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Graham Brady MP addresses members at Chamber Lunch
The Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce held their 102nd AGM last week where the President, Tony Collier of Milner Boardman agreed to stand for a further year and Sue Aldridge of Adam & Company , Private banking, took up the post of President Elect. The Patron of the Chamber the Mayor of Trafford, Councillor Jane Baugh installed Tony for his second year of office.
The AGM was followed by the New Year lunch held at The Marriott, Manchester Airport and sponsored by Bridging Finance. Vice patron of the Chamber, Graham Brady MP delivered a most informative speech to the members highlighting Britain, Europe and the Coalition Government.
New members were welcomed to the Chamber including Claire Burt of Burt’s Cheese, winner of the recent Local Business Accelerator awards. Since starting to make cheese on her kitchen table in 2009, Claire now supplies 26 outlets including Earle restaurant and Harvey Nichols in Manchester.
Commenting on the event, Tony Collier said, “I am delighted to have been invited to take on the Presidency of the Chamber for a second term. Undoubtedly we are facing challenging times however being part of such an organisation as the Chamber helps businesses not only to survive but also to grow and develop. The Chamber is far more than just a networking organisation; it provides members with invaluable business support and direction. I would urge local businesses that are not already involved to become members. I am proud to be part of this organisation
To view this press release please click here.
News From the Chamber
Copy from Tony Collier
President Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce 17 August 2011
Building a Better Altrincham
At last we have some positive news with plans for the hospital at Railway Street being given the go ahead. At the same time Nikal have signalled their intent to proceed with the Altair development, including a new and permanent ice rink, subject of course to the outcome of the compulsory purchase enquiry in October.
Miller Developments work on the Graftons has now begun and we will soon have a 91 bedroom Travelodge as well as new offices and retail outlets. This, together with the hospital, should see a significant increase in footfall at the Railway Street end of the town which has to be hugely beneficial.
At the other end of town, paving work in the Stamford Quarter will begin in August to add a welcome flourish to the appearance of this key retail area. Also very welcome for the Stamford Quarter is the confirmed letting of 19,000 sq ft to Wilkinson who will open their latest store later this year whilst the new Barclays Bank branch should also open before the turn of the year resulting in the Stamford Quarter being 94% let.
The Chamber is in constant dialogue with Trafford Council and we are aware that no one is becoming complacent just because of this positive news. We, as a Chamber, will continue to work with all stake holders to ensure that the heart of our town is restored and we are aware that there is still much to be done. We welcome any positive contribution from other interested parties and, if you believe that you can help, then please do contact us.
PRESS RELEASE
27 May 2011
The Hale Grill plays host to local businesses
The Hale Grill recently played host to around 50 Chamber members all representing local businesses. The event was another ‘sell out’ as businesses took advantage of the extensive networking opportunities on offer within a relaxed informal environment.
Presentations were given by Hale Grill, Martin Hambleton photography, Paul Mirage of the Independent newspaper and also Susan Leigh of Lifestyle Therapy. A warm welcome was given by the hosts, Hale Grill highlighting the continuing success of the company throughout the Northwest. Hale Grill is part of Blackhouse Grills, which includes brands such as Grill on the Alley and the recently opened Australasia in Manchester city centre. Tasters of the Hale Grill menu were on offer plus those from recently opened Yogberries on Broomfield Lane.
Commenting on the evening, President of the Chamber, Tony Collier said, “Our sincere thanks go to the Hale Grill. We are again delighted to see so many businesses represented and working together not just to benefit their own business but also the area that we serve. Altrincham has some major issues and we at the Chamber continue to lobby both local and national government on behalf of our members. Recently we had some success over the parking rates. Plans have recently been submitted for £19m makeover for Altrincham Interchange and we fully support this. The Grafton centre has been bought by Millers to develop and benefit the town. There are tough times ahead but we must all continue to pull together.” Ends.
For further information:
Marketing Profile, barbara@marketingprofile.co.uk Tel: 07939905412.
The Council are introducing new parking charges to support local businesses, the new prices will come in to effect from 22 April 2011 (changes to conditions also apply).
The new prices are:
- 10p for 1 hour
- 30p for 2 hours *some areas may have a maximum of 2 hours stay
- 70p for 3 hours
- All day charges are £2 on street, car parks £3 (except Regent Road car park which is £6)
For a full list of prices and locations please go to www.trafford.gov.uk/parking
Details of the new tariffs will be displayed on each pay and display machine with up to date information on display in car parks.
Please note that the change of conditions now means that a Penalty Charge Notice may be issued for ‘Meter Feeding’ - that is purchasing an additional ticket to extend the time parked within the bay. A Penalty Charge Notice may also be issued for ‘Returning to bay within one hour’.
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Trafford Council have announced revised parking charges across the borough. Recognising the challenges that businesses are currently facing Trafford Council carried out local consultation. This included assessing the results of a questionnaire carried out by the Chamber representing the views of its members.
The Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce represents local businesses. These include both professional services and retailers. The Chamber membership provides many benefits and business support including representation at both local and national level.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Chairman of the Chamber, Jackie Campbell commented,
“During the consultation directly with Trafford and also through our members, we considered many issues. Attracting business and shoppers into our town centres was paramount. Other areas however that were looked at included dwell time and pay on exit options. We also needed to ensure that Altrincham doesn’t just become a ‘car park’, as commuters head into Manchester. We must support local businesses. As with all local authorities, Trafford face major cut backs this year and we thank them for looking at this area and for coming up with some ongoing improvements and for agreeing to review pay on exit options when funding permits.”
For further information:
barbara@marketingprofile.co.uk
Tel: 07939905412
Parking charges across Trafford are to be slashed to help boost town centres. Visitors will soon be able to park for just 10p for 1 hour in all of the Councils car parks and on-street charging areas.
Charges to be introduced are 10p for 1 hour, 30p for 2 hours and 70p for 3 hours parking.
The announcement follows a three week public consultation which received responses from residents and local businesses confirmin g how the Council could improve parking issues to attract more visitors.
More than 300 people responded to the online consultation, and comments were also received from user groups such as the Altrincham and Sale Chamber of Commerce, town centre partnerships, shopmobility, taxi representatives and the Altrincham Traders and Residents group. Feedback showed consultees were in favour of a low cost or free initial charge to encourage people to make better use of the town centres and that all day parking prices in off-street car parks should be increased slightly to £3 to enable the lower short-term tariffs to be introduced. The only exception to this is Regent Road car park, recognised as attracting commuters to park there all day, which will be £6.
There are further plans to prioritise additional improvements to enhance the visitor experience including; an "iapp" for drivers to download information showing the current availability in car parks in Altrinc ham as well as clearer town centre access signs. The option to pay for parking by debit or credit cards will also be introduced. Feedback also confirmed the need for additional cycle parking facilities to be made available in town centres. Clearer information to identify the numerous areas of free limited parking facilities currently available (short and long stay) as well as disabled facilities and Shopmobility assistance will also be provided.
Leader of Trafford Council Matt Colledge said: "Slashing the cost to park is a clear indication of the Council's commitment to support our town centres. Feedback from our temporary free after three measure showed that visitors to our towns wanted the flexibility to park cheaply at anytime of the day and I believe these large reductions achieve this. At a time when many Councils are looking to increase parking charges I am pleased that we are able to cut charges to encourage people in to our towns."
Cllr Alan Mi tchell, Executive Member for Highways and Transportation said: "We have listened to our residents, local businesses and user groups and, due to the additional half a million pounds set aside in the budget, are able to introduce these measures which we believe will be a real incentive for people to make use of our town centres for their everyday needs and support our current traders and help to attract new ones."
Changes will start to be introduced as soon as possible with the change in parking charges expected to be made from July. Further details will be provided.
The cost of the measure is £500,000 per year and has been included in the councils budget plans for the next 3 years, indicating it is not a short term measure.
Enquiries about this news release should be directed to newsdesk@trafford.gov.uk
www.trafford.gov.uk/news/press/details.asp?ID=2279
9 February 2011
Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce held their Annual General Meeting last week at Mere Golf & Country Club. The occasion was supported by Chamber members, the Mayor and Mayoress of Trafford and Graham Brady MP. The event marked a landmark in the history of the Chamber, as Tony Collier of Milner Boardman Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers in Altrincham became the 100th President.
Handing ‘Over the Baton’, was the outgoing President Nathan Evans, of Fathom IT – a veteran of two marathons and two half marathons. The incoming President, Tony Collier has run four marathons in aid of The Children’s Adventure Farm Trust. Commenting on his appointment Tony said, “I am delighted to take up the role of President and becoming the 100th President makes it even more special. I plan to continue the Chamber’s work in pressing for change and progress, but if our town centres are to return to former glories there is a great need for speedier decision making and intervention at the highest level. I urge local businesses to join the Chamber and let us all work together and really drive our businesses forward.”
Tony is managing partner of Milner Boardman chartered accountants - one of South Manchester’s fastest growing practices. Their belief in local investment includes the near £1 million offices in Altrincham Business Park that they acquired four years ago to accommodate the firm’s expansion.
A member of Styal Running Club, Tony’s marathons began four years ago, at the age of 50, with the Amsterdam event. Last year he ran more than 1,600 miles in 16 UK races as well as the Budapest Marathon. And later this year he hopes to beat his best time of three hours 23 minutes in October’s Chicago Marathon.
For further information: barbara@marketingprofile.co.uk Tel: 07939 905412
15 February 2011
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The Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce held their New Year lunch at Mere Golf & Country Club. The event was sponsored by Bridging Finance and the guest speaker was vice patron, Graham Brady MP. A special welcome was given to the newly appointed President of the Chamber, Tony Collier, MD of Milner Boardman Limited who becomes the 100th President.
Almost 100 members attended the event which provided guests with opportunities to network within a relaxed environment. The Chamber remains focused on supporting businesses and providing them with unrivalled opportunities. Chris Baguley, MD of Bridging Finance addressed the audience highlighting how the Company has become the first port of call for clients of the professional sector who need quick access to funds on a short term basis.
Guest speaker Graham Brady MP delivered a speech on ‘2011 – The Sign of Things to Come’ covering both local and national political issues. A question and answer session followed.
The lunch was well received from regular members plus several new businesses were also represented. Commenting on the lunch, Emma Duckworth, Business Development Manager for the Chamber said, “We are always pleased to welcome long standing members to our events, however it is also encouraging to see many new businesses joining the Chamber. I would urge those who are not yet members to get in touch and to hear just how the local Chamber can support them.”
www.altrinchamchamber.co.uk
Image 1: Tony Collier, Jon Buckley, Chris Baguley, Graham Brady
Image 2: Graham Brady, Chris Weetman, Sue Weighell, Perul Mehta, Martin Duff, Emma Duckworth
For further information: barbara@marketingprofile.co.uk Tel: 07939905412
Today, Monday 17 January has been labelled ‘Blue Monday’, the worst Monday of the year. This is certainly not the case in the Stamford Quarter, Altrincham as Clinton Cards on George Street have just extended their lease for a further 5 years.
Clinton Cards have been in Altrincham for 9 years and offer a range of goods including cards, flowers, gifts, soft toys, party packs, invitations, gift wrap and more. Trading figures continue to be good and the company have taken the decision to remain in Altrincham.
Commenting on today’s news, Ken Hutchings, MD of McCafferty Asset Management, the Company responsible for managing the Stamford Quarter, added, ‘We are delighted that Clinton Cards have confirmed a new 5 year lease. We strongly believe that where possible people like to support their local town and to ‘Shop Local’. Here at the Stamford Quarter, we are endeavouring to attract a greater choice of stores and also to support those already here. Over the Christmas period we have certainly seen an increase in visitors to Altrincham and we hope that this continues through 2011.”
Savills are letting agents on the Stamford Quarter.
For further information: MarketingProfile, barbara@marketingprofile.co.uk
Sunday Parking in Altrincham– Only 50p!
From 06 February, all day parking on a Sunday at the Stamford Quarter, Altrincham will be reduced to just 50p. In addition the Management Company for the Stamford Quarter have agreed to hold all the other daily rates at 2010 prices despite the recent VAT increase.
The Stamford Quarter car park is ideally situated in the centre of Altrincham and provides a 700 space multi-storey car park. The car park is a major part of the shopping centre development and boasts a Park Mark Award from the Secured Car Park scheme. Attractive rates are offered for shoppers and also contract rates for businesses.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Centre Manager, David Wightman said, ‘We are continually looking at ways to attract visitors into the town centre. As the choice of retail units continues to develop we believe that people look for the convenience of shopping locally. The daily car parking rates are very competitive. We charge £1 for up to one hour and £2 for up to 3 hours. Low cost long stay parking rates are also available. This special rate of just 50p for all day parking on a Sunday we hope will encourage even more shoppers to visit Altrincham as the choice of shops continues to expand.”
For further information: MarketingProfile, barbara@marketingprofile.co.uk
Tel: 07939905412
PRESS RELEASE
Year starts with mixed news for Altrincham
10 January 2011
Towards the end of 2010, the Stamford Quarter, Altrincham announced plans from Barclays to open a £2 million flagship branch. Work is now progressing well with the offices due to open in the spring. This news provides a fantastic boost for the town. Today Costa Coffee has announced plans to open a coffee shop within the Stamford Quarter, Altrincham. For a number of years they have operated from a concession within Waterstones. Following the success of this outlet they have taken the decision to expand further. Next month will see the opening of Costa Coffee at 28 George Street (previously Centro).
This positive news for Altrincham coincides with disappointing news for the town as HMV closed their doors on Saturday. Regrettably despite the stores excellent Christmas trading figures, Altrincham could not escape falling victim to the recent National decision taken by HMV to close 40 HMV branches across the Country.
Ken Hutchings, MD of McCafferty Asset Management who manage the Stamford Quarter commented, “The Stamford Quarter continues to develop and expand as we work hard on attracting a retail mix. It is indeed most unfortunate to see HMV close as since coming into the town, their sales have been strong. Regrettably HMV as a group have been experiencing challenging trading conditions and national cuts have had to be made. We are confident that in 2011 we will attract more businesses into Altrincham.”
For further information:
Marketing profile, barbara@marketingprofile.co.uk
Tel: 07939905412
16 November 2010
Business Showcase event again proves a real success
Last week saw the Business Showcase event organised by the Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce and hosted by Altrincham Grammar School for Boys. The event attracted over 50 businesses and was sponsored by Business Link North West (BLNW).
Exhibitors ranged from accountancy and solicitors’ practices to photographers and IT experts and from HR consultants and jewellery representatives, to airlines, further education and wealth management experts and many more. Also attending the events was the sponsor BLNW who provided start up support, Trafford College who highlighted training and representatives from Altrincham Grammar School for boys.
Chief Executive of the Chamber Barbara Hallwood explained, “These showcase events provide the ideal opportunity for businesses to network and to really raise their company profile. Visitors benefit from invaluable business information and learn more about the excellent array of services that are available within our area and beyond. Local restaurant, Swadesh provided excellent Indian tasters as did Hale Grill who welcomed visitors with mulled wine and mince pies. We had a fabulous number of guests attending the evening and the feedback was excellent. Thank you to everybody for their support. The next showcase is planned for March 2011.”
