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ChamberVoice
Summer 2016
Adam Marshall: “Suffolk
Chamber - a business of
purpose”
– page 7
Exclusive interview with Jo Churchill MP l Suffolk
Chamber expands its international trade offer l Chamber
member wins prestigious contract l
Momentum builds over Suffolk Chamber’s A14 campaign
CEO welcome
Change is a constant in life.
This seems particularly relevant in today’s
President’s address
I always enjoy
reading Chamber
Voice, but this
issue in particular
fast-paced world, where disruption to fills me with a
well-laid business plans, strategies and huge sense of
ambitions is a given. pride.
To properly prepare for change a business Pride as to the
needs good intelligence to consider all the ceaseless
possible outcomes and options open to it. dynamism and
I believe that Suffolk Chamber of Commerce can-do spirit of
is businesses’ key ally in this regard. We have the Suffolk
the ability to call on the advice and ideas of business
others to help you keep ahead of major community, and
changes. especially our five
Our three EU debates (page 3) gave town chambers who really are the sure
speakers from both Business in Britain East foundations upon which the Suffolk Chamber
of England and Britain Stronger in Europe draws its strength.
the chance to put their case and the nearly Whether it be campaigning to improve vital local
150 businesspeople who attended the attendance at our AGM of acting director road networks, or being a consistently practical
opportunity to get straight to the facts. general of the British Chambers of and supportive voice within various town centre
Talking of change: I’m delighted to report that Commerce, Dr. Adam Marshall (page 7). improvement partnerships, my colleagues in Bury
our president, Sarah Howard MBE, has joined Adam’s keynote speech referred on many St Edmunds, Greater Ipswich, Haverhill & District,
the British Chamber of Commerce board occasions to just how well regarded your Lowestoft & Waveney and Newmarket & District
and will be chairing the UK Accreditation Chamber is across our network! Chambers are the very real voice of business in
board (page 5). This reflects her their areas.
extraordinary commitment to our John Dugmore I’m also proud to live in a county where vision
organisation. Chief Executive and hard work are rewarded by great success
Further evidence of that was provided by the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce – most particularly in the imminent creation of
the University of Suffolk (page 3), which will both
boost our county’s skills base and the local
economy as a whole.
Contents I’m certainly proud to be able to work with some
of the most inspirational people around, including
Jo Churchill MP, whom we interview on pages 10
3 UCS university status
12 Case for A12 upgrade
made
and 11, about her pro-business credentials and
priorities for the future success of Suffolk PLC.
And finally I’m proud to be part of Suffolk
4 £1m investment in training Chamber of Commerce which is offering more
support than ever before to its members and the
5 Our role in contract win
13 A14 campaign gathers pace wider business community (pages 5, 6, 7 and 12).
I hope you enjoy this Chamber Voice as much as
I have!
6 Chamber offers more for Sarah Howard MBE
start-ups 14-15 New members President
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce
7 ‘Blue flag’ for business
advisors
16-17 On your doorstep SUFFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
18 A room with a view
South Kiln, Felaw Maltings
42 Felaw Street, Ipswich IP2 8SQ
8 Suffolk Show brunch Tel: 01473 680600
Fax: 01473 603888
19 Growth for IT recruiter
Email: info@suffolkchamber.co.uk
9 Chamber AGM Web: www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Advertising: Alicia Garrad email: alicia.garrad@
10 -11 JoTheChurchill
interview:
MP 20 New look for Chamber archant.co.uk
Design: Features Design, Archant
Printed by: Stephens & George
Chamber Patrons
2 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600
EU Referendum 2016: businesses get
chance to hear some straight-talking
On June 23 the UK electorate questions and then vote again
voted to leave the European once each debate had concluded.
Union. The outcome of the ballot Each of the debates resulted in
is likely to have a profound different voting swings with the
long-term influence on the percentages to leave, remain or
direction in which the UK economy undecided (see table).
as a whole will take. “Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, in all about giving its members and
line with the British Chambers of the indeed the wider business
Commerce, maintained a strictly
community a voice and I felt we
neutral stance, reflecting the
diversity of views held by our fulfilled our promise during all three
members on this important of these debates,” explained Suffolk
topic. Chamber chief executive, John
But, in keeping with the Dugmore.
Chamber’s focus on supporting its “The businesses that attended
members and the wider business were given a chance to listen to
community in Suffolk, we were The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce and the EADT EU referendum the pros and cons of both sides of
keen to ensure that local firms debate at UCS in Ipswich. L-R: Ben Gummer MP and Terry Baxter and the debate and ask searching and
were able to hear clear and John May (chair - East of England Business for Britain). well-informed questions of the
coherent arguments from both speakers. I hope in this way we
sides of the debate, in order to Bury: were able to contribute to a more
allow them to make up their own Leave (%) Remain (%) Undecided (%) informed and business-centred
minds on the issue based on facts 1st vote 17 70 13 element during the campaigning
and not rhetoric. 2nd vote 37 48 15 period.”
Working with our partners the Looking ahead, John added:
East Anglian Daily Times and Ipswich: “Since the result came in, your
Parker Communications, we Leave (%) Remain (%) Undecided (%) Chamber has been active in
hosted three debates – one each in 1st vote 44 44 12 representing its members’
Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich and 2nd vote 35 53 12
Lowestoft - with different speakers views as to how we manage the
from both Business in Britain East process of leaving the EU.
Lowestoft: “Businesses want to see a detailed
of England and Britain Stronger in Leave (%) Remain (%) Undecided (%)
Europe, the two respective plan to support the economy
1st vote 32 30 38
business-focussed campaigning during the coming transition period
2nd vote 43 49 8
groups. - as confidence, investment, hiring
Nearly 150 businesses attended vote ‘electronically’ as to whether fully make up their mind both and growth would all be deeply
this trio of meetings and each they wanted to leave the EU, before they had heard the speakers affected by a prolonged period of
was invited to anonymously remain in the EU or had yet to and had a chance to ask uncertainty.”
New University of Suffolk “good news for business”
Leading representatives of Suffolk Chamber An independent University of Suffolk will be
of Commerce have welcomed the news that able to award its own degrees, shape its
University Campus Suffolk (UCS) has been degree programme and further boost student
awarded independent status and will numbers. The university eventually expects
become the University of Suffolk later in the to boost the numbers studying with it by 50%
summer. and it is anticipated that by 2020, the
Founded in 2007, UCS was a unique University of Suffolk could boost Suffolk’s
collaboration between the universities of East economy by £25 to £30million per year.
Anglia and Essex, and a range of other Dave Muller, chair of Greater Ipswich
partners, to establish a higher institution in Chamber of Commerce, part of the Suffolk
Suffolk. Until news of its independence was Chamber, added his congratulations:: “As an
confirmed, Suffolk was one of just four educationalist with a strong commitment to
counties in England that did not have its own Ipswich and Suffolk, I was thrilled to hear the
independent university. Sarah Howard being interviewed outside UCS news that UCS had achieved its
Sarah Howard MBE, president of Suffolk independence.”
Chamber of Commerce, was clear as to what by both securing new business-oriented One of Suffolk Chamber’s four strategic
this achievement means for the business research funding and by deepening its priorities is to contribute to improving the
community: “Simply put: UCS is already good collaboration with Suffolk Chamber of skills and aptitudes of the county’s workforce.
news for business. Commerce and the wider business In addition to its support for UCS, the
“Over its first eight years, it has been a community. Chamber delivers a number of other
game-changer in increasing the local supply “Independence will ensure that the new initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between
and retention of skilled and talented young University of Suffolk can make an even education and work, including the Employer
people. It has also strengthened the bond greater contribution to a more prosperous Training Incentive Pilot (see page 4) and the
between the worlds of education and work Suffolk PLC.” Young Chamber project (see page 6).
www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 3
Suffolk training funder
leverages £1m investment
A
n innovative scheme that pays towards
the costs of employee training has paid
out its 1,000th grant to local businesses,
and reached £1m worth of additional
investment in training local employees.
The Employer Training Incentive Pilot (ETIP),
launched just over a year ago as part of the
Greater Ipswich City Deal, is a joint venture
between Norfolk and Suffolk Chambers of
Commerce, and is managed by Suffolk County
Council. Its remit is to help small and medium-
sized businesses across the counties train
employees aged 19 years and upwards on
accredited courses such as NVQs, and
non-accredited training.
Mick Biegel OBE, ETIP’s manager at Suffolk
Chamber of Commerce said: “Most local
businesses want to invest in skills and aptitudes
as a way of both improving their competitive
edge and retaining good staff. ETIP offers them
either 25% or 30% of the costs involved to do
this.
“We are all about keeping the hassle factor to a
Mick Biegel of ETIP with David Dodd of Interex, trainer Alison Darrington and the course
minimum, so the grant application form is short
attendees.
and to the point. We will make a decision about
any application within two working days and we exporter of high performance engineering now exceeded £250,000 – resulting in £1m
will pay the grant to the business as soon as the automotive and motorsport parts based in extra being spent on training up the Suffolk
training has been completed.” Needham Market. Interex contracted workforce.
Mick added: “We will consider virtually any Darrington Training to deliver a negotiation and Paul Winter, chief executive of Ipswich Building
non-mandatory training course, from non- communication skills course to seven of their Society and chair of the Greater Ipswich City
accredited training to training between levels sales team, with £362.50 of the £1,450 costs Deal Board said: “It is great to see that the
one to four, as long as it can be shown to being provided by ETIP. funding secured for the local area through the
benefit the business applying for the grant. David Dodd, Interex’s managing director said: Greater Ipswich City Deal is continuing to have
“Furthermore, we let the employer choose “This course was critical for us. The ETIP grant such a positive impact on both local businesses
which trainer to use from an extensive UK list.” meant we could train more people.” and their employees through the Employer
The 1,000th grant was awarded to Interex, an The total value of grants awarded by ETIP has Training Incentive Pilot.”
Suffolk Chamber ups its support to exporters
In response to the Government’s Exporting is need objective and supportive advice and
Great campaign, aimed at increasing the intelligence, and based on our British
amount of goods and services British firms Chamber of Commerce-accredited
export abroad, Suffolk Chamber of international services, this is a role we are
Commerce is upping its package of support well-suited to fulfil.”
and advice to help local existing and potential Once a company has received the results of
exporters. its assessment, Suffolk Chamber International
Suffolk Chamber International has launched a can offer a half-day follow-up session to
free web-based export readiness assessment review the results and advise a structure to
tool and is offering expert readiness follow-up help them develop their export strategy.
sessions for companies needing more detailed use: “If you are new to international trade this “These intensive sessions will offer the
guidance. tool is a great way of focusing your efforts on opportunity for us to set the co-ordinates for
The online tool provides a quick, easy-to- the areas of your business that really need it.” a business to accurately plan its entry into a
understand, basic assessment as to how well Jim Fanshawe, Suffolk Chamber International’s new market on the basis of comprehensive
prepared a company is in exporting its goods manager explained: “Suffolk is particularly knowledge and preparation,” added Jim
and services. It also gives prompts for some of strong in some of the economy’s most Fanshawe.
the issues businesses need to consider as they dynamic market sectors, and with thousands Each session costs £250 to Suffolk Chamber
start to plan their entry into overseas markets. of businesses offering innovative goods and of Commerce members (£350 to non-
Despite being an experienced exporter, David services, this county is well-placed to lead our members). To find out more go to: www.
Jackson, sales director of Ipswich-based MGC, much-needed export boom. suffolkchamber.co.uk and go to the
used the assessment tool and still found it of “However, to do exporting well, companies International Trade section
4 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600
Suffolk Chamber duo selected for seats at top table
Reflecting the Suffolk Chamber of interests of the wealth generators across the
Commerce’s growing national standing within land.”
the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Sarah Howard MBE explained her reaction to
network, two of the most experienced the news: “As the largest non-metropolitan
members of its team have been elected to chamber in the country that also consistently
senior positions within the parent posts some of the best member retention
organisation. rates and which was selected as 2014
Suffolk Chamber president, Sarah Howard Chamber Campaign of the Year, I hope to
MBE, is joining the BCC’s board and becomes show how ‘the Suffolk way’ can benefit other
chair of the UK Accreditation Board. Suffolk chambers in the network.”
Chamber’s chief executive John Dugmore The UK Accreditation Board is the ‘kite
also joins the UK Accreditation Board. mark’ of best practice and standards both for
“Sarah’s achievement is utterly well-deserved. existing affiliated chambers and for those
From her involvement in our town Chamber John Dugmore and Sarah Howard MBE at the wishing to join the British Chambers of
in Haverhill to her current leadership role in Archant Suffolk Show Lunch 2016 Commerce.
the Suffolk Chamber, she has been an Sarah added: “I think our impressive track
effective, loyal and determined advocate for and her own record of business success have record in maximising our offer and
the local business community,” explained been recognised by others across the country relationships with our members gives us
John Dugmore. and I’m sure that she will lend her experience some useful insights which we can now more
“It’s great that these inspirational qualities and knowledge to further promoting the effectively share with others.”
Suffolk Chamber plays role
in exciting contract win
F
amily-owned, multi award-winning Stoke by
Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa has entered into
an exciting new venture in association with
the US Airbase at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk,
having achieved the accolade of being the first
private company to secure a contract to run a
restaurant on the base.
The launch of the new Medana Mediterranean
Kitchen restaurant took place on June 8, building
on the excellent reputation created at its two
AA Rosette Lakes Restaurant at Stoke by
Nayland Hotel.
The venue will be serving top quality northern
Mediterranean style cuisine for lunch and dinner,
and will be accessible to up to 16,000 staff and
residents at both the RAF Lakenheath and RAF
Mildenhall bases.
All Suffolk Chamber members in the catering
sector were alerted to the tendering process by
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce’s B2B platform.
Chief executive John Dugmore, who holds an The launch of Medana Mediterranean Kitchen. Photo: USAF/SSGT EMERSON NUNEZ
honorary position at the base, explained the
Chamber’s reaction to this news and its role: Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa, said: “We really the excellent team from Stoke by Nayland
“This is a great ‘win’ for a fantastic local appreciated the initial introduction to this Hotel, Golf & Spa.”
company. We are absolutely delighted for them. opportunity by Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Deputy director of the 48th Force Support
“Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is the voice and we were delighted to win the contract in Squadron, Debbie Southee, said: “Out of all the
and the key supporter of the county’s the face of some very strong competition. American Air Force, Army and Navy bases in
businesses, but especially the 1,400-plus “We are looking forward to working with the Europe that I have visited, the food at Medana is
organisations who make up our membership. team at RAF Lakenheath and are pleased that by far the best I have tasted. There is nowhere
One of the benefits of being a Chamber the excellent menu, which has been instigated else offering this extensive choice of dishes or
member is that we are able to effectively use and prepared by our skilful executive head chef, superior quality of ingredients.”
our market intelligence to alert them, as in this Alan Paton, and enthusiastic and professional Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is actively
case, to such opportunities. team from Stoke by Nayland, has been so well supporting other local supply chains with the
“Obviously, Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa received on the base.” aim of maximising the contracts won by
won this contract entirely on their own merits, 48th Force support commander, Major Sean county-based companies. This includes working
but we are delighted to have been a facilitator Brazel, said: “The Medana Restaurant offers our with EDF Energy in building the Sizewell C
in getting them and our colleagues at RAF airmen a unique dining experience and gives the supply chain database (www.
Lakenheath together in the first place.” 48th Fighter Wing an opportunity to enjoy the sizewellcsupplychain.co.uk/) so that it includes as
Susanna Rendall, managing director of Stoke by very best in Mediterranean cuisine prepared by many local firms as possible.
www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 5
Young Chamber: key careers
put under the spotlight
“T
his was a practical and students told us they specifically wanted
interactive way to bridge the more information on opportunities in the
gap between school and work sports, construction, gaming, NHS and
that was both exciting and honest.” police sectors.
Ashleigh Seymour-Rutherford, assistant to “Within a month of this, Young Chamber
the chief executive and the lead for Suffolk had used its extensive contacts in the
Chamber’s Young Chamber project was business community to bring together
commenting at the end of a recent leading local industry experts to reveal
speaker event at Copleston High School in more about the opportunities available in
Ipswich which saw hundreds of pupils seize their organisations and beyond.”
the chance to learn about the real world The event put a spotlight on careers in
of work – in sectors they themselves had each of the sectors in question with
said they most wanted to hear about. presentations from Terry Baxter (pictured)
Young Chamber is an initiative run by the of Inspire Suffolk on sports, Peter Brady of
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce and has Orbital Media about the gaming industry,
been working with Copleston High School Nick Hulme, chief executive of Ipswich
since 2015 as a way for the school to tap Hospital NHS Trust, Sam Mason about the
into the knowledge, skills and experiences police and James Wilson, managing
that local businesses can provide students director of RG Carter on the construction
for them to succeed when they leave industry.
full-time education and start work. “Information is power and this is what this
Shaun Common, Copleston High School’s event and indeed Young Chamber as a
head teacher, said: “This partnership whole is all about: empowering Suffolk’s
between the school, Young Chamber and students to make the right decisions for
the wider business community is already them as to their future careers and to
delivering real benefits for us. ensure the wider prosperity of the whole
“Young Chamber organised a great ‘Your of Suffolk,” added Ashleigh Seymour- Terry Baxter speaking at the Young Chamber event at
Futures’ careers fair in March, at which the Rutherford. Copleston High School. Photo: CONTRIBUTED
Chamber offers more for start-ups
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has enhanced
its membership offer for new or early stage
businesses, reflecting some of the particular
challenges start-ups face.
All Chamber members enjoy a range of
benefits, including free or discounted
networking opportunities, free access to legal
advice, a business-to-business promotional
platform via the Chamber website and a direct
say in the many campaigns run by the
organisation.
Now any businesses that have been trading
for two years or less will secure additional
benefits when they join up.
These are:
n Three year’s free business banking with
Lloyds Bank (subject to approval)
n One year’s free health and safety advice Photo: THINKSTOCK
n One year’s free legal expenses insurance
important but not “core to the business’ More than 1,400 Suffolk businesses are
Ashleigh Seymour-Rutherford, assistant to the matters - allowing entrepreneurs to focus on currently members of the Suffolk Chamber of
chief executive at Suffolk Chamber of building up their companies.” Commerce, making it the seventh largest
Commerce explains that: “Setting up a new The costs of joining the Suffolk Chamber of chamber in the country.
business can be one of the most thrilling and Commerce vary according to the number of
challenging experiences in the world. The aim staff employed by a company, starting from as For further information about joining
of this enhanced member package is to help little as £3.50 per week (plus a first year Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, please
start-ups with some of the worry about joining fee of £35). contact nicci@suffolkchamber.co.uk
6 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600
‘Blue flag’ for Suffolk and Norfolk business advisers
The New Anglia Growth Hub, always providing the best
managed by Suffolk Chamber of approach to advising Suffolk
Commerce on behalf of New businesses.”
Anglia Local Enterprise Across both Suffolk and Norfolk,
Partnership, has become the first, more than 1,200 businesses have
and to date the only, organisation taken advantage of more than 12
in the country to have secured a hours each of free professional
coveted business adviser advice and thanks to the Growth
accreditation – the equivalent of a Hub’s advisers nearly £13m in
blue flag in this sector. grants has been successfully
The Level 7 Diploma in secured.
Professional Business and Charlie Dalton, managing director
Enterprise Support is the of Thurston-based Smart Garden
equivalent of a Master’s degree on Offices, who has used the advisory
the qualification and credit services of the New Anglia
framework scale. It means Growth Hub said: “The support
business owners in the county we received was invaluable and
can feel safe in the knowledge the Growth Hub has provided an
The New Anglia Growth Hub team of advisers with their SFEDI objective view throughout and
that the support they are receiving
Level 7 certificates. pointed towards sources of
has been rigorously examined
and is of the highest quality business support services and is explained how the fact that every support we were previously
available. the exemplar standard for the single one of his business advisers unaware of.”
The award is governed by the Department for Business, had achieved Level 7: “Was clear A free appointment can be
Small Firms Enterprise Innovation and Skills. proof not only of their nine booked by calling 0300 333
Development Initiative (SFEDI), John Stenhouse, who fronts the months of study and dedication, 6536 or email: growthhub@
which sets the standard for New Anglia Growth Hub, but their total commitment to newanglia.co.uk
Acting director general
praises Suffolk Chamber
“J ust as Suffolk Chamber is the voice of
business in this county, so the British
Chambers of Commerce is our voice
nationally. We’re especially delighted, therefore,
to be able to welcome Dr Adam Marshall,
acting director general of the British Chambers
of Commerce, to our AGM as our keynote
speaker.”
John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk
Chamber of Commerce, was speaking at the
organisation’s 132nd annual general meeting on
June 21st at Wherstead Park.
Dr Marshall outlined how the British Chambers
of Commerce (BCC) is currently influencing
policymakers across every part of Government
to ensure that Britain is as business-friendly as
possible.
In addition, with the EU Referendum date fast
approaching, he repeated his recent concerns John Dugmore addresses the Suffolk Chamber AGM. Photo: David Garrad
about both the impact on business sentiment
caused by the vote and frustrations with how the region for well over a century. We strive to 12 months; increasing our turnover by 25%,
the Government was neglecting key business maintain the highest of standards, reflecting the maintaining our position as the country’s largest
decisions because of the Referendum. quality of businesses that we represent, and non-metropolitan chamber and being at the
Dr Marshall said: “There’s a huge amount of Suffolk Chamber’s success is borne out in its forefront of a series of initiatives, ranging from
frustration from businesses that critical decisions longevity and strength of membership. our No More A14 Delays in Suffolk to
including airport expansion and major road, rail “Suffolk Chamber is truly a business of supporting the business improvement districts in
and digital infrastructure projects have been purpose.” Ipswich and Lowestoft and launching our
forgotten in the melee around the EU John Dugmore added: “Suffolk Chamber is a enhanced international trade offer.”
Referendum.” proud and active member of the British Suffolk Chamber continues to deliver its
Ahead of the AGM, Adam Marshall praised Chambers of Commerce, as well as being a business plan by further improving how it retains
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce: “Like most truly grassroots organisation locally through five existing members, recruits new ones and builds
chambers of commerce, Suffolk Chamber has key towns in the county. its reputation among the whole of Suffolk’s
championed and supported businesses across “Looking back at 2015 we have had an excellent growing business community.
www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 7
Suffolk Chamber and New Anglia Growth
Hub Business Brunch at the Suffolk Show
Trinity Park, Ipswich Photos: David Garrad
Left, David
Henley and
Tim Passmore,
right, Dr Peter
Funnell,
Sharon
Goddard,
Chris Squires.
Dayle Bayliss and Lina Hogg. John Stenhouse and Dan Poulter MP. Simon Hazelgrove and Alicia Garrad.
Michelle Wootton, Sarah Howard MBE and John Stenhouse. Geoff Rivers, Deborah Cadman OBE, Richard Lister and Therese Coffey MP.
Chris Abbott and Amanda Ankin. Mark Cordell and Carol Cordell. Matthew Darroch-Thompson and Matt Moss.
8 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce
Annual General Meeting
Wherstead Park, Ipswich Photos: David Garrad
Left, Dave
Moran, Nicci
Dunning and
Martin
Robinson,
Right, Dr
Adam
Marshall,
Sarah Howard
MBE and John
Dugmore
Paul Copsey and Ashleigh
David Redhead and Roderick Sutherland. Clare Whight, Adrian Sage and Leanne Carhart. Seymour-Rutherford.
Michelle Gardner, John Dugmore and Alicia Garrad. Daniel Poitras and David Vernay. Ashley Vigor and Mike Ashby.
Tom McGarry, Graham Abbey, Amanda Ankin Carole Burman, Patrice Love and Mick Biegel OBE, Paul Copsey and
and Mark Parker. Michelle Pollard. Darren Newman.
www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 9
The Chamber Voice inte
In the first of a series
where Suffolk Chamber
of Commerce’s chief
executive quizzes some
of the county’s most
influential people, John
Dugmore meets up
with Jo Churchill, MP for
Bury St. Edmunds.
“I
am a collaborator and a pragmatist.
Therefore, I believe you have to be
talking to those that you are trying to
influence.”
Wise words from Jo Churchill MP, who for the
last year has been trying to influence everyone
from individual ministers to the likes of
Highways England on behalf of her constituents.
And when she speaks of ‘constituents’, it is clear
that the MP for Bury St Edmunds includes
businesses in that definition. With a career
spanning over 30 years – which includes running
her own contracting company specialising in
heritage and access work – Jo has an intuitive
understanding of what makes business work and
what gets in its way in creating wealth.
“There is too much rule making and regulation
and many of the rules are sclerotic. That said
business needs to engage more with the public
sector, although that is a problem for SMEs due
to their limited spare time and capacity. I would
like to see more collaboration and innovation
between businesses, local enterprise
partnerships and local authorities to bring new
and diverse ideas to the table. Suffolk is
brilliantly placed to deliver to and for the UK,
“
although I am not sure we always get that
message across successfully.”
So, aside from the need for a more
collaborative culture here in Suffolk, Suffolk’s core
what is the county like as a place to
do business? strengths – and not
“It is excellent. In my view, it could just those in Bury - across
be one of the true growth areas in its length and breadth and
the country and my constituency
with its 20 miles of the A14 and its within every type of
rail connectivity potentially being at business sector is a real
the centre of it all!” she adds, laughing can-do attitude.
at her own bravado. hard, pay their a Whitehall level has prompted Jo into the role
“Suffolk’s core strengths – and not just taxes and look after of a business relationship counsellor where she
those in Bury - across its length and their staff, but they want has raised many questions and issues from the
breadth and within every type of business to feel in return that the floor of the House on behalf of her business
sector is a real can-do attitude. I have been so system is fair and they are able to community. But her focus on collaboration and
impressed with the diversity of our economy, feel supported as they grow whatever trade talking through challenges has meant she’s
from the smallest micro business making garden area they trade in. Business is diverse and one frequently gone further than this.
offices through to a medium business supplying size doesn’t fit all, and both businesses “In my first year in Parliament, I have got our
equipment to hospitals and schools and onto themselves and Government would do well to chief executives in front of secretaries of state
large firms such as Century Logistics, Muntons remember that.” – including Sajid Javid – and ministers because I
and Sealey. Her awareness of the needs and challenges of feel it is important that they see the real world
“I get the sense that business owners here work local businesses not always being understood at as it actually is!”
10 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600erview: Jo Churchill MP
“
I have taken on
the mantle to fight
for a better A14 both
Jo Churchill has warm
words for Suffolk
Chamber of
Commerce
recognising its value
for my own constituents both to its
membership and
but also for the broader the county’s business
constituency community more
of Suffolk. broadly.
“I believe that one of
the vital elements that the
Chamber can perform is
acting as a conduit between
Government local and national, and business.
Having worked in a small business environment
often one’s head is looking at the problems in
front of you and you rarely get the chance to
take on big issues with enough time and
persistence to achieve success, the Chamber fills
this gap.”
And how does she view the Chamber’s lobbying
efforts?
“Your No More A14 Delays in Suffolk campaign
is essential to making the Government
understand why we need the connectivity. From
the country’s busiest container port at
Felixstowe, one of the busiest in Europe, the
And that means unfailingly bringing to their “On the skills front, I hear of employers’ A14 is the main artery for distributing the goods
attention the challenges facing local businesses frustrations at every single business I visit. I am that flow in and out. I have taken on the mantle
and lobbying to find solutions to them. keen that we should become more self- to fight for a better A14 both for my own
“I believe we are particularly challenged by sufficient, particularly in areas such as health, constituents but also for the broader
both skills and infrastructure. I have spoken construction and technology.” constituency of Suffolk. I am dismayed how little
to the roads and rail ministers on several “I’m pushing to improve the quality of education Suffolk’s roads seem to feature in Highways
occasions as I have the Secretary of State in for all our children. In my constituency there is England’s plans.”
charge of broadband. My particular bugbear is the excellent West Suffolk College that has a But there can be no doubt that Jo Churchill will
that we are a net contributor to the Treasury can-do attitude in reaching out to understand be one of the key voices alongside that of the
and if we are given the support we deserve the skills needs of business it has to fulfil. And of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in trying to
we could truly show what this county can course, a more skilled workforce is the key to persuade a change of heart on both this and
deliver!” driving up wages!” other business-critical issues.
www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 11Become part of the
nuclear supply chain
‘gang’ in Suffolk
One of the roles of Suffolk Chamber of
Commerce is to ensure that its members
are in the best position possible to take
advantage of major capital projects.
John Dugmore, Chamber chief executive,
said: “With Sizewell B located on the
Suffolk coast and the possibility of a third
station being given the go-ahead at some
point in the future, the nuclear industry is
an important one for local businesses. Suffolk Saxons head coach Anthony Clarke (left) and Warren Smyth. Picture: Contributed
Eighty per cent of all opportunities in the
Businesses launch
nuclear industry are for non-nuclear
services. That is why we are actively
involved in promoting such opportunities
to our members.”
Suffolk Chamber runs the Sizewell C
badminton team
supply chain website (www.
sizewellcsupplychain.co.uk) where
companies can register their interest in
providing goods and services both during
outage periods for Sizewell B and for the
prospective Sizewell C site.
Sizewell operator, EDF Energy is
T
encouraging contractors to use the site wo members of Suffolk Chamber of Saxons’ new head coach, Anthony Clark and
to identify companies who will be able to Commerce came together last month to our first two signings, Andy Ellis and Sarah
help them meet their objectives in a help launch the county’s first professional Walker. Anthony is one of badminton’s most
consistent and reliable fashion. badminton team. highly regarded players and a true champion.
In addition, Suffolk Chamber is also Delivered by Abbeycroft Leisure, Suffolk Saxons We are excited to take part in the National
encouraging its members to sign up to was launched in June at an event hosted by Badminton League and put Suffolk on the map
become Fit For Nuclear (F4N). This is a Suffolk New College, a Suffolk Chamber patron. for this increasingly popular sport.”
unique service to help UK manufacturing The new coach and initial players were Abbeycroft chair and Suffolk Chamber of
companies get ready to bid for work in announced at this event in preparation for the Commerce president, Sarah Howard MBE, said:
the civil nuclear supply chain. team to start competing in the National “The launch of the county’s first professional
It provides a benchmark against the Badminton League this coming season. badminton team means yet another jigsaw piece
standards demanded by the industry’s top Warren Smyth, chief executive of Abbeycroft in the emerging Suffolk PLC picture has been
tiers and drives business improvements Leisure and franchise director of Suffolk Saxons, put in place. This shows that this county can
through a tailored action plan.The added: “We are proud to announce Suffolk compete with the best in virtually any context.”
process takes about six months to
complete.
Government receives outline
F4N covers the core areas of high
precision mechanical engineering and
companies which can supply control and
business case for A12 upgrade
instrumentation, electricals and other
manufactured components for nuclear
plant commissioning.
F4N is designed for businesses with 10 or
more employees or with a turnover of The outline business case to improve the A12 The outline business case provides evidence of
£1.6m and upwards, as the principles of between Ipswich and Lowestoft has been the economic benefits available should the A12
the programme are more difficult to received by the Government – prompting a be upgraded to include additional dualling.
apply to microenterprises. visit by the Transport Minister. Suffolk Chamber of Commerce was invited by
Businesses interested in applying should Robert Goodwill MP came to Suffolk at the the councils to lead in canvassing local business
submit their details through the F4N invitation of Suffolk County and Suffolk Coastal opinions through a series of consultation events
online tool (f4n.namrc.co.uk). An District Councils. With the assistance of in order to provide evidence within this outline
assessor will then contact them and will Therese Coffey MP, he inspected the A12 case.
assist in completing an initial capability around the Suffolk Energy Gateway and met Campaigners are now waiting to hear whether
questionnaire. This will enable the with a range of local organisations including the Government wishes to proceed with a
assessor to understand how best to Suffolk County Council, New Anglia Local more detailed business case before an
support each applicant. Enterprise Partnership and Suffolk Chamber of application can be made to the Local Majors
Commerce. Fund, an initiative announced at the last Budget.
12 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600Suffolk Business
Women chair
praises predecessor
Peter Owen and Paul Copsey.
Suffolk Chamber
benefits mean
G
inny Idehen, Suffolk
Mind’s Quay Place
manager, has recently
cheaper energy
been elected as the new chair Following the launch of Suffolk Chamber
of Suffolk Business Women Utilities in February, a number of
(SBW), the market leading companies are already looking at taking
organisation in the county and advantage of this member benefit by
part of Suffolk Chamber of working with an independent specialist to
Commerce. identify the best energy solutions for
Ginny replaces Lina Hogg, them based on their current usage.
co-founder and director of Felixstowe-based cost management
Picasso HR, who has stepped specialists Auditel, a Suffolk Chamber
down after nearly six years in member, has discussed with these clients
the role. During Lina’s a range of supply contract options and
stewardship SBW grew from 49 has helped them by handling the transfer
members to over 1,400. Lina process - at no cost to the members
was also instrumental in themselves.
incorporating SBW into Suffolk One such member, James Aldridge
Ginny Idehen, Lina Hogg and Amanda Ankin.
Chamber of Commerce which, Chartered Surveyors based in Nacton,
as the leading voice of the Lowestoft and Colchester, has directly
business community in the through its regular networking has been built up during Lina’s
events with inspirational leadership. benefitted from a thorough review and
county, has been at the tender of its energy spends by Paul
forefront of promoting and business speakers, the informal “In many respects, the successes
contacts it promotes and its of SBW offers a template for Copsey from Auditel. Paul identified
supporting women in business. savings of 26% for its electricity spend,
Reflecting on her time as chair social media presence, Suffolk is others to follow in order to
a better place for women to be more effectively contribute to then a further 31% saving across its gas
of SBW, Lina said: “As someone supplies.
who is passionate about in business now than it was in the ongoing success story that is
2010 when I first became chair.” Suffolk PLC. A diverse business Peter Owen, partner at James Aldridge,
ensuring that our society gives said: “We’re delighted with the savings
everyone an equal chance to Ginny Idehen praised Lina for community is always a stronger
her contribution and efforts in one.” that Paul secured for us. We simply
realise their potential, I believe didn’t have time and wouldn’t have had
that SBW has made a major building up SBW into the Free membership of the
influential body it currently is. award-winning SBW is open to access to the range of suppliers they
contribution to informing and engage with to do this on our own.
inspiring Suffolk’s brilliant She praised her: “Extraordinary all business women based in
achievements in breaking down Suffolk, whether they have their These savings are far greater than the
businesswomen to do just this. cost of our Suffolk Chamber
“We still have some way to go barriers and inspiring others. own business, are an employee,
Lina is herself such an inspiration or are currently on a career membership, so for us that’s a terrific
to break down all the barriers result.”
that hold us back or and I feel very fortunate to be break. For further information
stepping up as SBW’s chair and how to join contact Clare If you’d like to learn more visit www.
unintentionally marginalise our auditel.co.uk/suffolkchamber or call Paul
contributions to the prosperity given the organisation’s strong Harding by emailing clare@
reputation and dynamism which burystedundschamber.org on 01473 350999.
of the county, but I believe that
Chamber’s A14 campaign gathers pace
After the success of the April No More A14 hoped to achieve and the best means of Stephen Britt, chair of the Suffolk Chamber
Delays in Suffolk breakfasts in both Bury St co-ordinating its activities. Transport Infrastructure Group, welcomed the
Edmunds and Ipswich, hosted by The new board will meet new board: “This is a positive step forward in
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, quarterly, and will provide a that it brings together all the interested parties
plans are being advanced to place focus for the campaign, ensuring in a way that should maximise the impact of
the campaign on a longer-term that all necessary technical work our lobbying work to ensure that the A14 is fit
basis. is undertaken and that the for purpose at the earliest opportunity.
Therese Coffey MP has kindly campaign profile is maintained “A key part of that work is to build up
agreed to chair a Strategic so that enhancements to the evidence now as to how the delays on the
Overview Board for the campaign. A14 in Suffolk feature A14 are impacting upon how businesses in
The board’s first meeting was held prominently in the next stage Suffolk operate and indeed the influence this
on July 1 at the Suffolk Chamber boardroom (covering 2020 to 2025) of the Government’s may be having on their future investment and
in Ipswich and scoped out what the campaign roads investment strategy. relocation decisions.”
www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 13New members
l 032
l Mr Aziz Oztoprak
01473 228811 l Blake Bryson
Manager - air and ocean
jacqui@jacobbaileygroup.com Publishing Ltd department
www.032design.co.uk 01787 246010 We are an independent private
Mrs Jacqui Gray joanne@bbpmagazines.com company offering customised
Business marketing director www.bbpmagazines.com logistics and transport solutions
Branding and shopper marketing worldwide.
Ms Joanne Greenhalgh
agency.
Finance administrator
We produce and publish high
l Haven Power Ltd
l Amazing Grazing Foods quality lifestyle magazines for 01473 725943
Ltd our clients as well as Bury & contact.us@havenpower.com
01473 828996 West Suffolk magazine. www.havenpower.com
sales@hadleighmaid.com Mr Ashley Vigor
www.hadleighmaid.com Marketing manager
Mr Gavin Bowie l Box-it East Limited Haven Power is a business
Sales and marketing director 01284 810311 electricity supplier offering
A chocolate manufacturer renewable power options from
eastsales@boxit.co.uk
producing bars, selection boxes, Biomass technology.
www.boxiteastdocument
truffles, novelty shapes, walnut
storage.co.uk
whirls and chocolate teacakes.
Mrs Claire Brooks l Home-Start Suffolk
Managing director 01473 621104
Document management services: office@homestartcoastal.co.uk
l Anglia (Civils) Limited
storage and retrieval, confidential www.homestarteastsuffolk.org.
01473 652590
disposal, indexing and scanning. l Easy Price Pro uk
sales@angliacivils.co.uk l Calm For Change
www.angliacivils.co.uk 07795 311354 03333 321502
Mr Daniel Westhorpe info@lindabarbour.co.uk info@easypricepro.com
l Ms Ella Heeney
Marketing and project manager l Business Doctors www.lindabarbour.co.uk www.easypricepro.com
Fundraising co-ordinator
A civil engineering company Ms Linda Barbour Mr Lewis Naulls
(Norwich) Charity supporting families
encompassing its own plant hire. Sole trader Business development manager
0845 163 1483 in Suffolk for whom the pressures
Therapeutic coaching for Providing the building and of family life have become too
nicholase@businessdoctors.
individuals and groups. construction industry with easy to great to cope with alone.
co.uk use estimating and management
l B Chocolates (Suffolk)
www.businessdoctors.co.uk/ programs/software.
Ltd
norwich l Culina Logistics l Integral Promotions Ltd
01394 459925
anna.mccreadie@hotmail.co.uk Mr Nicholas Eastaugh 01223 395002 0345 200 1020
www.bchocolates.co.uk Director steven.morris@culina.co.uk l Emaline Weddings colin@integralpromotions.
Ms Anna McCreadie Business Doctors Norwich is a www.culinalogistics.co.uk 07812 374384 co.uk
Prospective owner business support service Mr Steven Morris weddings@wingfieldbarns.co.uk www.integralpromotions.co.uk
An artisan caramel and chocolate dedicated to helping SMEs General manager www.wingfieldbarns.com Mr Colin Kitchener
making business. achieve their vision. 3PL provider - chilled sector. Ms Emma Redmond Co-director
Director Supplier of promotional
Wedding co-ordinators. merchandise and work wear
clothing.
l GE Aviation Systems Ltd
l Jacobs Allen Chartered
01638 663381
Accountants - Haverhill
jeff.kennelly@ge.com 01284 704260
www.ge.com ask@jacobsallen.co.uk
Mr Jeff Kennelly www.jacobsallen.co.uk
Plant leader Mr Michael Ford
Design and manufacture of Client manager
custom electronic modules and Chartered accountants and
ruggedised displays. chartered tax advisers
l Grant Thornton UK LLP l Kbeverage Ltd -
01473 221491 Lowestoft
rob.s.thomson@uk.gt.com 07909 361111
www.grant-thornton.co.uk alok@kbeveragegroup.com
Mr Rob Thomson www.kbeveragegroup.com
Director Mr Alok Yadav
Director
Independent assurance, tax and
Coffee shop.
advisory firm.
l Lloyds Bank - Norwich
l Greencarrier Freight 07525 698045
Services (UK) Ltd samuel.payne@lloydsbanking.com
01473 282600 www.lloydsbank.com/business
aziz.oztoprak@greencarrier. Mr Sam Payne
com Manager
www.greencarrier.co.uk Banking
14 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600For further information about Chamber membership contact
01473 680600 or membership@suffolkchamber.co.uk
l M & A Plumbing &
Heating (EA) Ltd
01502 539223
mattpatnell@yahoo.co.uk
www.maplumbingheating.co.uk
Mr Matthew Patnell
Director
Plumbing, heating and renewable
services in Norfolk and Suffolk.
l Marilyn Martin FCA
07747 695808
Lynm3011@gmail.com
Ms Marilyn Martin
Owner
Business mentoring, individual
career counselling, providing
financial direction. Non-exec
director.
l Mark Westley
Photography
01638 720783
markjwestley@gmail.com
www.markwestleyphotography.
com
Mr Mark Westley
Photographer l Oulton Media Group Ltd l Seed Environmental l Transfaction
News, PR and sport 01502 586049 l STP Group 01284 754412
Limited
photographer. office@oultonmediagroup.co.uk 01440 703303 info@transfaction.com
0844 381 5650 salesoffice@stp.co.uk
www.oultonmediagroup.co.uk www.transfaction.com
adrian@seedenvironmental. www.stp.co.uk
Mr Fox Tucker Mr Martin Robinson
net Mr David Barber Founder
l MSM Consultancy Managing director
Social media services, web site www.seedenvironmental.net Commercial director We provide dynamic time control
Services Mr Adrian Bhreathnach Office supplies, furniture,
development, social media reports to help companies reduce
07805 267383 computers, janitorial supplies, logistics and transport costs.
management, social media Director
mariemartinalli@icloud.com marketing, content and set up. education products, managed print
Seed Environmental is a
Ms Marie Martinalli machines: everything for your office.
multi-disciplinary contracting
Consultant l Whites Catering
company providing services to the
Health and social care bid writing l Parker Communications 0844 826 3242
domestic, commercial and l Stuart Design info@whitescatering.co.uk
for tenders, training for care 01473 636983
info@parkercom.co.uk insurance markets. 01206 588603 www.whitescatering.co.uk
certificate, moving and handling
www.parkercom.co.uk getmore@stuart-design.co.uk Mr Paul Warner
and first aid.
Mr Michael Parker www.stuart-design.co.uk Manager
Managing director l Southwold Pier Ltd Mr Stuart Harris Hospitality and event catering in
Conference and event organisers/ 01502 722105 Director any location. Corporate and private.
l Nwes Property specialists. Website design, graphic design, Bars, pop up restaurants, fine
Services Ltd admin@southwoldpier.
printing and web development. dining, cocktail parties, street food.
07779 880141 co.uk
anita.edwards@nwes.org.uk l Placesmith Marketing
www.southwoldpier.co.uk
www.nwes.org.uk (Placesmith Ltd) Mr Alex Paul l Swains Plc l Wilglen Limited
Ms Anita Edwards 07446 866687 Director 01485 524000 07926 001027
damon@placesmith.com Britain’s only 21st century client.services@swainsplc.co.uk enquiries@wilglenlimited.co.uk
Business adviser
www.placesmith.com pier. www.swainsplc.co.uk www.wilglenlimited.co.uk
Not for profit enterprise agency
Mr Damon Smith Miss Julie McLaughlin Mr Graham Wilson
- advice, training, finance, business Director of HR and marketing Company director
Founder
premises, conferencing, meetings, Effective, measurable and Suppliers of voice and data Management consultancy - change,
co-working and virtual tenancy. l St Edmundsbury solutions.
profitable marketing strategies projects, productivity improvements
that make your business grow. Cathedral and performance coaching.
01284 748720
l Omnis Software commerce@steds l The Business Video
01223 422099 l Rural Broadband cathedral.org Portal Ltd l Zoological Society of
info@omnissoftware.com 01485 572253 www.stedscathedral.co.uk 07941 074073 East Anglia
sales@ruralbroadband.co.uk Mr Tony Kimber info@thebvp.com 01953 715317
www.omnissoftware.com
www.ruralbroadband.co.uk www.thebvp.co.uk martin.dupee@zsea.org
Ms Patricia Effendi Administrator and director of
Mr Richard Dix Mrs Sandra Augusti Mr Martin Dupee
Director Director commerce Director Director of operations
Integrated business management Supplier of satellite broadband Cathedral for the Church of Unique online business video Registered charity founded in 2013.
software supplier and consultant and mobile technologies from England’s Diocese of St directory that showcases a The beneficiaries of all we do with your
for SMEs. home users to event organisers. Edmundsbury and Ipswich. business with a video. support are the animals in our care.
www.suffolkchamber.co.uk
Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 15On your doorstep
Turtle Trail set
to return with
international theme
T
he much-loved Lowestoft Over the past four months
Turtle Trail returned for the Lowestoft Vision has been working
third time this month as part behind the scenes to develop the
of the Lowestoft Summer Festival. trail. In February it contracted local
The trail was first introduced to the company Scenic Projects to
town by Lowestoft Vision (part of decorate the turtles which included
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in providing the designs for 13 of
John Dugmore with Matt Moss. Picture: ARCHANT Lowestoft and Waveney) in July them. The remaining five turtles
2014 and following its success were designed by local primary
returned in 2015. The trail proved schools.
Suffolk Chamber in Bury St extremely popular in attracting
both the local community and
Darren Newman, Lowestoft Vision
Business Improvement District
Edmunds at the heart of visitors and, as a result, businesses
and the local community requested
manager, said: “We are really
excited by the designs which Scenic
influencing positive change the turtles return for one final time.
The trail involves finding 18 giant
Projects and our local schools have
provided and it is great to see the
Suffolk Chamber of Edmunds, met up with Ian turtles hidden around the town turtles on display.”
Commerce in Bury St Gallin, chief executive of centre. This year there’s an “We have been amazed with the
Edmunds continues to be at Forest Heath District and St international theme, linking to designs we’ve received.”
the forefront in delivering its Edmundsbury Borough events such as the Olympic Games. This year’s trail runs until
manifesto commitments Councils. Those taking part will need to September 4 and is sponsored by
aimed at building up the “I raised with him our identify which country each turtle The Beach, Wyse Media (UK) Ltd,
capacity of the borough’s concerns about the lack of represents, with completed trail MR King & Sons, the International
growing and diverse readily available development maps entered into a prize draw to Boatbuilding Training College,
economic base. land in and around Bury St win a cash prize. In addition, there Gunton Hall Coastal Resort and
According to Suffolk Edmunds – especially for firms will be weekly prizes on offer. Mitchells Renault.
Chamber in Bury St Edmunds needing additional
chair Matt Moss, this means warehousing capacity.”
the organisation’s role is more
of a collaborative one, rather
“Ian suggested that, in part,
this was due to the Chamber in Haverhill continues
than one which is directing assumption made by firms
specific campaigns for or
against something.
and planners about a decade
ago that we were entering
its push on A1307 improvements
“Obviously we are fully into an ‘Amazon era’ of a few Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in are confident that these two pieces
behind the Suffolk Chamber mega-warehouses supplying Haverhill continues to lead the of work will strengthen our case
of Commerce’s No More the whole country. Planners campaign for improvements along for dualling the A1307.”
A14 Delays in Suffolk accordingly reduced the the A1307, where bottlenecks and In late May, those campaigning for
campaign. But the way we allocation of smaller sites for delays have for too long caused improvements to this vital road,
work locally – and who we this use.” problems for local businesses, their led by chamber representatives,
work with locally – means However, Suffolk Chamber in customers and their staff. had the pleasure of meeting with
that our role is as a critical Bury St Edmunds welcomed According to Suffolk Chamber in Lucy Frazer, MP for South East
friend and as a facilitator the forthcoming eastern relief Haverhill chair, Paul Donno: “We Cambridgeshire.
through using our extensive road, due to be completed in are now seeing the results of our The aim was to begin to build a
network,” Matt said. summer 2017, as it should lobbying and campaigning. working relationship with the MP
Suffolk Chamber‘s ease some of the pressure on “A comprehensive traffic survey is and start a dialogue aimed at
representatives in Bury St the A14 and unlock being commissioned for the A1307 ensuring the various opinions
Edmunds are active in development land for the corridor by Cambridgeshire about the A1307 could be
meeting with partner building of 500 houses, a new County Council with their local discussed in an honest but
organisations especially as secondary school and the authority partners on behalf of the constructive manner.
regards the availability of new Suffolk Business Park Greater Cambridge City Deal According to Paul: “I hope that we
suitable plots of land for which will give fantastic Board. will have more of these meetings
future business use. opportunities for new and “At the same time the growth as we strive to work with all
In late May, Matt on behalf of existing businesses to grow forecasts in the report for interested parties in our efforts to
Suffolk Chamber in Bury St and develop. Haverhill will be reviewed and we help businesses in Haverhill.”
16 ChamberVoice Summer 2016 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600You can also read
