Dear Cobham Business Resident

You are probably aware of the Chamber of Commerce generally; but without being a member you may understandably wonder what exactly the Cobham Chamber of Cobham does and what it stands for.

In effect, when someone mentions the Cobham Chamber of Commerce, you may ask 'So What?'

So what .... is the Cobham Chamber of Commerce for?

Like all Chambers of Commerce, we exist to represent the interests of our local business community. But in Cobham we also recognise that the business community is very much part of the wider community as a whole and we liaise closely with other groups to address the commercial and community needs of Cobham and the surrounding area.

Cobham is an individual community with the heritage, heart and character of a village, which we strongly want to protect and preserve. But the Chamber also recognises the needs of a residential base of a large commuter area; international influence of a large American Community School and commercial presence of multi national stores, not to mention the Chelsea FC training ground a mile from the village centre.

So what .... does this mean in reality?

Well, Cobham Chamber of Commerce is an active and growing group of individuals representing local businesses, including larger businesses that have representation locally.

We value input and involvement from all our members and extend that to warmly welcome new members. The issues that face Cobham as a commercial centre affect everyone, large and small business alike. Our approach is that of a TEAM, where Together Everyone Achieves More – for Cobham and us.

Cobham Chamber of Commerce represents its members and -

• Is an opportunity for members to network with each other, share ideas, keep abreast of changes as they arise and simply review trading conditions
• Covers local matters of importance and relevance such as parking control; planning matters; rent reviews; new business entrants; business closures
• Has Committee membership on the Elmbridge Business Network, which gives representation at Elmbridge B.C. for issues that affect local businesses
• Liaises with Cobham Conservation & Heritage Trust (CCHT), Cobham & Downside Residents Association, the 'Envisage' local survey project
• Bids for Local Authority funding to maintain/enhance the commercial centre
• Organises local community events – Christmas Lights and Christmas shopping to attract footfall and support the commercial centre of Cobham
   

So what .... does the Cobham Chamber of Commerce do?

We plan and review plans to improve the commercial centre and maintain the viability of the village as a place for businesses to thrive and serve the needs of the community.

Historically, Cobham Chamber of Commerce organises the Christmas Lights and the 'Extravaganza' event each year. This year we are arranging a 'Cobham at Christmas' event to launch Sunday shopping in the run up to Christmas

1. We are arranging, in effect, a Christmas fête, in the High Street and surrounding area with varied entertainment on a festive theme to attract families to the centre, to support and promote local traders and businesses.
2. We have co-sponsored with CCHT a bid for local authority funding to replace all street lighting in the commercial centre, improving the area as an attractive place to shop
3. We have a prospective bid for funding to enhance the pedestrianisation of Hollyhedge Parade, to improve visual appeal and the amenity of the area
4. We are planning a bid for funding to improve the infrastructure used for the flag and light displays throughout the year, which reinforce the community link with the centre
5. We organise celebration displays – Flags for St George's day, Cobham Heritage Day, etc. to improve the appearance of the commercial centre
6. We are working on a plan for a local bus service to and from the station
7. We review planning applications for the effect on the business community
8. We keep abreast of changing rent levels and support rent review processes
9. We submit evidence to and lobby the Local Authority about the effect of parking control and other issues that affect local business.
10. We liaise with large national Chamber members to harness the strengths they have to support local schemes – from scheme/event sponsorship to fund raising.

So What .... does this mean to me?

Well, if you want to thrive in Cobham, we'd like you to join us.

1. We have a strong voice; Local Authorities listen to Chambers of Commerce, especially those who demonstrate widespread membership of local business.
2. The local community appreciates the 'give back' approach that Cobham Chamber of Commerce demonstrates with events such as Christmas lights, etc.
3. Cobham Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting local trade
4. Membership gives you a voice to shape the business community to support you!

Finally, I hope this letter gives you an introduction to the Cobham Chamber of Commerce, sufficient for you to want to join, or at least come to a meeting. If you would like to discuss this further, we'd be delighted to hear from you.

Best wishes, in business

Alistair Mann                                                          

Chairman   

01932 860009