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News & updates 

Regular news and updates from the Chamber, our members, local Councils and other relevant business news will be posted regularly here. 

Don't forget, as a member one of your many benefits is being able to submit your press releases and news for inclusion here as well as on either the members or business news emails and social media. Please submit to lauren@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk 


  • 08 February 2018 1:45 PM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Win a £2,000 bed for the wonderful of Worthing

    In and around Worthing, there are many unsung heroes who act selflessly for the benefit of others.  These people often go unrecognised, but now you have the chance of nominating them for a Sussex Beds Wonderful Award.

    The family-run, independent bed retailer is looking to hear about outstanding people in the area who go the extra mile to make a difference.

    The winner will receive a bed of their choice worth up to £2,000 - because the least they deserve is a great night’s sleep!

    Nominations are now open and people are being urged to put names forward to compete for the title. 

    To make a submission email wonderfulawards@pmwcom.co.uk with a short description of the nominee, why they deserve to win, their contact details and the area they live in. Please also include your own contact details. Nominations can be made until midnight on Sunday 11th March.

    Steve Pickering, MD of Sussex Beds, said, “We opened our Worthing store last year and have been made to feel a part of the neighbourhood very quickly.  As a local business we want to give something back to those who help make our communities a great place to live and work.

    “Perhaps your neighbour works for the emergency services and deserves a great night’s sleep because of their shifts, or maybe you know someone who gives their time to help a good cause.  Whatever it is they do that makes a difference to other people’s lives, we want to hear about it.”


  • 08 February 2018 11:19 AM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Greater Brighton is expanding: Crawley and Gatwick join the City Region

    Greater Brighton is ready to take the next step in bringing national and global investment into the area after Crawley Borough Council and Gatwick Airport were officially welcomed into the City Region.

    As both were voted on to the Greater Brighton Economic Board (GBEB), City Region leaders said the move was significant in increasing the scale and profile of its work.

    The addition of Crawley, one of the south east's powerhouse economies, means the City Region's economy is now worth more than £21 billion and represents nearly 900,000 residents.

    With one of Europe’s leading international airports also on board, it brings Greater Brighton’s profile in line with other City Region’s that are high on Government’s radar – Manchester, Birmingham and Newcastle.

    More importantly it incorporates fully the A23 corridor into the region, meaning there is now a united voice for the body to clearly articulate the case for investment into the area.

    Board members pledged to use the move to step up the campaign for better transport infrastructure, especially much-needed improvements in the Brighton Main Line; as well as developing a proactive Inward Investment and Trade strategy which will drive further growth.

    Councillor Andy Smith, GBEB Chairman, said: “Greater Brighton has made great strides since being formed in 2011 - attracting £150 million of direct investment which has unlocked tens of thousands of homes and seen many more jobs created.

    “The addition of Crawley Borough Council and Gatwick means we can step up this work, elevating our city region further into the minds of decision makers on a national and international stage.

    “The London-Gatwick-Brighton Growth Corridor has been recognised as one of nine corridors in England that have been at the heart of growth over the last decade. Our region is almost certain to maintain that pivotal role in the future so it's crucial we do everything we can to maximise our potential.

    “Our work, bringing together local authorities, businesses and academia, is vital to that.”

    The move was formally ratified at a meeting of the Greater Brighton Economic Board (GBEB) held yesterday (Tuesday February 6).

    Members of the board heard how Crawley was a real economic powerhouse - representing just two per cent of the land mass in West Sussex and only 110,000 residents, yet generating 25 per cent of the county's wealth and 40 per cent of the business rates.

    With more jobs than residents, thousands of people travel into the area to work every day - which makes investment in transport, particularly the rail network, a crucial aim.

    Crawley leaders said they were looking forward to working with GBEB to drive forward investment in jobs along the A23 corridor; as well as developing a strategic approach to workforce skills.

    They also wanted to use Greater Brighton to build business relationships between its globally-recognised STEM workforce and Greater Brighton's digital and creative sector.

    Councillor Peter Lamb, leader of Crawley Borough Council, said: “The challenges we face on the ground as councils increasingly require us to look beyond our own borders. By joining with the other members of Greater Brighton, we seek to resolve the combined challenges faced by residents across all our communities.”

    Gatwick is one of the South East’s most high profile and important anchor businesses with 24,000 direct employees, as well as 13,000 indirect employees, from across the region.

    Board members heard how the airport is a major investor in growth, having invested £1.7 billion since 2009 with plans to invest a further £1 billion before 2021. It is also an attractor for inward investment, providing access to markets for business as well as supporting the ongoing growth of tourism.

    Gatwick representatives said being part of the board meant they were looking forward to work together with local authorities and business partnerships to tackle the challenges faced by the region.

    Tim Norwood, Gatwick Airport’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Planning and Sustainability, said: “Gatwick is delighted to have been invited to join the Greater Brighton Economic Board and we look forward to working with representatives from the region to ensure continued prosperity and economic growth.

    “Gatwick plays a key role in the local economy and, in addition to the 24,000 jobs sustained on the airport campus, provides a global gateway for thriving local business sectors.”  


  • 07 February 2018 4:39 PM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Adur & Worthing Councils’ watchdog to quiz police chiefs

    Police chiefs will be grilled on operational issues by Adur & Worthing Councils’ watchdog at its next meeting - and the public are invited to have their say.

    Following concerns around response times and antisocial behaviour, Adur & Worthing Councils’ Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee (JOSC) requested Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne and the local district commander answer questions on a range of topics.

    Despite Ms Bourne now being unavailable due to other commitments, Chief Inspector Miles Ockwell, Adur & Worthing District Police Commander, will take questions from the panel of councillors.

    Members of the public are invited to submit their questions by Tuesday (February 13) ahead of the open meeting on February 15, which will take place from 6.30pm in the Gordon Room of Worthing Town Hall.

    Councillor Stephen Chipp, Adur District Council’s joint chairman of the Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee, said: “Local policing is an area of concern for all of our communities.

    “While we are disappointed Mrs Bourne can no longer attend, we want to thank Chief Inspector Ockwell for being available and hope he can shed some light on some of the major concerns that councillors and members of the public have on this issue.

    Councillor Roy Barraclough, Worthing Borough Council’s joint chairman of the Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee, said: “Although not a decision making body, JOSC is the watchdog of Adur & Worthing. It has enormous potential to influence and inform decisions made by both the Councils and organisations connected with the areas.

    “I hope as many members of the public as possible can attend this session and help us find answers to concerns over this crucial area of public service.”

    JOSC made the request to examine local policing after a number of concerns raised by local councillors. These include:

    · A heavy reliance on PCSO’s;

    · Claims there are very few Police on the ‘beat and not many were in cars due to a lack of resourcing;

    · Claims the public were waiting 45 minutes to get a reply to 101 and there were delays in the 999 response;

    · Claims it was taking over 24 hours to get a reply from the online reporting service;

    · Claims that follow ups were often non existent;

    · issues with drug dealing being reported but no action taken and issues with homeless/rough sleepers causing disturbances in Lancing.

    To submit a question, members of the public are asked to email democratic.services@adur-worthing.gov.uk by 6.30pm on Tuesday February 13.

    For full details on the meeting visit here.

     


  • 07 February 2018 4:32 PM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    HR & Governance Assistant Job Advert for Worthing Homes                                                                        

    Up to 12 Months (Maternity Cover) £22,500 per annum

    37 Hours per week

    Worthing Homes has over 3,678 properties housing 10,000 customers in the Sussex coastal area. We provide affordable rented homes, key worker accommodation, low-cost shared ownership, sheltered housing and new homes for local people. We are committed to providing great places to live and improving communities.

    We are now looking for a HR & Governance Assistant to join the team on a FTC up to 12 months Maternity Cover, making a significant and effective contribution to both the team and Worthing Homes - ensuring that it is well positioned to achieve its vision, current and future business and operational plans and performance targets. 

    Working with colleagues across the business so that we provide joined up services that meet our vision and values, you will demonstrate a high level of commitment and excellence in delivering both external and internal customer services and have high standards, demonstrating our values of customer focus, respect, transparency, innovation and commitment at all times.

    In the role you will provide administrative support by acting as the first point of contact for all routine queries, escalating to the HR Adviser as appropriate, and administering all HR and payroll (new starter and changes) processes, delivering excellent quality, flexible and customer focussed services. Supporting the Assistant Company Secretary and Senior Leadership Team with administrative tasks and projects (scheduling appointments, maintaining calendars etc.) you will provide basic level advice and guidance to employees in relation to HR matters, support recruitment campaigns, process all people related data in strict compliance with GDPR and prepare statistics and reports for the HR Adviser / Head of HR and Governance as required.

    Ideally qualified to CIPD Level 3 and with a good standard of education, you will have experience of administering HR Processes and of providing administrative support. A qualification in administrative studies (or equivalent) and with strong attention to detail and knowledge of Microsoft Office, you will be an excellent communicator with evident organisational and time management skills. Able to work under pressure and as part of a team, you will ideally have experience of minute taking and evidence of commitment to (and delivery of) high quality customer service and continuous improvement.

    In return we offer:

    ·         26 days holiday (pro rata)

    ·         Private medical insurance (after qualifying period)

    ·         Stakeholder pension scheme

    ·         Child care vouchers

     

    To apply, send your CV and covering letter, maximum 3 pages each to jobs@worthing-homes.org.uk            Closing date for the receipt of CV’s is midday Monday 12 February 2018. 


  • 07 February 2018 3:05 PM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Join us at the West Sussex Business Expo 2018!

    Come and join Worthing and Adur Chamber on stand 41 and see what we have to offer you, at the region’s biggest business to business exhibition taking place at Fontwell Park Racecourse on 45 May 2017, between 10am – 3pm.

    With over 400 businesses attending the show, this is a brilliant event to gather new contacts that could benefit your company in the near future.

    Don’t miss the chance to grow your connections by getting involved with workshops and speed networking throughout the day and listen to keynote speakers and become engaged with ideas and inspiration for your business. 

    Tickets are free, so there really is no excuse to miss out on this fantastic opportunity.

    To register for free tickets go to: www.b2bexpos.co.uk/WestSussex


  • 06 February 2018 10:37 AM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)


  • 06 February 2018 10:33 AM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Roses are red, violets are blue, the perfect Valentines is Indigo 


    Celebrate the one you love this Valentines Day with lunch or dinner at Indigo. A menu designed to tempt, tease and caress you. Make someone feel extra special with a sumptuous meal at Indigo. Take a look at what we've crafted to get your celebrations off to a great start. 
     

    Starters
    Indigo Fish Soup, Mussels and Prawns in a Shellfish Broth, Sourdough Croutons and Aioli
    Pan Fried Potato, Goat Cheese and Chive Terrine, Beetroot Ketchup and Rocket
    Slow Cooked Duck Terrine, Orange and Cranberry Compote, Sourdough Crisps
    Pan Seared King Scallops, Parsnip Puree, Pancetta Crumb and Parsnip Crisps

     Indigo Seafood Sharing Plate: Bloody Mary Prawn Cocktail, King Prawns in Garlic Butter, Salt and Pepper Squid, Mussels in a Thai Broth

     

     Pre order 48 hours in advance
    Poole Bay  Oysters
    48 hrs notice required 
    ½ dozen £10:50    One dozen  £20:00 
    Served with shallot vinegar, lemon and brown bread and butter

    Mains
    Beef Wellington to Share, Mushroom D’uxelle, Roasted Garlic and Madeira Jus,
    Crispy Salsify and Gratin Potatoes
     
    Pan Roasted Lamb of British Rump, Braised Puy Lentils, Celeriac Puree, Spinach and Port Sauce
     
    Grilled Fillet of Bass, Champagne and Oyster Cream, Braised Fennel and Warm Potato Salad
     
    Pan Roasted Skate Wing, Black Olive Mash, Roasted Tomatoes and Brown Shrimp Butter
     
    Crispy Potato Rosti, Shallot Puree, Roasted Shallots, Wild Mushrooms and a Poached Duck Egg (v)
     
    Spiced Roasted Vegetables, almond and raisin couscous, coconut yoghurt raita
     
    Breast of Chicken Pan Roasted, Pearl Barley, Baby Onion and Ham Hock Broth, Leek Croquette
     

    Desserts
    Chocolate Sharing Plate: Chocolate & hazelnut brownie, White Chocolate Mousse 
    Chocolate Orange Torte and Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream, Almond Tuile.
    Blackberry and Pear Crème Brulee, Warm Gingerbread.
    Steamed lemon sponge, lemon curd, passion fruit jelly. 
    Cherry and Almond Bakewell Tart, Amaretto custard,
    .A selection of Sussex cheese, apricot chutney and biscuits

    Freshly Ground Coffee or Tea Infusions &handmade Chocolates
     

    Lunch 
    Two-Course £26:50    Three-Course £32:50
    Dinner
    Three Course only £39:00

    Including a red rose for the Ladies

     


    A deposit of £20.00 per person is required at time of making a reservation and is non-refundable.


  • 06 February 2018 10:30 AM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    There's nothing to fear from robots...

    Say robots and most people may think of cute lovable characters from a range of futuristic films, such as Star Wars, Short Circuit and Wall-E.

    But, when it comes to the 21st century workplace, the relations of R2D2 are quite the debating point among business leaders.

    From engineering firms to financial services companies, the use of robots is increasing as CEOs and shareholders see the benefits of machines doing labour previously reserved for humans.

    The idea is that because machines need no pay, no rest and no added costs, such as pensions and sick pay, then it saves the company money in the long run.

    But of course, there can be a human cost - as the number of workers required to man and monitor the robots is far less than the numbers needed to do the work in the first place.

    It is this issue of automation which is causing quite a debate - so much so that it was the focus of the latest Centre for Cities Outlook 2018 report, which claims to be the definitive economic health check of the 63 largest urban areas in the UK.

    Within it, Centre for Cities claim that one in five jobs in cities across Great Britain is in an occupation that is very likely to shrink due to robots.

    When you think that the emphasis of organisations like CWS, which work with businesses, councils and other stakeholder, to drive economic growth you can see how this may be a real challenge moving forward.

    The truth is that Coastal West Sussex, which stretches from Adur across to Chichester, we already have a range of businesses that are doing great work in the field.

    It is perhaps because of this that Worthing - the only CWS are to feature in the list of 63 urban areas - came relatively high (16%, fourth out of 63) in the list of areas least affected by automation.

    In some ways, it is a good thing as it means that the local economy (I use 'local' as areas like Bognor, Shoreham and Chichester are similar economically) is already adapting to new technology and diversifying into areas like the creative and digital sectors.

    But this does not mean that we can rest on our laurels.

    This is why Coastal West Sussex is working with members and partner organisations to ensure that the workers of the future are equipped with the skills they and businesses need to thrive.

    We have placed an emphasis on developing Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths provision in our local schools, colleges and universities.

    We are also encouraging businesses to pay their part, by promoting apprenticeship programmes and upskilling their existing workforce.

    All of this will mean that people in Worthing and the other areas in the Coastal West Sussex area will have access to better paid and more secure work - something that is good for the economy as a whole.


  • 06 February 2018 10:25 AM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)


  • 24 January 2018 2:18 PM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Green light for major riverside development in Shoreham

    Plans to build 540 riverside homes - including 162 affordable units - on a derelict harbour site in Shoreham have been approved by councillors.

    Southern Housing’s proposal to create a ten building development on the Free Wharf site in Brighton Road received the green light at a meeting of Adur District Council’s planning committee last night (January 22).

    The approval is the first step in the local authority’s long-term ambition to regenerate Shoreham Harbour and create a new high-quality residential area with riverside promenade and cycle path.

    In addition to half of the three acre site being transformed into attractive public space, a retail unit, three restaurants, and office space for small and medium business will be created.

    Developers also pledged to set aside more than £2 million towards infrastructure improvements. This includes highways, schools and health provision as well as measures to mitigate the impact of the development on air quality.

    Councillor Carol Albury, Chairman of Adur District Council’s Planning Committee, said: “While it was not an easy decision to take, the committee believes this development will provide significant economic, social and environmental benefits which demonstrably outweigh any negative effects of the proposal.

    “As part of the Adur Local Plan, which was approved last month, the council has committed to building at least 1,100 houses along the western harbour arm. This is the first step in achieving that total.”

    Southern Housing said it had spent the last two years working closely with council planners and residents in drawing up the plans. The developers commented the design approach had received the support of the Coastal Design Review Panel and would “stand the test of time”.

    The 162 affordable homes, which meets quotas in the Adur Local Plan, includes 122 homes for shared ownership and 40 for affordable rent.

    Southern Housing said it would agree to a council request to provide more affordable rented apartments in the development in the future, if it was proved to be financially viable.

    In addition to the riverside pedestrian and cycle route, the developers will create mooring platforms and an observation platform at the end of Humphrey’s Gap.

    Flood defences lasting more than 100 years will also be provided at the former Minelco site.

    Councillors recognised the location of the site near to the town centre and railway station meant that the provision of 512 car parking spaces (438 for residents) was enough given the developers’ pledge to encourage residents to use sustainable transport. Space for 596 bicycles will also be provided.

    A detailed travel plan, which will deter future residents from owning cars, and £138,000 of section 106 payments will go towards limiting the impact of air pollution.

    Southern Housing said 224 jobs will be created in the construction phase with the council securing a commitment to use local labour force and employ apprenticeships where possible. Up to 170 further jobs will be provided once the development is complete.

    Councillor Brian Boggis, Adur District Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “The regeneration of the Shoreham Harbour arm has been a long held ambition of the council and I’m pleased that the committee has taken this first step in developing this former industrial area.

    “As well as providing some much needed affordable housing for local residents on a derelict brownfield site, half of the area will be turned into high-quality public space - something that will enhance Shoreham’s growing reputation as a vibrant coastal town.”


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