Simon Fanshawe gives a thumbs up to Worthing’s tourism industry!

Writer and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe OBE, was the special guest at a celebration dinner held in Worthing on Sunday June 29.

The event at the Ardington Hotel in Steyne Gardens marked the end of the two-year Seaconomics project to boost tourism in Worthing and Adur.

Around 50 people, including Worthing’s new mayor Vic Walker, were entertained by a witty speech from Mr Fanshawe.

Proceedings were led by James Appleton, Head of Planning, Regeneration and Wellbeing at Adur and Worthing councils.

The evening united various local businesses who have taken part in the Seaconomics project.

Training provided by Worthing-based Sussex Learning Solutions has helped local firms focus on the potential benefits from tourism.

Firms ranging from guest houses and restaurants to shops and attractions have learnt how to make their mark and attract trade, whether through social media, websites, foreign language skills or visual merchandising.

During the evening attendees were given certificates recognising their training and four businesses were awarded certificates of commendation. These were the Manor Guest House in Broadwater, Carrots Cafe in Shoreham, Coombes Farm at Lancing and The Men’s Gift Shop in Worthing.

Simon Fanshawe said: “Every town tells their own story. Worthing is the quiet elegant sister alongside its rowdy seaside neighbours of Brighton and Hove That's why both Oscar Wilde and Harold Pinter went there to write. Sandwiched between the downs and the sea that calm enjoyment is now welcoming championship kite surfing and top-end development. It was a great pleasure to be invited to share the first green shoots of Worthing's tourism renaissance at the Seaconomics awards. "

Janice Fraser, Adur & Worthing’s tourism development & marketing officer, adds: “It was lovely to be able to celebrate the success of the last two years with the businesses that have participated in the Seaconomics project.

“Not only was the marvellous evening enjoyed by one and all, but we also went away with the knowledge that the scheme has really helped so many businesses in Worthing and Adur make the most of the substantial opportunities offered by the tourism trade.”

The £350K Seaconomic investment into Worthing and Adur’s tourism industry has seen the installation of a fabulous new playground in Beach House Grounds, an Adur & Worthing Food and Drink Festival,  training and workshops to support 105 businesses, and promotion of sustainable tourism through walking and cycling. Further investment has been made in www.visitworthing.co.uk making it more attractive to visitors and driving up the number of click-throughs. An investment was also made in display equipment to showcase Adur and Worthing at national and international trade shows.

The Seaconomics project started in 2011 and finishes in September 2014 and involve partners from Kent, Worthing, and Essex, Holland, Belgium and France.

We’re nearly there. We’re within touching distance of opening. The shop has been rewired, plumbed and soundproofed (yes, soundproofed – a condition of our planning consent). The kitchen is being constructed as we speak and equipment is arriving.

There has been blood, sweat and tears (a lot of sweat when putting five coats of paint on the ceiling during a heatwave). There have been ups and downs, highs and lows and copious amounts of coffee, cake and visits to Nigel’s.

But we need your help to get us across the final hurdle, to help fill the final gap in our financial puzzle.

We’re now crowdfunding for cake.

New to crowdfunding? You’re not alone. The idea is young but it is simple – it literally means sourcing funds from the crowd.

Often called ‘democratic finance’ it is a way of bypassing traditional financial institutions (which let’s face it, aren’t lending that freely) but importantly to Baked, it is also about building and benefitting the community. Individuals pledge money because they believe in the cause and in return, are rewarded in some way (in our case, with tea and cake).

So we’re looking for your help. We’re calling on our local community and drawing on our strong network of support to help us do things differently in Worthing. To create real positive social change and fulfil our social mission of creating a community hub in Worthing. And the rewards are pretty good.

Click here and be part of the journey.

The inaugural meeting of the A27 Action Group took place on 26th June at Worthing College. The aim of campaign is to persuade government that there is a compelling case for selecting the A27 for dualling across West Sussex.

Chaired by Ricardo's Managing Director Martin Fausset, the meeting saw broad support from both local West Sussex and Westminster based politicians, as well as the business community, many of whom were represented individually as well as by Worthing and Adur Chamber’s CEO Tina Tilley.

The aim of the Action Group is to put together an evidence based case to persuade government that this section of road should be selected for funding ahead of a number of similar schemes across the country.  Timelines are short, with just 16 weeks before the deadline. Although there has already been an element of pre-selection in terms of the schemes vying for funding, feedback from businesses affected by the frequent delays and unpredictability of the route will be key to persuading government that the A27 should be top of the funding pile. Sadly the reality is that East West communications across the South of England are appalling with a patchwork of roads that are not fit for purpose, stifle business growth and efficiency and have an effect right across the South Downs where A27 rat running has become a regional sport (ask anyone in Storrington). 

At the meeting a number of opinions were voiced. Of particular interest was that of Chris Spratt, Chairman of the Worthing Town Centre Initiative but more particularly in this respect as a chartered surveyor and estate agent with experience of the previous schemes to bypass Worthing with a dual carriageway. Having been involved with the buying and selling of properties on behalf of the Government in relation to two previous schemes Chris’ advice to those running the Action Group is simple. In relation to the section of dual carriageway which is needed to deal with the Worthing’s horrendous traffic problem speak with one voice and decide upon a preferred route.

The reality is that no scheme will please everyone. Whether a new dual carriageway infringes on the South Downs National Park or is more central or indeed is in a tunnel, inevitably there will be opposition. Essentially though, this is a decision that impacts on the economic competitiveness of the whole of the south coast and is therefore an infrastructure decision ultimately to be made in Westminster (or should be) albeit with local consultation.

The report of the meeting would not be complete without reference to a lone but very loud voice opposing any action in the name of the planet. Argument and counter argument was put with relation to whether more pollution occurs from stop start traffic along the length of the Chichester Arundel and Worthing sections but perhaps the most interesting comment came from the Chairman who confirmed that his company, Ricardo, had already developed a zero emission engine. 

Have your say!

As a business or resident, whatever your view is about the A27 it's important that you make it known. Take a look at the A27 Action Group's website and join the debate. It's indisputable that millions of business pounds are wasted every year because of the delays on what is the main east to west coastal link in the south of England. Worthing, Arundel and Chichester suffer some of the worst delays and the resultant negative economic effects.

The A27AG needs hard evidence of the costs to business so do let them know how your business is affected by commenting through their website.

The government are looking at a number of schemes up and down the country and will make a decision by the end of the year as to which scheme will be favoured with funding. Let’s make sure it’s the A27.

Chris Coopey

We are constantly told that there is help available but how do you find it?
We understand you don’t have time when you are running a business to search through the 150 plus providers and schemes so we now have a resident local Business Support Navigator to do this for you and it is a free service for all businesses in our area.

Here are a few examples to give you a taste of what is available.

Did you know …..
•    There are grants of between £5,000 & £250,000 for businesses that wish to grow and increase employment?
•    There will be a new Business Start-up Hot House program starting in the autumn which provides 2 day boot camps 10 business workshops, 10 business coaching sessions   and 10 peer to peer mentoring sessions.
•    You could have a talented Intern in a focused role within the creative, digital, media and technology and green sector.  This 6 week Grant Assisted programme helps reduce the risks associated with taking on new talent.
These are just a few examples from the 150+ initiatives available and it is great to have someone to use as your single point of reference to access these Business Support & Growth Initiatives.

The aim is to help business growth by having a direct contact based locally providing
•    One-to-one support from Business Support Navigators
•    Signposting and referrals to local and national schemes supporting business growth 
•    Connecting businesses to business support groups and organisations

Please contact your local Business Support Navigator

• Tom Kenny at Worthing & Adur Chamber
• Kerry Kyriacou at Chichester Chamber
• Laura Evans at Brighton & Hove Chamber
  
  let them do the search for the best opportunities for your business. There is a central telephone number at Coast to Capital that will put you in touch with your local Navigator so call now 01403 333840

The project is part of the Business Navigator Growth Hub which Worthing and Adur Chamber, in cooperation with the Brighton & Hove and Chichester Chambers, are happy to be supporting this new initiative to help businesses access grants, support and funding opportunities is supported through the Regional Growth Fund managed by Coast to Capital and Brighton and Hove City Council.

It’s that time again ......... the 2014 Adur & Worthing Business Awards have been launched!

Held at the Worthing Pavilion Theatre on Friday November 14th, this year’s awards ceremony promises to be one of celebration for all involved, as businesses successfully complete their ride on the crest of the economic wave.

 Once again, Worthing & Adur Chamber of Commerce members will be out in force with many hoping to receive awards from host, ITV Meridian’s Fred Dineage, before automatically going straight into the running for the Southern Business Awards in 2015. The panel of judges will include our own Tina Tilley and James Stoner, Managing Director of JSPC Computer Services Ltd, headline sponsor of the awards and a previous winner.

Enter your nomination by 11th August, 2014 and you will be entered into a prize draw to win an ipad donated by JSPC Computer Services Ltd

Categories this year include:

Overall Business
Start – Up
Small Business
Medium Business
Manufacturing & Construction 
Business Personality
Lifetime Achievement 
Outstanding contribution to the community
Young Achiever
Large Business
Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure
Customer Service

If you would like to experience winning an award and the benefits it can have on your business, or if you believe another business deserves this success then log on to www.jpsouthevents.co.uk and fill in a nomination form online. And remember this year you can only enter 3 categories so choose carefully and submit an entry for each one!!

These are our top tips to consider when entering

• Read the category criteria you are entering
• Explain why you believe you should be awarded the title of the category you are entering.
• Explain what your company does and what it has achieved overall.
• Describe:
  Your company objectives
  How you achieved them
  The problems you encountered
  How you tackled these problems
• Explain your core values and describe how these are reflected in your current and future vision for your business.
• Can you demonstrate improvements in the quantity or quality of services offered during the last 12 months?
• How does your business add value to the local community?
• Any major contracts recently obtained, can you demonstrate evidence of turnover, growth, profit etc
• Supporting Evidence and testimonials from Customers and suppliers, make it known you have been nominated and would appreciate your customers support.

Next Peer Mentoring Taster Session - 18th September Book your place now!!

Following five successful groups of the Peer Mentoring Programme which supported over 50 local businesses owners we are ready to start GROUP SIX!!!! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting and beneficial programme.

The Mentoring groups will consist of 10-12 like-minded business people all keen to share their business expertise and willing to learn from and support each other. What will you gain? Thinking time to work on (rather than in) your business

The opportunity to explore projects in a confidential environment
A diverse pool of wisdom and expertise to draw on
A unique blend of challenge and support from your peers
Think tank for practical solutions to specific problems
Ideas for new products and services
Develop your management skills
Build relationships, trust and mutual understanding

Please contact the Chamber office for more information or to secure a place! Email: info@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk or call the office on 01903 203484.

Monday 11th August - Growth Voucher Business Support Clinic

Have you heard about Growth Voucher Government funding and are interested to find out more?

Are you a current local Growth Voucher Advisor who would like to attract more clients?

If you’re looking to invest in your business, Growth Vouchers can offer you up to £2k in match funding towards strategic advice in one of the following five areas: Raising Finance and managing cash flow, Marketing, Digital technology, Leadership & Management or Recruiting and Developing staff.

If you are interested in finding out about how to apply for a Growth Voucher, and chatting to our independent business advisors, or if you are a Growth Voucher Adviser on Marketplace and would like to discuss the initiative in more detail and pick up marketing literature, then please come along to our Growth Vouchers Business Support Clinic.

It’s being held on Monday 11^th August 2014 From 1pm until 4pm, in the Worthing and Adur Chamber of Commerce room at Worthing Town Hall. No need to book, just come along!

For more information please contact sheryl.tipton@enterprisefirst.co.uk.

Company formations hit an all-time high in Worthing during the first quarter of the year, according to a new report from Duport.co.uk.

Between January and March, there were 261 new companies registered - more than any other quarter on record and a 22% rise on the previous year.

In further good news for Worthing, a local enterprise partnership (LEP) investing in West Sussex, has recently secured £202 million in funding from central government. Investment will take place in flood defences, major transport schemes, international trade and support for businesses across West Sussex and the surrounding area.

Managing Director of Duport.co.uk, Peter Valaitis commented:

 “A rising number of company formations is an excellent sign for the local economy of Worthing, suggesting business confidence is high and entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the area.”

 
The Duport Business Confidence Report for Worthing is made up of a variety of data and statistics, giving a valuable insight into the local economy. More information can be found at http://www.duport.co.uk/worthing.

Come and join us and  preview  our delicious New Summer Menu this  Friday (11th July 2014) - reduced price for one night only! We really  want to hear your thoughts!

Including a third of a bottle of wine per person

Two course £18:00 

Three course £25:00 

MENU

Double baked goat cheese soufflé,

apple and walnut salad (v)

 Aubergine and feta croquettes with tarragon aioli (v)

 Chicken liver and sherry parfait, 

toasted brioche, Armagnac prunes

 Chilled pea and mint soup,

crème fraiche and chives (v)

 …

 Pan fried fillet of plump locally caught plaice, herb and polenta crust,

tomato salad and new potatoes

 Classic Italian Porchetta,

olive oil and parmesan mash,

roasted butternut squash

 Basque chicken slowly cooked with chorizo and sundried tomatoes, braised rice with sweet peppers

 Roasted aubergine and courgette, herb and ricotta tart, green salad with balsamic and olive oil dressing (v)

 Local lobster and smoked salmon salad,

tarragon mayonnaise and new potatoes (£5:50) ~ if you would like lobster, please pre order when booking

..

 Summer pudding, fresh basil and mint sorbet

 Vanilla and saffron poached pear with almond cream and Belgian chocolate truffle

 Zesty lemon and lime posset,

raspberry coulis and meringue drops

 A selection of British cheese ad biscuits with homemade apple pickle

Including a third of a bottle of wine per person

Two course £18:00 

Three course £25:00 

Reservations by Thursday Midday latest

There will be a maximum of 70 guests on the evening

Booking from 6:30 – 9:00pm

01903 230451 

Next Peer Mentoring Taster Session - 17th July Book your place now!!

Following five successful groups of the Peer Mentoring Programme which supported over 50 local businesses owners we are ready to start GROUP SIX!!!! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting and beneficial programme.

The Mentoring groups will consist of 10-12 like-minded business people all keen to share their business expertise and willing to learn from and support each other. What will you gain? Thinking time to work on (rather than in) your business

The opportunity to explore projects in a confidential environment
A diverse pool of wisdom and expertise to draw on
A unique blend of challenge and support from your peers
Think tank for practical solutions to specific problems
Ideas for new products and services
Develop your management skills
Build relationships, trust and mutual understanding

Please contact the Chamber office for more information or to secure a place! Email: info@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk or call the office on 01903 203484.