy andbusiness alike. Individual concerns with traffic flow werediscussed and WSCC stated that all concerns will be listened toand amendments made if it was found to be a better solution.
However, due to the time scale involved, suggestions weremade that some lower budget works could be carried out inthe meantime that would bring some improvement to theChichester Bypass:• A consolidated investigation into getting the school run offthe roads and on to subsidised school buses.• An investigation into starting 'park & ride' for commutersinvolving the major employers in the city - WSCC, CDC, St.Richard's Hospital and the colleges.• Peak period traffic lights on Stockbridge & Hunstonroundabouts• Improvements to roads on the Manhood peninsular includingDell Quay Road & Wophams Lane• Filter lanes going west from the Stockbridge, Hunston andPortfield roundabouts
Brian Taylor, Executive member of PEP, at the end of themeeting re-iterated Norman Boyland's opening remarks thatthis plan must be seen by government to have the backing ofthe local businesses. Responses to the proposals have to be inby 28 February 2005 sent to Major Projects Division, Room 2C,Highways Agency, Federated House, London Road, Dorking,Surrey RSZ.
➔ Dedicated websites showing the proposals can be found at
www.westsussex.gov.uk and
www.highways.gov.uk/chichesteranda27proposals
A27 DevelopmentA27 Meeting 30 November 2004 at East Pallant House
➔ For more information on Chichester Maritime or Marine South East please
W www.chichester-maritime.org.uk or www.marinesoutheast.co.uk
Business Affairs / Promotions
December 2004/January 2005 Chichester Business News 5
At the end of the summer Fishbourne Roman Palace heardthe news it has long been waiting for. At its meeting in July,the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) awarded The SussexArcheological Society £2.54 million in response to its bid fora grant to enable Fishbourne Roman Palace to save itsprecious collection of Roman floor mosaics and develop thePalace for the 21st century.
The HLF grant combined with funds raised through theMillion Pound Mosaic Appeal mean that Fishbourne canrenovate and refurbish the building protecting its famousmosaic floors, improve physical and intellectual access to thesite and build a Collections Discovery Centre to facilitate theexpansion of its award winning education programme andhouse both Fishbourne’s and Chichester District Museum’sreserve collections.
David Rudkin, director of Fishbourne said: “We areabsolutely thrilled. All the hard work during the past 3 yearshas now paid off. I would like to thank everyone who hasbeen involved and all those who have supported our MillionPound Mosaic Appeal thus far. With the HLF grant, supportfrom Chichester District Council, The Sussex ArcheologicalSociety and the Appeal we now have all but £180,000 tocomplete the first phase of the development.”
The plan is to make a start this winter with the aim ofbeing complete for spring 2006. The works schedule has beendesigned to ensure the Palace will be able to remain open asnormal throughout the programme. For the next six monthsthe Palace will be focusing on raising the £180,000 it needs tocomplete the project.
The focus will then shift to raising the additional £300,000required to redisplay the museum which needs to be completeby 2010.
John Manley, Chief Executive of The Sussex ArcheologicalSociety said, “The development of Fishbourne Roman Palace isone of the most significant events in the 160 year history ofthe Society. It will ensure that the Palace can fulfil theexpectations of visitors, students, historians and archaeologistsfor generations to come and proudly take its place alongsideother Roman archeological sites of global importance.”
The team at Fishbourne continue to develop exciting andinnovative ways for companies and individuals to support theAppeal. Support of any kind is extremely valuable. Examplesso far include: the Cartridges for Cash scheme with CartridgeWorld, Miller Hughes hosted corporate reception at the Palacein September, a cash donation made recently by ThomasEggar Solictors, and the free airtime to promote the Appealand events supplied by Spirit FM.
Tracey Richardson, from the Palace said, “We are keen towork with Chamber members to see how we can help themachieve their corporate social responsibility objectives, whilstpromoting their goods and services through supporting theMillion Pound Mosaic Appeal. We are flexible and open to
innovative ideas to ensure a win win partnership in everycase.”
One of the fundraising highlights so far has been the firstever Roman themed Family Fun Day at Fontwell ParkRacecourse. Held last May it proved a winning combinationfor sponsors and racegoers alike, with plenty of fun romanactivities for the children to enjoy and excellent corporatehospitality opportunities for sponsors.
In fact it was so successful that a date has already been setfor 2005 - put it in your diary now Sunday May 29.
Next year’s event will be bigger and better, with moreactivities - Roman Army displays, thrilling racing andopportunities to win fabulous prizes in the raceday drawer.
Working in partnership with Fontwell Park Racecourse wehave put together a range of special packages for Chamber ofCommerce members, enabling them to enjoy a wide range ofbenefits in return for supporting the event, examples include: • A Race and Hospitality Package – Name a race andentertain 10 or more guests in a private box, enjoy a 3 coursesilver service lunch, champagne reception and free bar. Yourlogo will appear on all advertising, posters and flyerspromoting the raceday and on the day you can have bannersat the course, a vehicle or stand promoting your business, anadvertisement in the programme and present the prizes tothe winners. • Donate the star prize for the raceday draw or Roll-A-Dicecompetition – a family holiday for example, and have avehicle or stand at the course promoting your companythroughout the day and regular mentions over the course PA.
Kirstie Scott from Fontwell Race course and TraceyRichardson from Fishbourne Roman Palace presented theseand a variety of other support ideas at the Chamber meetingon November 8.
➔ If you have any questions or any fundraising suggestions please
Fishbourne Roman Palaceawarded £2.54 Million Heritage Lottery Fund
Chamber President Jonathan Harry and Mark Scrase-Dickins formerlyHigh Sheriff of West Sussex at Fishbourne Roman Palace.
Business Affairs / Promotions
6 Chichester Business News December 2004/January 2005
News in Brief
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Business Support available from theEconomic Development Service
The Economic Development Service at Chichester DistrictCouncil is here to help you, whether you are an establishedcompany, thinking of starting a new business or relocating tothe area.
Business Support Officers are available to discuss any issuesthat impact upon the growth and development of your business.This may involve co-ordinating preliminary planning enquiries,assisting with staff training and retention, or supporting youwith environmental matters. Whatever your needs, the BusinessSupport Officers will provide you with a first class confidentialsupport and advice service, without charge.
The Economic Development Service is also able to refer youto all relevant business support and advice agencies. If youwould like to speak to an officer on a particular business issue,please contact one of the following Business Support Officers:
Businesses in the North of the District contact Aleksandra Petrovic:
Alternatively, take a look at the website: www.chichester.gov.uk
CDC has received many objections to the above development.A great number came from the Hornet & St PancrasAssociation who feel strongly about the loss of car parkingfrom the New Park Road Car Park. The Chamber also voicedtheir concerns over the loss of parking (plus the additionalloss from Little London Car Park) for visitors and shoppers.
There is great concern that although the planning applicationby Seaward addresses many of the objections which wereraised on the previous application, the application still falls farshort of the original development brief for that site. Shippamssite and the Eastgate site are really the only sites in the centreof the city for any retail / office expansion but housing landachieves a better price than commercial. CDC, Seaward andthe Church are the landowners of the Eastgate site – is thereconflict of interests?
The planning application will go before the full CDCcommittee in March following discussion with English Heritageand concerned archeological groups.
Government to offer more generous and targeted support to small firmsThe Government has welcomed Teresa Graham'srecommendations on the future of the Small Firms LoanGuarantee (SFLG), introduced to help individuals overcome theproblems obtaining the finance to start up new smallbusinesses and also help small businesses expand.
The new recommendations include expanding the lendinglimits to £250,000 per business, reducing the bureaucracysurrounding the scheme and raising the turnover limit to£5.6million for all eligible businesses.
➔ An electronic copy of the review's final report is available on
the Treasury website: www.hm-treasury.gov.uk
DDA tax breaksIn an attempt to soften the financial blow to small businessesinflicted by the amendments to the Disability DiscriminationAct (DDA) 1995, the Government has published a reminderabout the available tax breaks.
The amended DDA, which came into force on 1 October2004, requires businesses to take reasonable steps to improveaccess for disabled customers and staff. Tax allowances areavailable to help small business to achieve this and the newguidance sets out the current tax breaks giving examples ofcommonly made adjustments.
December 2004/January 2005 Chichester Business News 7
Come and join us at this year’s Annual Business Rates meetingand hear the award winning garden designer Jan Howard andher project manager Adam Hunt. They have agreed to talkabout one of the most exciting projects in the North of theDistrict, the restoration of the walled garden adjacent to theCowdray Ruins in Mydhurst. Jan and Adam will outline theprogress being made on the renovation of the gardens and itspotential impact on local businesses.
Simon Pattinson of Montezuma’s Chocolates will give you aninsight into why two successful solicitor from London decidedto locate their new business venture in the heart of the District.
Whether your business is large or small, start-up, wellestablished or working from home, by joining us you will beable to:
• Find out all about the impact of the exciting restorationworks on the Cowdray Ruins on your business
• Hear about the real reasons why a key local businessmanlocated his new business in the district
• Have YOUR SAY on our plans to support local business• Network with other local businesses and benefit from
future business contractsDon't miss out on yet another chance to get the New Year offto a good start!Wednesday the 12th of January 2005, 5:30pm – 7:30pm atChichester District Council Offices, East Pallant House.To take advantage of this opportunity, please contact theEconomic Development Service by telephoning (01243)534669, or by emailing [email protected].
Making A Difference
The Challenge of InnovationOpportunities, Risks & Rewards
The Make a Difference (MAD) conference organised by theEconomic Development Service held at West Dean College,was well received by local businessmen and women.
Held on Tuesday October 12, the conference which was thesecond of its kind, built upon the successes and identifiedareas of improvement from the first. It provided an excellentopportunity for local businesses to gather in a relaxedenvironment and have a direct influence on the way theirbusiness is supported by the council and local supportagencies, by way of a SWOT analysis.
Four facilitators took the group sessions, which were splitinto Strengths and Weakness, Opportunities and Threats.Businesses were able to raise any current difficulties or problemsthat they had been experiencing and explain the type ofsupport they were looking for that is not already on offer.
The business people enjoyed being involved in a proactive,participative event where they could express their voice, shareinformation and network formally as part of a group.
Colin Ranger from Coy Ices said: 'I did not realise that therewere so many support agencies available! The information Ihave gained is so useful….’.
In addition to all of these benefits, the event provided anexcellent opportunity for delegates to learn from each otherand the useful feedback gathered will aid with shaping thefuture of business support on offer from the service.
➔ For further information please contact Kim Pellett x4845:
Economic Development Service Chichester District Council
East Pallant House 1, East Pallant Chichester PO19 1TY
Chichester District Council is required to consult with people who pay non-domestic rates in its area in accordance with Section65 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 and the Non-Domestic Ratepayers Regulations 1992.
Business Affairs / Promotions
8 Chichester Business News December 2004/January 2005
The findings from recent research to benchmark the level ofservice offered by retailers in Chichester against other townsin Sussex was released in November. The study was carriedout on behalf of business support organisation SussexEnterprise to launch the Retail Skills Plus initiative, whichaims to help retailers up-skill their businesses and tohighlight areas in need of improvement.
The results show that Chichester is above the Sussex averagefor having knowledgeable and friendly staff, attractivewindow displays and a clean and tidy town centre. Howeveron average staff are not clearly visible within the shop, areunlikely to cross-sell products and are less skilled usingadvertising and promotions when compared to other Sussextowns. Following presentation of the study to localbusinesses, People Development Advisers (PDAs) from SussexEnterprise will be visiting individual businesses and advisethem on how best to develop their skills. The PDAs havedetails on over 100 courses that are being discounted oroffered free as a result of the initiative.
The survey was conducted by mystery shoppers, who carriedout retail surveys in Chichester, Bexhill, Brighton North Laines,Eastbourne, Horsham and Worthing. The shoppers covered morethan 20 shops in Chichester looking at all aspects of the consumerexperience including helpfulness and knowledge of staff,
presentation of products and the interior and exterior of thebuildings. The research carried out in Chichester also highlightsthat the town has poor public transport links and expensiveparking when benchmarked against other retail centres.
Danny Roberts from Sussex Enterprise said, “In anincreasingly competitive retail environment the self-serviceapproach to shopping leaves a gap that smaller retailers are ina good position to fill. The study shows that Chichester is notcurrently capitalising on this and so the Retail Skills Plusinitiative has been launched to help local retailers re-focus andfind a new competitive edge. Retails Skills Plus encouragesbusinesses to see themselves in relation to larger retailers andother town centres and, as a result, the overall shoppingexperience in Chichester will improve to the benefit of thelocal economy, employers and employees.”
➔ If you would like more information on this report, please
The Retail Skills Plus initiative is a joint project between SussexEnterprise and the Sussex Learning and Skills Council utilizingEuropean Social Funding. It aims to assist 240 businesses acrossSussex identify their training needs and help their employeesimprove their skills and personal development.
Survey Reveals Window Displays More Visable Than StaffBenchmarking the Chichester Shopping Experience to Help Raise Standards of Retail
Business Affairs / Promotions
December 2004/January 2005 Chichester Business News 9
Monday 10th January 2005
Networking Chamber Monthly Meeting
Venue: Hilton Avisford Park, Yapton Lane, Walberton, BN180LS
Time: 6pm – 8.15pmBuffet Provided
Speaker: Sam Howes – Deputy Chief Executive ChichesterDistrict Council
Speaker: Annie Meacham
Topic: Effective Marketing to get the right client
Minute to Win it Presentation by three Chamber members
Monday 21st Feburary 2005
Networking Chamber Monthly Meeting
Venue: Marriott Goodwood Park Hotel, Goodwood,Chichester, PO18 0QB
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm in the Cedar SuiteBuffet Provided
Speaker: Kathy Lewis, The Enterprise Centre
Topic: The Importance of Networking
Prize Draw kindly sponsored by: Fishbourne Roman Palace www.sussexpast.co.uk
Minute to Win it Presentation by three Chamber members
Friday 11th March 2005
Networking Breakfast MeetingJoin us for a networking breakfast meeting and get theday off to a great start.
Venue: Chanterelle Restaurant 149 St Pancras, Chichester,West Sussex PO19 SH www.chanterelle-restaurant.co.uk
Time: 7.30am – 9.00am£7.25 per head Full English Breakfast – Tickets can bepurchased from Chamber office 01243 531765
Monday 14th March 2005
Annual AGM
Venue: The Ship Hotel, North Street, Chichester, PO19 1NH
Time: 6pm – 8.00pmTea and Coffee provided
Monday 11th April 2005
Networking Chamber Monthly Meeting
Venue: Fontwell Park Racecourse, Fontwell Park, NearChichester, BN18 0SX
Time: 6pm – 8.15pmBuffet Provided
“Behind the Scenes”Tour of Fontwell RacecourseVideo race with bottle of Champagne for the winner
Prize Draw kindly sponsored by:Chichester Festival Theatre www.cft.org.uk
Minute to Win it Presentation by three Chamber members
Monday 9th May 2005
Networking Chamber Monthly Meeting
Venue: Fishbourne Roman Palace, Salthill Road, Fishbourne,Chichester, PO19 3QR
Time: 6pm – 8.15pmBuffet ProvidedArtifacts quiz on arrival with buffet
Speaker: Mayor of Chichester
Speaker: David Rudkin
Topic: Overview of Fishbourne Roman Palace
Prize Draw kindly sponsored by:Fishbourne Roman Palace www.sussexpast.co.uk
Minute to Win it Presentation by three Chamber members
Monday 13th June 2005
Networking Chamber Monthly Meeting
Venue: Chichester Marina, BirdhamMeeting to be held at the Yacht Club
Time: 6pm – 8.15pmBuffet Provided
“Behind the Scenes”Tour of Chichestser Marina
Speaker: Iain Shepherd
Topic: Sea Britain
Prize Draw kindly sponsored by:Chichester Festival Theatre www.cft.org.uk
Minute to Win it Presentation by three Chamber members
Calendar of Future EventsPut Them In Your Diary Now!
The Chamber would like to thank all of the hosts, speakers and prizegivers for their generosity in providing buffets, venues, interestingpresentations and prizes. As a self-funding organisation, we all need toactively encourage new members. If you would like to bring a guest to
one of our meetings with a view to them joining the Chichester Chamberof Commerce & Industry, please do not hesitate to contact the Chamberoffice on 01243 531765 or email to [email protected] or writeto: 3 Chapel Street, Chichester, PO19 1BU
10 Chichester Business News December 2004/January 2005
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Business Affairs / Promotions
12 Chichester Business News December 2004/January 2005
US Election Boost for Chichester BusinessOn Your Metal
Chichester businessman Neil Henderson had not been payingtoo much attention to the run-up to the American elections…until he received a last-minute call from the US Embassy inLondon ordering thousands of his products for election night.
Neil – who runs Henderson Global Imports, based at Itchenor,West Sussex – was asked to supply the embassy with aninnovative Brollymac machine and 6,000 bags.
It was available to use on the night (Tue 2 Nov) by 3,000 partyguests as they arrived at the US Embassy in London to watch theresults of the elections roll in.
Henderson Global Imports is the only company in Britain thatimports The Brollymac – a simple gadget that quickly wrapsplastic bags around wet umbrellas.
“It was rather an unusual last minute order,” said NeilHenderson, “but it’s great that we could help out the USelection.
“Embassy staff obviously know how rainy it is here inNovember and decided to prepare well for the party. They evenordered 100 rain capes for staff to wear as they meet and greetguests.”
➔ If you’d like to know more about the Brollymac:
T 01243 513511 W www.hgimports.com
BX Fabrications, a newdivision of BX Plant Limitedof Lavant, have justcompleted their firstcontracts. Started in October2004, BX Fabrications wonthe contract to supply‘talkgrills’ to a stablemanufacturer in Billingshurst,launch trailers for a boatyardand railings for a local pub.
BX Fabrications are able tomanufacture most metalitems – we can cut it, bend it,weld it and paint it (orgalvanise it).
➔ For further details contact
Rosemary Hodge: T 01243
781970
December 2004/January 2005 Chichester Business News 13
David ThurlowAssociates Limited
Business and ManagementConsultants
Specialists in helping businesses of all sizes to …
Lever House, Lavant Road, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 5RG
Business Affairs / Promotions
Dinamik Launch For Chichester Company
A Chichester company has launched a new high-tech “talentmanagement” system. Dinamiks is the first computersoftware product of its kind and the brainchild of the citycentre company iK Developments.
Eager firms from across the country have already snapped upthe revolutionary system, which was launched at theChartered Institute of Personnel and Development annualconference and exhibition in Harrogate last month.
iK Developments say Dinamiks will help organisations andbusinesses to flourish by looking after their most importantasset… their employees.
The system is simple to use, clearly shows employeestrengths and areas that need development, and alsohighlights specific behaviours, skills, qualifications anddiversity. It can save money by helping companies to give theright training to the right people.
iK Developments Managing Director Simon Barnes believesthat Dinamiks will revolutionise the way businesses andorganisations approach appraisals and people development.
He said: “The content of Dinamiks is clearly tailored to beunique and individual to each organisation.
“I believe it will benefit businesses in many ways, forexample, by helping them retain more staff. It will also help
employees – giving them the opportunity to keep track oftheir goals and achievements all year round. It is verymotivational because, at the click of a button, they can see theprogress they are making.”
Dinamiks helps people to explore possible future roles –they can easily tap into the system and find out the skills andqualifications that are needed for different jobs within thecompany.
Quite simply, each employee can do his or her own careerplanning as easily as managers can identify “high flyers” whensuccession planning.
➔ To find out more about iK Developments visit the company’s
website at www.ikdevelopments.com or call T 01243 538835
Participate in our success. Creative design and management, plus our top search engine rankings and huge number of visitors, ensures your website really works for you – a winning package.
See www.chichesterweb.co.uk for examples and price list or contact Ian Burt on 01243 785024 or [email protected]
Websites from £149
RPM Top The League With Book Award
RPM celebrated its 30th anniversary last year and holds animpressive array of printing awards including being aprestigious Xerox Premier Partner, one of only 36 companies inthe UK. Operating from a 10,000 sq ft factory in Quarry Lane,Chichester, the business has maintained a strong capitalinvestment programme and as a result is able to incorporatethe latest developments in both traditional and electronicprinting methods alongside offset litho and state of the artdigital printing.
The company held a Publishers Forum in London the dayfollowing the awards ceremony, attended by over thirtypublishers with key speakers from the printing and publishingsector, including a speaker from Xerox. Publishers exploredissues such as gaining better access to markets, improvedquality, reducing print costs and supply chain managementand distribution as well as marketing and selling books.
Chichester based company RPMPrint and Design, who specializein short print run digitalprinting for the publishing andself publishing market, iscelebrating winning one of themost prestigious awards in theprinting calendar which placesthem firmly at the top of theleague when it comes to digitalbook production.
At an Awards ceremony anddinner held in London on 9
November RPM was named winner of the Xerox SponsoredDigital category in the British Book Design and ProductionAwards 2004. The ceremony was attended by over twohundred and fifty guests from major publishing houses aroundthe UK. The British Book Design and Production Awards issponsored by the British Printing Industries Federation, OxfordBrooks University and the Publishers Association and includescategories across a range of titles including educational,children’s books and non fiction.
RPM entered a book called The Redtailed Hawk written inSpanish by Spanish author Beatrice e. Candil Garcia andpublished by Moyhill. The book was chosen as winner because ofits reproduction of high quality full colour photographs,intelligent use of material, layout, eye catching designs and style.
The publishers, David and Sally Cronin of Moyhill, were onhand to receive the award along with Jonathan Harry,Managing Director of RPM. RPM was one of the first in the UKto invest in digital technology ten years ago and has steadilybuilt on this over the years diversifying into new marketsincluding publishing and self publishing and further increasingits niche in the journals production and print on demand.
Jonathan Harry says, ‘ We are absolutely thrilled to win thisaward especially as we were up against some majorcompetition. It will enhance our reputation as one of theleading players in the digital book printing sector.’
Jonathan Harry of RPMand Pete Smith of Xerox
Members’ News
December 2004/January 2005 Chichester Business News 15
Welcome to our New MembersKeith NewsEmsworth, Hampshire 07808 790172
KEITH NEWS Keith News is a corporate communications agency. Our serviceshelp businesses maximise the effectiveness of theircommunications whether they are internal to staff and peers,or externally to the media. After a communications healthaudit we learn the communications needs and devise tailor-made solutions.
Nick Keith trained as a journalist, with 10 years on TheTimes and 5 years as Editorial Director of Reed BusinessPublishing. So he thinks like a journalist and works like acorporate.
After 15 years in corporate communications, his analyses ofissues around communicating have served large utilities suchas Eastern Electricity; global enterprises such as Shell Oil,PricewaterhouseCoopers, Regus, the IOC, and Rolls-RoyceMotor Cars; property companies, such as Knight Frank; nicheorganisations like the British Quality Foundation; and localfirms, such as Davys (London), Scriptographic (Alton), and CarConsultancy (Petersfield.)
Count on Keith News to make your communications count.
FROGFOOT DESIGN Frogfoot Design is web design business specialising in modernand effective web sites that actually work. Strong emphasis isplaced upon positive user experience and latest codingstandards are adhered to for accessibility, compatibility andsearch engine friendliness. 95% of our work is rebuildingexisting sites which don't work effectively - most of whichhave been less than a year old! How's your site?
Frogfoot Design is run by Mark Laurence – umm, and Frog,but I won't go into that here. Visit our website!
For those who need to know more about membership, please contact: Julie Harrison T/F 01243 531765 E [email protected]
MBL (MARK BLOXHAM LTD)The UK recruitment scene has seen substantial changes inrecent years. Having been able to pick and choose from a widevariety of applicants for any job, employers now findthemselves struggling to fill gaps at many levels. But now,with the extension of the EU membership in May 2004, thereis a wealth of new employees discovering work opportunitiesin the UK.
Local Chamber member, Barry Fitzgerald, has been workingwith his Newcastle colleague, Mark Bloxham, who hasestablished a new way of recruiting reliable employees. Heand a Lithuanian co-director, Tomas Kucinskas, use theopportunities created by this extended European Union tooffer staff through their specialist recruitment agency. Theymatch the conscientious workers of his home in WesternEurope to the jobs market here in the UK.
Tomas and Mark had the idea of combining the Lithuanianworkforce that they knew so well with the British employmentmarket in order to create a relationship that British businesswould find hard to ignore. With a strong desire to place theirwork ethic in a market that appreciates it, Lithuaniannationals were literally queuing at Tomas’ home, once theyheard of the opportunity that had been created.
So, MBL offers a straightforward package to West Sussexbusinesses: honest, hardworking and loyal staff fromLithuania. They are ideal for unskilled to semi-skilled work infactory production lines, warehousing and logistics.
Each is carefully chosen for their commitment, their skillsand their determination to succeed in an English-speakingenvironment. And MBL checks employment history andreferences BEFORE they are introduced to UK employers.
MBL has the essential Lithuanian government license tooperate as a recruitment agency and the company is one of avery few that hold this paperwork. “We have obtained andcompleted all necessary documentation and licenserequirements from both the Lithuanian and ourgovernments,” explained Mark Bloxham.
➔ Contact Barry Fitzgerald to find out more:
MBL, Forum House, Stirling Road, Chichester PO19 7DN
16 Chichester Business News December 2004/January 2005
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
New Chairperson for TBI Network
The Friday Network Groups meet once a month (on theirrelevant Friday!) and are open to anyone – just turn up withsome promotional material and say hello.
First Friday Meet at The Ship Hotel, North Street, Chichester.1.00 – 2.00 pm Brassiere bar, free car parking.
➔ For further information contact: Steve Wilson
T 01243 787100 W www.firstfriday-network.co.uk
Second FridaysMeet at the Clumpp Inn, Chilworth, SO16 7J.12.00 – 14.00 – its free, no joining fee or subscription,no booking, just turn up, bring lots of business cards.
➔ For further information contact: Ian Anderson T 02380 730673
Third Fridays Meet at The Langstone Hotel, Northney Road, Hayling Island, in the Compass Bar. 12.00 – 2.00pm Free car parking, see web site for directions.
➔ For further information contact: Caroline Abraham/Sam Steane
SWAN – Sussex Women's Alternative Network Meet monthly – informal organisation offering advice andintroduction to members/associate members, a web sitefor members, newsletters, and seminars. Also networking andsocial events are high on the agenda.
➔ For further information contact: Diana Horner T 01273 685 267
Talking Women Women's networking group. Next meeting 11th November atthe Ship Hotel at 12.00/12.30.
➔ For further information contact: Lou Williams
T 07801 930102 W www.talking-women.com
If you are a member of a networking group that would like to promote itself in the Chamber newsletter or have an event coming up soonthat you would like to publicise please contact Julie Harrison T/F 01243 531765 E [email protected]
Members’ News
Global import supremo Neil Henderson has taken over thereins of The Business Interchange at Chichester. Neil, who runshis worldwide business from offices at Itchenor, West Sussex,has been named as the new chairman of the group withimmediate effect. He takes over from Business Travel Solutionsboss Christine Gandy, who has been in the saddle for the pastsix months.
Other changes at the top include the appointment ofmanagement consultant Laurence Duffell of the firm ButlerLaurence as co-ordinator, Peter Baldwin, whose companyoffers accountancy and taxation services, as treasurer, andMichael Topper, the Director of Chichester’s new EducationCentre Kip McGrath, will oversee referrals and leads.
The Business Interchange – founded in Chichester two yearsago – is a refreshingly different networking group that hassuccessfully generated more than £100,000 of business
between members so far. They have also had a lot of fun andraised vital cash for local charities with events such as trips tothe races. New TBI’s have also now been formed in Arundel,Bognor and Fareham, with others planned shortly forGuildford and Southampton.
The Chichester group meet for breakfast every Thursdaymorning at Goodwood. It has more than 20 members but iscurrently looking for more.
Neil Henderson said: “TBI is a fun networking event. It isnot just about referring business between members, it alsooffers brilliant support and even education - as we regularlyhear from informative, interesting speakers.”
➔ TBI costs just £25 to join and members then pay £9 for a
delicious breakfast which includes warm bacon rolls, smoked salmon,
fresh fruit and as much tea and coffee as you can drink. See below.
December 2004/January 2005 Chichester Business News 17
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Contact Jonathan Phillips for advice or a quotation.Green on Red are local IT specialists with 15 years’ experience
and are a partner to these manufacturers: Microsoft, Dell, Hewlett Packard, Cisco, Linksys and Netgear
Let us be your local IT solutions and support partner.
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18 Chichester Business News December 2004/January 2005
ACCOUNTING TRAINING and more...
Every company needs somebody who is trained to deal with the accounts–we can provide that training!
We employ highly qualified tutors to teach our Sage book-keeping courses which lead to anapproved qualification. If you want your staff to go a step further, we can provide training for
AAT qualifications, up to Technician stage, which may be Government-funded.
We also offer training for Modern Apprentices in the following areas:Administration, Care, Early Years, Catering, Craft Trades, Customer Services, Engineering,
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If you already employ young people aged 16-25, or are considering doing so, please contact SUSSEX TRAINING for further information, on:
01243 532500Sussex training is an Equal Opportunities provider
