Hythe’s Future
Two major planning issues in Hythe are being discussed tomorrow by Shepway’s Development Control Committee – and Channel Chamber is speaking in support of both applications. As a business support organisation your Chamber firmly believes that Hythe will benefit from a new Sainsbury’s store as well as the refurbishment of the Hythe Imperial Hotel and relevant property development. Although these are hugely different, both offer Hythe the opportunity to attract more visitors and will encourage them to spend their money locally. More local jobs are also a vital ingredient for our local economy and hopefully, both developments may even stimulate other businesses to review their plans and think of Hythe as a place they want to relocate to.
The public gallery at the Civic Centre in Folkestone is most likely to be full of objectors to these applications, but if any Chamber members want to join us in support please ensure you arrive before 6.30pm to secure a seat.
Kent Property Market Report
The eighteenth edition of the Kent Property Market report has been published last Friday reviewing activity and major property deals throughout 2008-09. Encouragingly this report reveals that despite the economic situation,the Kent commercial property sector has continued a relatively healthy performance over the last year. The report also looks in detail at residential, tourism, retail and this year also the rural sector.The regeneration section features current and planned developments across Kent and Medway, focusing particularly on the growth areas of Kent - Thames Gateway Kent and Ashford. The report is available to view online via www.kentpropertymarket.co.uk.
Electronic VAT Returns and Payments from April 2010
For all businesses with an annual turnover exceeding £100,000 compulsory electronic filing of Vat returns and electronic payment of Vat begins on 1st April 2010.In addition all new businesses registering for VAT from 1st April 2010 will be required to file returns and pay electronically irrespective of their size.Unlike the introduction of online filing for PAYE returns, where the filing was optional and a financial incentive was paid to encourage online filing, the Vat change is compulsory and no incentive will be provided.
To register online on your own behalf you will first need to register with the Government Gateway. To start this process choose VAT Online from the green box on the HMRC homepage (www.hmrc.gov.uk) and then click on new users
Alcohol Awareness Week
This national campaign runs from 19 to 25 October and aims to encourage adults to think about how much they are drinking. Did you know that nearly one in three men and one in five women drink more than the NHS recommended unit guidelines for alcohol? Employers are being asked to get involved and to help promote this initiative amongst their staff and information is available inline at: http://www.alcohollearningcentre.org.uk/_library/AAW_stakeholder_pack.pdf
Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening
A Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening is being held on 6 November at the Ashford International Hotel organised by Chamber member – Spire Health Care (Spire St Saviour’s Hospital). Chamber members and their staff are welcome to attend and will receive a free consultation (normal cost £100). To book on this event please call 01303 233766.
Risk Management
Business insurance and risk management are closely related. The insurance is there to provide protection when the incident occurs and it works best when the claim is dealt with swiftly and efficiently.
However good your insurance protection, an active approach to risk management can help to reduce or even prevent a loss and the resultant disruption to the business.This in turn helps make the business attractive to insure and has a beneficial effect on premiums.
Our Insider Sponsor - Stennings offer general risk management advice and have access to specialist services that can undertake Health & Safety and Fire Risk Assessments, Business Continuity Planning, Fixed Wiring and Portable Appliance testing to give a few examples, together with training in a number of areas.Not only do these services improve risk management but in certain cases help businesses meet legal obligations.
To find out more please contact Stennings on 01303 864198 and ask to speak to either David Donald or Martin Bridges. October 19th, 2009
Hythe’s Future
Two major planning issues in Hythe are being discussed tomorrow by Shepway’s Development Control Committee – and Channel Chamber is speaking in support of both applications. As a business support organisation your Chamber firmly believes that Hythe will benefit from a new Sainsbury’s store as well as the refurbishment of the Hythe Imperial Hotel and relevant property development. Although these are hugely different, both offer Hythe the opportunity to attract more visitors and will encourage them to spend their money locally. More local jobs are also a vital ingredient for our local economy and hopefully, both developments may even stimulate other businesses to review their plans and think of Hythe as a place they want to relocate to.
The public gallery at the Civic Centre in Folkestone is most likely to be full of objectors to these applications, but if any Chamber members want to join us in support please ensure you arrive before 6.30pm to secure a seat.
Kent Property Market Report
The eighteenth edition of the Kent Property Market report has been published last Friday reviewing activity and major property deals throughout 2008-09. Encouragingly this report reveals that despite the economic situation,the Kent commercial property sector has continued a relatively healthy performance over the last year. The report also looks in detail at residential, tourism, retail and this year also the rural sector.The regeneration section features current and planned developments across Kent and Medway, focusing particularly on the growth areas of Kent - Thames Gateway Kent and Ashford. The report is available to view online via www.kentpropertymarket.co.uk.
Electronic VAT Returns and Payments from April 2010
For all businesses with an annual turnover exceeding £100,000 compulsory electronic filing of Vat returns and electronic payment of Vat begins on 1st April 2010.In addition all new businesses registering for VAT from 1st April 2010 will be required to file returns and pay electronically irrespective of their size.Unlike the introduction of online filing for PAYE returns, where the filing was optional and a financial incentive was paid to encourage online filing, the Vat change is compulsory and no incentive will be provided.
To register online on your own behalf you will first need to register with the Government Gateway. To start this process choose VAT Online from the green box on the HMRC homepage (www.hmrc.gov.uk) and then click on new users
Alcohol Awareness Week
This national campaign runs from 19 to 25 October and aims to encourage adults to think about how much they are drinking. Did you know that nearly one in three men and one in five women drink more than the NHS recommended unit guidelines for alcohol? Employers are being asked to get involved and to help promote this initiative amongst their staff and information is available inline at: http://www.alcohollearningcentre.org.uk/_library/AAW_stakeholder_pack.pdf
Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening
A Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening is being held on 6 November at the Ashford International Hotel organised by Chamber member – Spire Health Care (Spire St Saviour’s Hospital). Chamber members and their staff are welcome to attend and will receive a free consultation (normal cost £100). To book on this event please call 01303 233766.
Risk Management
Business insurance and risk management are closely related. The insurance is there to provide protection when the incident occurs and it works best when the claim is dealt with swiftly and efficiently.
However good your insurance protection, an active approach to risk management can help to reduce or even prevent a loss and the resultant disruption to the business.This in turn helps make the business attractive to insure and has a beneficial effect on premiums.
Our Insider Sponsor - Stennings offer general risk management advice and have access to specialist services that can undertake Health & Safety and Fire Risk Assessments, Business Continuity Planning, Fixed Wiring and Portable Appliance testing to give a few examples, together with training in a number of areas.Not only do these services improve risk management but in certain cases help businesses meet legal obligations.
To find out more please contact Stennings on 01303 864198 and ask to speak to either David Donald or Martin Bridges.
Friday, 30 October 2009
Friday, 24 July 2009
Your Business News Round UP
Free Office Space for Start-Ups and Charities
Chamber Members Basepoint has two very special offers for their Folkestone centre. Charities and other not-for-profit and social enterprises are being offered free office space with no deposit required for twelve months. New businesses just starting up or moving from home are being offered free office space for six months. Conditions Apply – please call Lorraine Grover on 01303 298298 or see www.basepoint.co.uk.
Tesco Expansion Plans
Plans for the considerable extension of Tesco Stores at Cheriton have been submitted and can be viewed on line at www.shepway.co.uk - use the planning reference Y09/0681/SH
College Merger
After careful deliberation there is a proposal to merge South Kent and West Kent Colleges. The LSC are seeking your views on the merger before the 9th September – the consultation document is available at www.lsc.goc.uk/regions/southEast/
110 Years
The Chamber will be celebrating its 110-year anniversary on 17th September 2009 at the Grand Hotel in Folkestone – the Grand is also celebrating its 110th birthday this year – so it seemed most fitting. We aim to attract at least 110 attendees at this special extended big breakfast! The event has limited exhibition opportunities available to members only – more details will be following in the next few weeks but please save the date- to find out more about exhibiting and get your name on the list – please call Sezen on 01303 270022 or email sezen.zeki@shepwaybc.co.uk
New tax service helps businesses manage cashflow through downturn
If you’re worried about finding the cash to pay your taxes, a new service from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) could bring welcome relief. The new Business Payment Support Service makes it easier for cash-strapped businesses to stay on top of their tax payments by spreading them over a period of time. It’s aimed at businesses and self-employed individuals who are facing temporary financial difficulties and are unable to pay their tax. Call HMRC’s Business Payment Support line now on 0845 302 1435. You’ll need the following information to hand when you call: your tax reference number, details of the taxes that you are worried about and when you expect to be able to pay the bill.
All Change Cabinet at Shepway
The Environmental Services portfolio has been discontinued and its functions split between other Cabinet Members. Cllr Alan North will step down from the Cabinet, but will retain the role of Lead Member on Recycling and Waste. Cllr David Monk is to add Parks and Open Spaces to his portfolio and will relinquish Property Maintenance, Asset Management and Commercial Property, which will be added to Cllr Bliss’ (the leader) portfolio. Recycling, Waste, Street Cleansing, Toilets and Beach Management have been transferred to Cllr Rory Love. Additionally, Cllr Anthony Dunning’s responsibilities as Lead Member will cease.
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
Date set for Lydd Airport Decision
After nearly 2 and half years after original plans were submitted, Shepway District Council have set a date to determine Lydd Airport's expansion plans.
SDC's full council meeting on Thursday, July 9 will decide the two applications currently submitted by LAA - one for a runway extension of 444m and the other for a new terminal building.
“I am confident that we have put forward a compelling case for development at Lydd. At a time when our economy is stagnating and unemployment rates are
soaring, both nationally and locally in Shepway and the surrounding areas, our planned investment must be good news for local communities.
What are your views - let us know on this survey page
Thursday, 28 May 2009
Online petition supporting Kent & British Food
We have received the following from Frazer Thompson (of the English Wines Group) and thought there might others of you who would also want to add your names to the No 10 online petition
"We passionately support Kent business and the need to support local products and services.
Sign our petition and you can not only give the Government an even bigger headache, but also support our County's fantastic Food and Drink businesses!
This isn't some Nationalist scheme advocating isolationism - just a way of ensuring that our food and drink culture starts to become embedded in our thinking and for our obsession with price to be tempered by our awareness of the economic, environmental and social benefits of local sourcing and our pride at the quality of our local produce. KCC have been fantastic supporters of this cause and we'd like that attitude to spread. It starts with HM Government... Sign up now please!
Click this link then respond to confirm as instructed.
Any help you can give to passing this message on would be appreciated
http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/British-produce/
"We passionately support Kent business and the need to support local products and services.
Sign our petition and you can not only give the Government an even bigger headache, but also support our County's fantastic Food and Drink businesses!
This isn't some Nationalist scheme advocating isolationism - just a way of ensuring that our food and drink culture starts to become embedded in our thinking and for our obsession with price to be tempered by our awareness of the economic, environmental and social benefits of local sourcing and our pride at the quality of our local produce. KCC have been fantastic supporters of this cause and we'd like that attitude to spread. It starts with HM Government... Sign up now please!
Click this link then respond to confirm as instructed.
Any help you can give to passing this message on would be appreciated
http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/British-produce/
Tuesday, 26 May 2009
Special Offer for Chamber Members
Chamber members Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway are offering their exclusive dining train again on Saturday 6th June and a few tickets still remain.
If you would like an evening out with a difference on one of the longest evenings of the year then please give our ticket hotline a call any day between 09.00 and 5.00 on 01797 363256.
Tickets normally cost £40 per person and include a welcome drink, a four course meal at Dungeness, the train ride in one of our first class coaches, which includes the return journey after dark, a particularly magical experience.
Chamber members get 10% off so tickets are only £36 each - a bargain - hope to see you there.
If you would like an evening out with a difference on one of the longest evenings of the year then please give our ticket hotline a call any day between 09.00 and 5.00 on 01797 363256.
Tickets normally cost £40 per person and include a welcome drink, a four course meal at Dungeness, the train ride in one of our first class coaches, which includes the return journey after dark, a particularly magical experience.
Chamber members get 10% off so tickets are only £36 each - a bargain - hope to see you there.
Thursday, 21 May 2009
Twitter -
FletchMcGull from Sagittarius and Jo Dodds from Counterpoint Networking and Caroline from the Chamber have just been videoed for a piece for the BBC about Twitter for Business Networking - you can see it here!
Monday, 18 May 2009
New Superstore for Hythe
Board members met today with planning consultants from Sainsbury to discuss their proposals for the Military Road - Hythe site bought earlier this year from Smith Medical. .
The board learned that 300 new jobs would be created by the re-development of this 34,000 sq ft shop, with 270 free car parking spaces. The design is more aesthetically pleasing than the existing buildings and we are confident that any design/parking/access issues can be resolved through consultations starting with the community this week.
The Local Household survey conducted for Sainsbury revealed that 63% of Hythe residents currently leave the town to do their main food shop - we believe that having a store such as Sainsbury in the town will help stem the flow of people, increase choice and encourage more people to shop on the high street. In recognition of Hythe's outstanding tourism offer we have encouraged Sainsbury to explore opportunities to boost tourism/social events in the town through the use of a Section 106 arrangement with an example given of a local town hopper bus service.
Too many times in the past Hythe have turned down or opposed opportunities that could have improved the town for the benefit of all. In the current economic environment we cannot afford to say No to these proposals, we need to work with Sainsbury's to get the best possible outcome for our community as a whole - including residents, young people looking for work and independent traders.
We would encourage local businesses and residents to pop along to Hythe town hall on Wednesday and Thursday of this week between 2pm and 8pm to learn more about the proposals.
The board learned that 300 new jobs would be created by the re-development of this 34,000 sq ft shop, with 270 free car parking spaces. The design is more aesthetically pleasing than the existing buildings and we are confident that any design/parking/access issues can be resolved through consultations starting with the community this week.
The Local Household survey conducted for Sainsbury revealed that 63% of Hythe residents currently leave the town to do their main food shop - we believe that having a store such as Sainsbury in the town will help stem the flow of people, increase choice and encourage more people to shop on the high street. In recognition of Hythe's outstanding tourism offer we have encouraged Sainsbury to explore opportunities to boost tourism/social events in the town through the use of a Section 106 arrangement with an example given of a local town hopper bus service.
Too many times in the past Hythe have turned down or opposed opportunities that could have improved the town for the benefit of all. In the current economic environment we cannot afford to say No to these proposals, we need to work with Sainsbury's to get the best possible outcome for our community as a whole - including residents, young people looking for work and independent traders.
We would encourage local businesses and residents to pop along to Hythe town hall on Wednesday and Thursday of this week between 2pm and 8pm to learn more about the proposals.
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