Hello Alison ,
Bath
Chamber news, information and events for GWE Business
West Chambers of Commerce members.
Keeping on the
pressure: The Chamber will once again be
represented at the vital Development Control Committee
meeting later this week which will decide the fate of
the £50 million Bath Transportation package, critically
important to the business
community.
Parking: The Chamber
Executive has considered the newly announced changes to
parking charges. They agreed that whilst any increases
were unwelcome, particularly during an economic
downturn, it was some consolation that the Chamber’s
views had been taken into account, especially in terms
of freezing charges for people staying for six hours or
longer – the vital group who support our retail and
tourism businesses.
Plane speaking:
A letter has been sent on behalf of the Chamber
in support of Bristol International Airport’s Planning
Application which will increase the size of the terminal
building and allow extra expansion. However, it was also
stressed that the surrounding road infrastructure and
public transport links to Bath should be
improved.
Shop till you drop:
Work is progressing well on the retail campaign which is
being orchestrated by Future Bath Plus’ City Centre
Management Partnership. Photographs of a sophisticated
model are to be superimposed onto a City skyline in a
bid to attract shoppers from across the region.
The creative approach will include adverts on buses,
taxis, regional newspapers and lifestyle
magazines.
Future for Bath:
Executive Director, Ian Bell, has been attending a
series of workshops gathering ideas about the nature of
future developments in Bath. It is becoming widely
acknowledged that there is a priority need in the City
for more modern office space. Contributions have also
been made into the creation of the Sustainable
Communities Strategy, which sets out some general
ambitions, for example encouraging growth in the
economy, particularly by attracting knowledge based
jobs. Another major element is the desire to improve
conditions for those pockets of the community who suffer
major disadvantage when it comes to employment, housing,
educational attainment and health.
Carbon
Challenge: The Chamber is taking a lead in
providing a coherent programme for businesses interested
in reducing their carbon emissions. Representatives from
the Bristol Green Capital Team are being invited to
explain how they have persuaded businesses to “take the
pledge” by which they agree to decrease their carbon
footprint, supported by helpful information and advice.
If you would like to get involved please e-mail
info@bathchamber.co.uk 
