Local News

Town Centre

Letter From The President

Composed by Bruce Andrews, and published in the LEATHERHEAD ADVERTISER on 23rd May:

"In last week's (9 May) letters page there were a number of letters from local politicians concerning who had and who had not been consulted on the ill conceived water feature.

As President of the Chamber of Trade and Commerce I feel I must put the record straight. The Chamber has never been in favour of a water feature and has consistently campaigned for a link road from Church Street to Bridge Street.

Whether it is deliberate or not, this issue should not be confused by the political infighting that is going on between the various parties - clearly evident in the politicians' letters published last week.

The Chamber of Trade and Commerce met with Surrey County councillors in September 2000. The purpose of that meeting was to agree a schedule of works for phase two and to get an assurance that the work would not interfere with Christmas trade, as phase one had done. There was no discussion about a water feature or any other aspect of the scheme, only the timing.

Why do the politicians keep telling everyone that Leatherhead Ahead, the Chamber of Trade and Commerce and the Leatherhead Society want traffic roaring up and down the High Street. This is totally untrue. What these organisations want is limited access and convenience to bring back some life to the town. It should also be remembered that the goal posts have been moved. Originally the water feature would have had a backdrop of a seven screen cinema and a health club. That backdrop is now to be a hotel, the water feature would prevent access to vehicles, and the hotel would lose convenience, do we expect visitors to carry their bags to the hotel?

Does it really matter that there are 11 empty shops and not 17 as previously stated? Minor inaccuracies are not the issue, and quotes that Leatherhead Ahead conned the public are again untrue. Do councillors really think that people believe a water feature would cost £600,000? Of course they don't, although we do know from experience that often the first figure quoted is not the final figure.

Now that the elections are over can we not start doing what is best for Leatherhead rather than all the squabbling between the various political parties? The community is not concerned whether you are red, blue or yellow - it just wants what is best for Leatherhead."

From the Pen of Peter Stait …

… Leatherhead Town Centre Manager
Despite the recent doom, gloom and exaggerated claims expressed in certain quarters recently about retail vacancies in the town, there has been a phenomenal upsurge in interest in vacant properties, and a large take-up of vacant units is expected shortly. Inward investment in the High Street since the beginning of this year has reached over £1.4m with the following transactions:

36/38 High Street (formerly Creature Comforts)
Contracts have already been exchanged for the purchase of the freehold of this unit with vacant possession, with completion due by the end of May. The premises have been allowed to get into a very dilapidated condition and the new owners will be spending a substantial sum on re-furbishing them to put them into lettable condition. It is understood that an offer for the lease is being considered, which will involve a much needed new shopfront.

26/28 High Street (Halfords and vacant unit)
These two units were purchased recently at auction by a property company that already has extensive holdings in Leatherhead, reflecting their confidence in the town. The vacant unit has been leased by Halifax for the last seven years or so, but never occupied by them. Their intention was to re-locate from existing smaller branch premises at 21 High Street, but this proposal was abandoned recently and the unit put on the market. The new owners may shortly be submitting a planning application for this unit with a named occupier.

16/22 High Street (formerly Ashtead Travel and Humphreys)
Probably the most controversial site in the High Street due to its long period of vacancy, the site has actually changed ownership four times in the last six years. However, the new owners, a Sevenoaks based development company, are currently drawing up plans for its re-development, which should shortly lead to the submission of a planning application. New hoardings have been erected on the High Street frontage and a mural, based on the theme of the Queen's Jubilee and sponsored by Leatherhead Town Centre Management, is to be painted on them by the pupils from the Arts Department of St. John's School.

6a High Street (formerly Mr Minit)
This very small unit (245sq.ft.) has recently closed due to continuing staff shortages. Agents have just been instructed to dispose of the lease.

31 High Street (formerly Brahms & Liszt)
It may not generally be known that this is the only unit with a High Street frontage that falls within the ownership of the Swan Centre. As such, it is subject to the restrictive covenants that apply to the Centre and these prevented a letting at the last minute earlier this year for a restaurant use. It is hoped that recent occupancy changes in the Centre now render this covenant void, and that a lease will shortly be signed for a new restaurant.

45/47 High Street
Shopfitting works to this unit are currently being carried out and a new Italian restaurant, Piazza Firenze, is due to open in June.

2 Swan Court (formerly Olympus Sports)
The lease is due to be surrendered shortly to the Landlords, enabling it to be enlarged into a new retail unit of approx. 5,000sq.ft. as part of the re-development of the Cornhill site. It is understood that negotiations are in hand with a prospective occupier for this new unit.

14 Swan Court (formerly Supa Snaps)
Supa Snaps, part of the Minit plc Group, appear to have closed for the same reasons as 6a High Street. Again, this is a small unit (340sq.ft.), but an offer to take a new lease is currently being considered.

15/16 Swan Court
These two, new, small units were created by the re-configuration of the Swan Centre following the extension of Sainsbury's. Negotiations are in hand to let these as one unit.

17 Swan Court (formerly Brennans Restaurant)
Whilst the recent closure of this long established business is to be regretted, there are a number of new restaurant proposals in the pipeline, with a new unit due to open shortly at 45/47 High Street (see above). Discussions are in hand with potential occupiers for this unit to return to retail use.

26 Church Street (formerly Victoria Wine)
This small unit of 740sq.ft recently closed, and Agents have just been instructed to dispose of the lease.

22 North Street (formerly Bookworm)
Shopfitting works have recently started for an Art Gallery.

17 North Street (formerly Chameleon)
Fitting-out works for a taxi office are virtually complete. Planning for this use was won on appeal.

30 North Street (formerly STS Computers)
This unit was vacated when STS expanded into larger premises in Church Street. A re-letting has recently been achieved to a fireplace shop.

In addition, the new Health and Fitness Club in The Crescent is due to be handed over shortly for fitting-out works, and plans for the new hotel and re-configuration of the existing retail mix at the bottom of the High Street are progressing.

From the above, it will be appreciated that virtually every "what appears to be" a vacant shop is, or shortly will be, subject either to new leases, redevelopment or refurbishment. This surge in interest in the town on this front should be applauded and publicised, and reflects the professionals' view of the town's future prospects. These facts go a long way to dispel some of the recent misinformation and knocking of the town that has been going on. Let's all talk the town up, not down ~ and look to the future not with pessimism, but with optimism.

Leatherhead District

Consortium Launches Business Incubators

A recent news release from Surrey Economic Partnership says: "Surrey's three leading research institutions have pledged to work together to boost the local economy. The Leatherhead Food Research Association [Chamber Members], University of Surrey and Royal Holloway University of London have formed a Research and Development Consortium. They expect rapid growth in their combined enterprise activity - and its impact on the region. As a first step, each is providing a business incubator - a flexible workspace where start-ups and high-tech businesses can be nurtured with mentors, investment and mutual support, delivered in close co-operation with Business Link Surrey. Each will be wired for fast internet access and will provide videoconferencing facilities".

If you would like a copy of the full press release, or further information on the availability of space in the incubators or other business development assistance, contact: Marilyn Huckerby, Enterprise Hub Director, on 01483 845232.

Over-Booked ?

From a Surrey Waste Management News Release this month: "Tonnes of unwanted books could soon be dumped in landfill when Oxfam's recycling bank at the Slyfield Civic Amenity Site in Guildford is withdrawn. Consequently, good quality books that have previously been donated by residents living in and around Surrey will end up as rubbish. Surrey Waste Management are very keen to hear from charities or groups that could benefit from the books on a regular basis".

Any Members who feel they could put these unwanted books to good use may contact: Nikki Dalrymple, SWM Communications Officer, on 0208 786 1090.

Members News

Members Changes

There are a few changes to be noted in your Membership Booklets:

Brennans Restaurant …
Has sadly closed for business, and we are very sorry to lose them as Members of the Chamber. Carmel and Peter Brennan hosted a very successful Business Card "Swap Shop" for fellow Chamber Members on the 25th of April, which was much enjoyed by the twenty-four "swappers" who attended the event. Our good wishes to Carmel and Peter for the future.

Expatriate Tax Advisory Service …
Karen Worcester has updated the Business Description as follows: "Expatriate tax advice for individuals and employers. Preparation of individual UK and US tax returns for UK, US and other foreign nationals, residing both inside and outside the UK."

Parallel Business Centres …
Sheena Weetman has left her position with Parallel, and the new House Manager for Fetcham Park House is Matthew Duffy, to whom we extend a warm welcome. Matthew supervised arrangements for the Chamber's Spring Reception last week ~ and our thanks go to him and his colleagues for ensuring the smooth running of the evening.

Spring Personnel …
Rachel Knight-Ruffles has advised us of a new Email address: personnel_leatherhead@spring.com ~ and also of a revision to the Business Description as follows: "Employment Consultants, established in Leatherhead for over 45 years (formerly trading as 'Squires'), specialising in the provision of both permanent and temporary secretarial, accounts, administration and sales staff."

Spring Social & Reception

A gathering of sixty-one Members, Councillors, local organisation Representatives and their Guests attended the Chamber's Spring Reception at Fetcham Park House on 23rd May. Bruce Andrews, our President, presented a short video on the theme of Town Centre Rejuvenation ~ a topic which engendered much lively conversation ! The event provided Members with an opportunity to meet and network with both one another and the Chamber's guests ~ and, of course, to partake of a glass of wine and an excellent buffet prepared by Harringtons Bakery, whilst enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Fetcham Park House. We were disappointed not to meet our expected guests who were unable to attend on the evening, and are sorry you couldn't join us ~ we very much hope that we will have an opportunity to welcome you all to the Autumn Reception in September.

A small plea to those Members who discovered they were still sporting their name badges on arriving home ~ it would be very much appreciated if these could be returned to the Chamber office, as stocks are now seriously dwindling ! Many thanks, in advance, for all returns.

HanSam Offers Benefits To Chamber

Chamber Members HanSam UK ~ the developers and hosts of the Leatherhead Chamber Website ~ are offering a special deal during the months of June and July.

Any Member wishing to have a website developed or re-developed by HanSam UK will automatically qualify for a year's FREE Hosting and Email ~ which is a great saving of £100 ~ BUT, what is more … 10% of the design cost will be DONATED to the Chamber.

For further information, and to take advantage of this offer ~ which greatly benefits the Chamber and its Members ~ please call HanSam on FREEPHONE 0800 389 3921, or Email at info@hansam.co.uk.

Credit Card Fraud

Bruce Andrews has twenty GIVEAWAY "Information Packs and Videos" which contain invaluable advice to traders on how to beat this crime. If you would like to take advantage of this offer, please call Bruce on 01372 376358 ~ the packs will go to the first 20 callers.

Christmas Party

We are delighted to announce that following a very favourable response to our Christmas Party Questionnaire, a firm booking has been made for Friday 13th December at the Chalk Lane Hotel in Epsom. Many thanks to all our respondents ~ we look forward to partying with you ! A flyer containing full details of the event and a booking form will be distributed shortly.

Members Soapbox

A Tip ?

"I'm a Member of an on-line workgroup, and one of our members offered a marketing tip for small businesses/sole traders a while back … which was basically to leave your business cards on tables/bars/counters (or anywhere else you deem appropriate !) of the pubs, restaurants, shops, waiting rooms etc. that you visit. I know this may sound ridiculous, but the member in question insists that a number of business leads have been gained in this way. Worth a try ?"
(Melodie Hunt: Capricorn Wordprocessing Bureau)

How quiet the rest of you are ! No issues you'd like to raise? … No helpful business hints or tips to share? … No bright ideas? Let's hear from you in time for the next Newsletter in July.

Members Spotlight

Pro Performance Services Ltd

PROFESSIONAL HOSPITALITY is a division of the Pro Performance Services Group based in Leatherhead at 66 Church Street. Corporate Hospitality should be viewed as a sound investment, whether it be to improve client loyalty or increase staff morale. It plays a large role in developing these relationships in business. Our individual attention to detail, whether it be a major Sporting or Cultural event, will assist you in achieving goals beyond your clients' expectations.

Looking To Entertain Your Clients This Summer ?

We still have availability at Royal Ascot, Wimbledon Tennis Championships, Henley Regatta and Capital Radio's "Party In The Park" ~ plus lots more …………

Why Not Leave The Organisation To Us ~ You'll Be In Good Hands

For more information, please contact our Hospitality team for more details on all Sporting & Cultural Events throughout the year, both in the UK and abroad.

Professional Hospitality
Devonshire House, 66 Church Street, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 8DP
Tel: 01372 224730 ~ Fax: 01372 224731
Email: hospitality@pro-performance.co.uk
Website: www.professional-hospitality.co.uk

Queen Elizabeth's Foundation

Appointment of New Principal of Queen Elizabeth's Foundation Training College (QEFTC)
Garry Billing was recently appointed as Principal of QEFTC. Garry was formerly the Operations Director of Safeway, and has wide experience of: business development, customer relations, change management and the delivery of a high quality service. He also brings a wide variety of skills from mainstream employment, including the development of best practice, and is committed to the concepts of continuous improvement, audit and review. As Principal, Garry hopes to further develop relations within both the local community and the Leatherhead Chamber.

Plant Sales from QEFTC Horticultural Section
A full range of perennials, shrubs and bedding plants are available at the College on Woodlands Road ~ Monday to Thursday from 8.30-4.30 and Friday to Sunday from 10.00-3.00. The Horticultural Section also runs a stall at the Leatherhead Town Centre Market on Thursdays. Profits are geared towards training disabled people for open employment.

Classic Car and Country Fair at Queen Elizabeth's Foundation 27/28 July 2002
Following last year's success (15,000 visitors) the Fair ~ sponsored by Bunzl and Halliburton and supported by Camelot ~ will take place at Woodlands Road on 27/28 July. In addition to hundreds of classic vehicles on show there will be numerous attractions, including the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas and an ice rink with snow ! Entry costs: £5 per Adult, £3 Children & OAPs, £15 Family Ticket. If you are able to advertise the event, please contact Anne Houlden on 01372 841127 for a flyer.

Queen Elizabeth's Foundation Charity Race Day at Epsom Racecourse ~ 11 September 2002
This race meeting, featuring in the Epsom Racing Calendar, will attract between four to five thousand race-goers. Be part of the occasion, and have a great day out with colleagues, clients or family. Tickets to the prestigious Queen's Stand are £100 (£90 before June 14) and include access, lunch with 1/2 bottle of wine (Guest Speaker Robin Oakley of BBC/CNN) and afternoon tea. Auction of Sporting Memorabilia and unique once-off items, and Raffle to raise funds for Queen Elizabeth's Foundation Brain Injury Centre at Banstead ~ helping brain-injured young people to reach their optimum level of independence. Contact Anne Houlden on 01372 841127 to book.

On Saturday 15th June
The Foundation is collecting at Sainsbury's in the Swan Centre to raise funds for services to disabled people. If you can spare an hour to help, please call Susan White on 01372 841128.
(An opportunity to publicise your organisation to the Membership. Two profiles will be presented in each Newsletter, maximum copy 250 words. Contributions are published in order of receipt. Your next Newsletter will be printed in July.)

DIARY OF EVENTS

Further Chamber Events will be organised during the course of the year. Members will be notified of these events by Flyer ~ and details will be also be published in each Newsletter, as well as being uploaded to the Website.