- Welcome and Apologies
Attendees:
- Jane Armitage West Byfleet Physiotherapy Clinic
- Simon Preece Preece and Co Accountants
- Alan Fuller Fullworks
- Sue Taylor FDTS
- Gary Elson Learning to Succeed
- Jo Schwarzkopf Sweet Passion
Apologies:
Michael Lee-Brown, Neil Butcher, Noel Watson, Sheena Inwood,
Chris & John Morrison, Roland Nevett
- Minutes of Meeting – 12th July 2018
Matters Arising: None raised or discussed
- Working Together with Ward Councillors
Councillor Amanda Boote introduced herself and said that all 3 Byfleet, West Councillors are supportive of the WBBA.
- Membership and Marketing & Business Development
Agenda items 4 and 5 were discussed together
Discussion on venues for future meetings and topics to be included, one idea to promote the WBBA would be to have Lapel / Pin Badges, the current WBBA logo also could do with a refresh and update. The group discussed various print outlets for flyers and window stickers to promote business in WB. We would like to see the empty shop fronts uplifted as has been done by Curchods in covering the whole windows with murals so it doesn’t look so drab.
The message is Shop Local and West Byfleet is Open for Business!
Some good ideas for future meetings and medium to long term development strategy may be found by contacting the Federation for Small Businesses.
The Residents Association article had been drafted and will appear in the next edition of the Resident Magazine that goes out to 2000+ homes in the 3 Villages area.
Jane A gave an update on her forthcoming meeting with Chris Norrington and the WBC Business Liaison team. An update was given on the new shops and businesses so despite the Sheer Development delay there are very encouraging signs for the future.
- As Above
- Website
Alan gave an update on our website development, the group discussed various ideas for improvements but we need to get more of a ‘buy in’ from our members. Allan was thanked for doing a great job and for giving us a very professional looking site.
- Planning Issues
Roland was unable to attend the meeting as he was abroad so Gary E gave an update on current planning issues affecting the commercial centre of West Byfleet.
No movement on Sheer House, the developers Altitude are looking for a commercial partner to build out the residential element of the new Sheer House complex. Outline planning permission has been given but as yet no formal and detailed planning application has been made.
The application to build a small electricity generating power plant (33 engines) adjacent to the Camphill Road Industrial site has been withdrawn; this follows considerable pressure and concern from residents and action groups, Byfleet United Charities who own the site had withdrawn their offer to sell it on.
- Treasurers Report
As John Morrison was unable to attend no detailed report was discussed.
- Parking
The Woking Parking Review document was now out for consultation; only minor changes to residential roads in West Byfleet are included so no effect on business and shoppers. It is unlikely at this time that there will be any changes to the shopper or business parking regime in West Byfleet until the Sheer House redevelopment program is agreed and underway.
- Social / Networking Events
The last social event held was at Nandinis Indian Restaurant and was enjoyed by all who attended. This could be a way in the future of encouraging more local business to join and attend meetings although no new event has been planned discussion took place around the next venue.( No update as neither Noel or Michael were present).
- Christmas Planning – WB Saturday
Much discussion around Christmas lighting and decoration took place, Jane and Gary are to look at options and approach various groups to see what funding can be found. Neil B had found a choir but we need to set a date for the WB Saturday and get a plan together. Further updates to follow at the next meeting.
- Date Venue of Next Meeting
The next meeting of the WBBA will be held at:
West Byfleet Social Club on Thursday 11th October @ 5.30pm for drinks beforehand, meeting to start at 6.00pm.
The meeting concluded and Jo from Sweet Passion was thanked for her excellent hosting.