Penzance Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber continues to be the voice of business in Penzance and the immediate area; we are regularly consulted by Penwith District Council and other organisations and through our representation on numerous committees we continue to put the business case effectively. We continue to have a good working relationship with the Hotels and Restaurants Association and have also established closer links with the Causewayhead Traders Association all of which bodes well for the future.

Whilst our primary concern remains the support of local business the past year has seen our considerable involvement in significant and diverse matters such as regeneration, health facilities, policing and so forth. This continues our belief that all issues which affect the lives of local people also have an impact on business and employment issues.

Whilst we have all been faced with serious and significant financial issues related to the current economic climate, which are likely to continue in the short term, I believe that there are several initiatives with which we have been involved which will give a sound basis to enhance the varied and vibrant retail and business environment that we have in Penzance; namely:

The Penzance Loyalty Card Scheme

The scheme has been a tremendous success although it was launched less than two weeks ago. To date we have issued over 3000 cards to the public and 56 businesses have signed up to the scheme, offering a wide range of benefits to their customers and clients. I have spoken with every business involved in the scheme and many of them report that they have seen an increase in footfall and sales as a result of being involved. An element of the launch day which had a significant positive impact on shoppers and businesses alike was the free parking which was arranged with Penwith District Council and Penzance Town Council, this cost the public purse in the region of £10,000 however it did attract significantly more shoppers to Penzance and is likely to have been cost-effective in the long-term. Free parking is to be repeated on the last Saturday in February and the last Saturday in March and it is hoped that events can be organised in town on these days under the banner of “Shop Penzance”; I will be calling for ideas and volunteers in our normal meeting which immediately follows the AGM.

Farmers Market

Work has reached an advanced stage and it is anticipated that the first market will be held in the car park at the top of Causewayhead at the end of March. It is intended that the market will be held from 9am to 4pm every Friday and this will, I am sure, both attract shoppers into the town and increase trade amongst existing retailers.

Harbour Enhancement

The recent public consultation event attracted over 1100 people and resulted in 71% stating that they recognised the need for the enhancement of the harbour. Whilst the actual design met with 50:50 approval a formal planning application with potentially modified building designs will be submitted within the next couple of weeks. It is considered that this scheme remains vital to the future economy of both Penzance and the Isles of Scilly and I have no doubt that planning will be granted.

Coinagehall Street

A Company has been successful with their tender for the development of the old Vosper’s building in Coinagehall Street. Initial plans show a mixed usage development consisting of apartments, retail outlets and workshops. The project will cost in the region of £20million and will result in a significant improvement of this area which has been derelict for a number of years.

Promenade

Whilst the stability and surfacing of the promenade remain a long-term concern, a couple of projects will go ahead this year which should result in greater usage of this key area coupled with increased trade for the existing businesses. It is planned that a raised area will be constructed for performances and that a shelter will be converted into a coffee/ice cream kiosk, both of which will be near the Alexandra Road end.

Penwith College

The merger of Penwith and Truro colleges along with the multi-million pound development of the Penwith site will not only significantly improve the availability of education in the area but it will also bring University level courses to Penzance. This will decrease the numbers of students having to travel away from Penzance and will also encourage more students to travel to Penzance thereby contributing to the local economy and providing the opportunity for new business.

Summary

There have been many challenges over the past twelve months and significantly more challenges to face in the coming year, especially with the formation of the Unitary Authority. The demise of Penwith District Council is deeply regretted as they have been a tremendous support both to the Chamber and the whole business community; key to the future will be establishing the same working relationship that with have with Penwith District Council with the Unitary Authority which, I anticipate, will require a considerable effort.

In addition we need to work with other business organisations in the town to formulate a plan for the future economy of Penzance which, I am convinced, will require the appointment of a Town Centre Manager.

I consider that, never before, has there been a more necessary time for all businesses to unite to ensure that our voice is heard; to that end I will continue to endeavour to recruit new members to the Chamber and liaise with all organisations to put the business case.

Mike Waters (Chairman 2008/2009)

PENZANCE - THE PLACE TO BE

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