Orpington 1st Business Forum is for local businesses and community groups to keep abreast of developments and issues which concern them - it took over from Orpington Business Forum (OBF) in May 2015
For information about membership, contact Chandra Sharma Website: www.orpington1st.co.uk Follow on Twitter @Orpington1st
The Orpington 1st BID (Business Improvement District) Team: (click on link for full information)
Next meeting: Monday 11 January 2016
Previous meetings:
Monday 19 October
Monday 13 July (AGM)
Inaugural meeting 18 May 2015
Previous meetings:
Monday 19 October
Monday 13 July (AGM)
Inaugural meeting 18 May 2015
Minutes of previous OBF meetings:
13 January 2015 (report of meeting in blog below)
11 November 2014 (not published) 9 September 2014 8 July 2014 (not available) 13 May 2014 (not published - report of meeting in blog below) 11 March 2014 (not published) 14 January 2014 (not published) 13 November 2013 (not published) 10 July 2013 8 May 2013 13 March 2013 9 January 2013 |
11 December 2012
9 October 2012 14 August 2012 (report of meeting in blog below) 12 June 2012 17 April 2012 (not available) 13 December 2011 11 October 2011 16 August 2011 14 June 2011 |
13 January 2015
Councillor William Huntington-Thresher summarised the latest developments occurring in the town centre:
- Health Centre (Berkeley Homes) and Hotel (Premier Inn) likely to be considered at the next Development Control Committee on 10 February. The hotel will take 10 months to
build.
- Orpington Station car park - lower level opened today and upper level to open in next couple of weeks
- Bromley Museum - identified as a savings measure - more information will be disclosed at the Renewal and Recreation Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee on 29
January
Sharon Baldwin, Orpington 1st Operations Director gave an update on activities and progress:
- Parking review: business survey April 2014 made a number of requests, the majority of which will be implemented by the end of March.
- Period of free parking is still under discussion but is unlikely to happen before the election.
- All loading bays are free after 6:30pm.
- Small businesses can register with Orpington 1st and get a parking disc to be able to use loading bays with non-commercial vehicles.
- Christmas events: Very successful and well attended. More variety on the stage is planned for Christmas 2015. (Video to be posted later this week)
- Odeon Cinema: Building due for completion by the end of May. Fit-out will take till October. Hoping to open with the launch of a blockbuster film, such as the new Bond movie.
- Love Orpington Week: Orpington Business Show 19 February - launching Welcome Pack for new businesses. Orpington's Finest 2014 awards will be announced at the evening
event.
- Wedding Fair on 22 February with fashion shows and lots of stalls
- Bromley College (Orpington Campus): BR6 Restaurant opening on 20 February and will be available as a community space when not in use. Catering college will be the first in
the UK.
- City Car Club: New signage. Car outside the Village Hall - anyone can use it and return it, just paying a very reasonable fee for the distance travelled. For the first year, it will be
half price for residents and free for Orpington 1st businesses.
- Safer Neighbourhood report: There was an isolated road rage incident by Orpington Memorial but this is a very rare occurrence. The high street team mainly deal with
shoplifting,
ASB and legal highs issues.
- £3,000 is available for any business wishing to improve its broadband but no businesses have taken up this offer
- Allergen Law - course at the Enterprise Hub on 16 February for food businesses to learn about the new law.
- High Street news: The Sewing Shop has ceased trading but it is hoped to establish a similar shop elsewhere in the high street.
- Harry's Allsorts - new stationery shop at the top end
- New restaurant opening in the next 2 weeks where Sony was
- New restaurant opening in the 'Bed' shop opposite the entrance to the Walnuts
- Negotiations have fallen down regarding opening a champagne bar where Gesti was but it is hoped that a different location can be found
- Churchill Homes opening on Friday 16 January
There was a discussion about the future of the Forum. Some of the issues raised:
- concerns about low attendance at meetings
- expectations of members
- possibility of attracting a wider membership - community groups, other businesses
- frequency of meetings
Margot Rohan, Orpington Community
Councillor William Huntington-Thresher summarised the latest developments occurring in the town centre:
- Health Centre (Berkeley Homes) and Hotel (Premier Inn) likely to be considered at the next Development Control Committee on 10 February. The hotel will take 10 months to
build.
- Orpington Station car park - lower level opened today and upper level to open in next couple of weeks
- Bromley Museum - identified as a savings measure - more information will be disclosed at the Renewal and Recreation Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee on 29
January
Sharon Baldwin, Orpington 1st Operations Director gave an update on activities and progress:
- Parking review: business survey April 2014 made a number of requests, the majority of which will be implemented by the end of March.
- Period of free parking is still under discussion but is unlikely to happen before the election.
- All loading bays are free after 6:30pm.
- Small businesses can register with Orpington 1st and get a parking disc to be able to use loading bays with non-commercial vehicles.
- Christmas events: Very successful and well attended. More variety on the stage is planned for Christmas 2015. (Video to be posted later this week)
- Odeon Cinema: Building due for completion by the end of May. Fit-out will take till October. Hoping to open with the launch of a blockbuster film, such as the new Bond movie.
- Love Orpington Week: Orpington Business Show 19 February - launching Welcome Pack for new businesses. Orpington's Finest 2014 awards will be announced at the evening
event.
- Wedding Fair on 22 February with fashion shows and lots of stalls
- Bromley College (Orpington Campus): BR6 Restaurant opening on 20 February and will be available as a community space when not in use. Catering college will be the first in
the UK.
- City Car Club: New signage. Car outside the Village Hall - anyone can use it and return it, just paying a very reasonable fee for the distance travelled. For the first year, it will be
half price for residents and free for Orpington 1st businesses.
- Safer Neighbourhood report: There was an isolated road rage incident by Orpington Memorial but this is a very rare occurrence. The high street team mainly deal with
shoplifting,
ASB and legal highs issues.
- £3,000 is available for any business wishing to improve its broadband but no businesses have taken up this offer
- Allergen Law - course at the Enterprise Hub on 16 February for food businesses to learn about the new law.
- High Street news: The Sewing Shop has ceased trading but it is hoped to establish a similar shop elsewhere in the high street.
- Harry's Allsorts - new stationery shop at the top end
- New restaurant opening in the next 2 weeks where Sony was
- New restaurant opening in the 'Bed' shop opposite the entrance to the Walnuts
- Negotiations have fallen down regarding opening a champagne bar where Gesti was but it is hoped that a different location can be found
- Churchill Homes opening on Friday 16 January
There was a discussion about the future of the Forum. Some of the issues raised:
- concerns about low attendance at meetings
- expectations of members
- possibility of attracting a wider membership - community groups, other businesses
- frequency of meetings
Margot Rohan, Orpington Community
13 May 2014
AGM: The Chair, Frank Levett, summarised a busy year for the OBF, with Orpington 1st, the BID company, becoming a reality and the OBF providing a forum for feeding ideas into it. The OBF website has been amended and updated.
AGM: The Chair, Frank Levett, summarised a busy year for the OBF, with Orpington 1st, the BID company, becoming a reality and the OBF providing a forum for feeding ideas into it. The OBF website has been amended and updated.
Elections: There was just one nomination for each committee position, so all were elected unopposed, as follows:
Chair: Frank Levett - Proposed by Chandra Sharma and Seconded by Margot Rohan Vice-Chair: Chandra Sharma - Proposed by Frank Levett and Seconded by Margot Rohan Treasurer: Phil Westley (The Gift Outlet) - Proposed by Chandra Sharma and Seconded by Frank Levett Secretary: Shaun Gunning (Bromley College) - Proposed by Chandra Sharma and Seconded by Frank Levett Honorary Legal Advisor: Vernon Hadida (Thomas Dunton Solicitors) - Proposed by Frank Levett and Seconded by Danny Moss Honorary Auditors: Keith Witall & Co Other committee members: Danny Moss (DS Moss Jewelers), Marie McVey (McDonalds Orpington) and Mark Wildi (Baxter & Co Accountants & Tax Advisors). The general meeting followed the AGM: Sharon Baldwin, the BID Operations Director, highlighted the programme of events, starting on 1 April, with the tongue-in-cheek 'laboratory' - part of an arts programme, to capture some of the success stories in Orpington, to get the press interested. (See 'Sweet Smell of Success' on the Orpington 1st website.) |
The Inside Out Project - photo portraits of 10 students with interesting stories - is up on hoardings in Walnuts Shopping Centre. This is the first stage of the project. Portraits of shopowners could be the next one.
The World .Cup was launched in Orpington with a Sony video filmed in the Walnuts. This proved very successful, with Sony staff commenting that Orpington has 'an interesting tapestry of people'. They will now consider Orpington for future promotions.
At Easter the Buff Orpington chicken put in an appearance in the high street, with chicks for children to feed.
Official footfall figures have shown a 16% increase in the high street but this needs to be converted to increased spend.
The 'sheds' in the Walnuts are for theme markets, to complement the existing market. The aim is to attract people to the market from a wider area. A couple of the companies trialled and area now permanent market traders, 3 days a week.
Future events include:
Golf Day on 6 June at Chelsfield Lakes
Armed Forces Day on 15 June
Father's Day on 15 June - with folk music, Irish dancing, military models and fair rides. Money raised in aid of the British Legion.
Cray Festival on 5 July - supported by Bromley Council and other local businesses - commemorating history, arts and heritage. It is a FREE event, relying on sponsorship. This year has a science fiction theme, with a Tardis outside Barclays Bank on 13 June. 'Dance of the Time Machines' is a celebration of H G Wells - two FREE shows but with limited tickets.
Priory Live on 16 August - another FREE musical event with one big music stage.
Christmas Lights switch on - 20 November
Parking Review: 240 surveys were issued across the whole high street. 40 were returned and a number of conversations on the topic were noted. The recommendations are being considered by Bromley Council. The aim is to ensure parking provision satisfies both businesses and customers and that enforcement has a customer friendly approach. Complaints have been made about the aggressive attitude and speed with which tickets are issued when people are loading or unloading.
The World .Cup was launched in Orpington with a Sony video filmed in the Walnuts. This proved very successful, with Sony staff commenting that Orpington has 'an interesting tapestry of people'. They will now consider Orpington for future promotions.
At Easter the Buff Orpington chicken put in an appearance in the high street, with chicks for children to feed.
Official footfall figures have shown a 16% increase in the high street but this needs to be converted to increased spend.
The 'sheds' in the Walnuts are for theme markets, to complement the existing market. The aim is to attract people to the market from a wider area. A couple of the companies trialled and area now permanent market traders, 3 days a week.
Future events include:
Golf Day on 6 June at Chelsfield Lakes
Armed Forces Day on 15 June
Father's Day on 15 June - with folk music, Irish dancing, military models and fair rides. Money raised in aid of the British Legion.
Cray Festival on 5 July - supported by Bromley Council and other local businesses - commemorating history, arts and heritage. It is a FREE event, relying on sponsorship. This year has a science fiction theme, with a Tardis outside Barclays Bank on 13 June. 'Dance of the Time Machines' is a celebration of H G Wells - two FREE shows but with limited tickets.
Priory Live on 16 August - another FREE musical event with one big music stage.
Christmas Lights switch on - 20 November
Parking Review: 240 surveys were issued across the whole high street. 40 were returned and a number of conversations on the topic were noted. The recommendations are being considered by Bromley Council. The aim is to ensure parking provision satisfies both businesses and customers and that enforcement has a customer friendly approach. Complaints have been made about the aggressive attitude and speed with which tickets are issued when people are loading or unloading.
Empty Properties: Sharon Baldwin is in regular contact with agents. There is a 10% vacancy rate but half are under offer or in negotiation with solicitors. Temporary use - pop-up shops, test trade etc - is being looked at.
Business Enterprise Zone: 14-15 offices to engage with young entrepreneurs, such as supporting women back into work after maternity leave. Public Toilets: They are now being kept clean and tidy but some people are misusing them. New signage is to go up and more robust fittings and mirrors are being installed. Community Day in June: To clean up private alleyways Police Report: The cluster teams have changed shift patterns and they are now fixed and can only be changed in special circumstances. There are fewer meetings and more on street patrolling. Stop and searches have decreased youth ASB and there has been a reduction in burglary. Margot Rohan, Orpington Community |
29 October - Update on the changing face of the OBF
The next meeting of the Orpington Business Forum will be held on Wednesday 13th November 2013 at the Orpington Campus of Bromley College commencing
6pm.
This is the first formal meeting of the OBF since July and everyone is encouraged to attend. Please help by booking your place online.
The OBF is changing and is continuing to maintain its independence by being a communication channel to the Orpington 1st BID, the Local Authority and the Police. New leaflets are currently being designed for the OBF and there is an opportunity for one advertiser on the back panel - please email [email protected] if you are interested in sponsoring this. There will be over 2,000 tri-fold leaflets produced, so it will give you an opportunity to put your name directly in front of local businesses. Due to time, it is necessary for anyone who is interested to get in contact by 6pm on Wednesday 30th October. This will be strictly on a first come, first served basis.
At the meeting, plans for the 'White Christmas' event on 20th November will be announced, as reported in a recent edition of the News Shopper: 23 October 2013
Sharon Baldwin, the new full time BID Manager (previously in charge of District Centre Managers at Croydon), will also reveal her plans for the town centre.
Rick Fuggle of Aegle UK has advised some hikes in building insurance, due to 'the environmental agency deciding we are now in a flood risk area'. Rick suggests that 'all businesses shop around and, if their landlord fixes the deal, tell them to remonstrate with them re the rate'
Finally, please find attached a vacancy at The Walnuts Leisure Centre - Sally Callaghan, the General Manager, states: 'The important thing to note is the candidate does NOT need to have the NPLQ qualification as, for the right person, we would pay for this training'.
The next meeting of the Orpington Business Forum will be held on Wednesday 13th November 2013 at the Orpington Campus of Bromley College commencing
6pm.
This is the first formal meeting of the OBF since July and everyone is encouraged to attend. Please help by booking your place online.
The OBF is changing and is continuing to maintain its independence by being a communication channel to the Orpington 1st BID, the Local Authority and the Police. New leaflets are currently being designed for the OBF and there is an opportunity for one advertiser on the back panel - please email [email protected] if you are interested in sponsoring this. There will be over 2,000 tri-fold leaflets produced, so it will give you an opportunity to put your name directly in front of local businesses. Due to time, it is necessary for anyone who is interested to get in contact by 6pm on Wednesday 30th October. This will be strictly on a first come, first served basis.
At the meeting, plans for the 'White Christmas' event on 20th November will be announced, as reported in a recent edition of the News Shopper: 23 October 2013
Sharon Baldwin, the new full time BID Manager (previously in charge of District Centre Managers at Croydon), will also reveal her plans for the town centre.
Rick Fuggle of Aegle UK has advised some hikes in building insurance, due to 'the environmental agency deciding we are now in a flood risk area'. Rick suggests that 'all businesses shop around and, if their landlord fixes the deal, tell them to remonstrate with them re the rate'
Finally, please find attached a vacancy at The Walnuts Leisure Centre - Sally Callaghan, the General Manager, states: 'The important thing to note is the candidate does NOT need to have the NPLQ qualification as, for the right person, we would pay for this training'.
18 September - news about Orpington High Street works
Garry Warner, Head of Highway Network Management at the London Borough of Bromley, has advised the OBF that Conways are proposing to complete the work on the repaired raised areas of the High Street, which involves coating these with a buff colour material, next week. The dates suggested are Monday and Tuesday nights – 23 and 24 September. The idea is for them to start at 10pm and run through until 6am the following morning – so hopefully the works would be complete by 6am Weds 25 Sept. They are likely to start on
the section between Station Road and Homefield Rise on the first night and then from Homefield Rise to Chislehurst Road the second. It will involve road closures for the times suggested, but all parts of the High Street will be accessible (as last time) on foot.
The London Borough of Bromley wishes to consult with members of the OBF, the BID and other local businesses (particularly those likely to be trading after 10pm) and would be grateful if you could let me know the response to this proposal as soon as possible. Bearing in mind this work does need to be done to finalise the improvements to the High Street – it is suggested that this is probably the least disruptive time for this to take place. However, please let Chandra Sharma know your views or any queries about the proposed works.
The plan is to get letters warning of the works and road closures to all businesses and residents in the vicinity by the end of the week.
Apologies that this will be quite short notice but the timescale is tight because Conways are only able to schedule the work in once they know the weather forecast is going to be favourable for the work.
Garry Warner, Head of Highway Network Management at the London Borough of Bromley, has advised the OBF that Conways are proposing to complete the work on the repaired raised areas of the High Street, which involves coating these with a buff colour material, next week. The dates suggested are Monday and Tuesday nights – 23 and 24 September. The idea is for them to start at 10pm and run through until 6am the following morning – so hopefully the works would be complete by 6am Weds 25 Sept. They are likely to start on
the section between Station Road and Homefield Rise on the first night and then from Homefield Rise to Chislehurst Road the second. It will involve road closures for the times suggested, but all parts of the High Street will be accessible (as last time) on foot.
The London Borough of Bromley wishes to consult with members of the OBF, the BID and other local businesses (particularly those likely to be trading after 10pm) and would be grateful if you could let me know the response to this proposal as soon as possible. Bearing in mind this work does need to be done to finalise the improvements to the High Street – it is suggested that this is probably the least disruptive time for this to take place. However, please let Chandra Sharma know your views or any queries about the proposed works.
The plan is to get letters warning of the works and road closures to all businesses and residents in the vicinity by the end of the week.
Apologies that this will be quite short notice but the timescale is tight because Conways are only able to schedule the work in once they know the weather forecast is going to be favourable for the work.
4 September 2013 - REMINDER
Orpington's Finest 2013 competition will be ending this Saturday 7th September at 5pm. Please help us by taking your completed cards to the Library by Monday morning, 9th September so that we have time to count all the votes! There is still time for online votes to be received via Orpington's Finest, so please encourage your customers to
vote for you as it is a very close call at the moment.
Orpington's Finest 2013 Gala Awards
This Orpington's Finest 2013 Gala Awards ceremony is being held immediately after the Orpington 1st AGM on Wednesday 11th September 2013 commencing 6pm at the Orpington Village Hall, 311 High Street, Orpington. Please make a note of this very important date in your calendar - Invitation cards, as per the attached, have been hand
delivered to all businesses in the BID area. Please let me know if you haven't received your invitation.
This year, the Awards, sponsored by Orpington 1st and a number of other Partners will be bigger and better than before with all the winners being presented with Awards & Certificates by the Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Ernest Noad, together with some great publicity. Food & refreshments & some entertainment will be provided courtesy of our sponsors, together with a bar!
Orpington 1st BID
This is a reminder that all businesses in the BID levy area must return their BID membership forms to the Orpington 1st office at The Walnuts Shopping Centre, High St Orpington BR6 0TW.
Full details are in the Orpington 1st Newsletter which was hand delivered to all businesses in the High Street last week. It is essential that you are a member of the BID in order to vote in your new BID board at the AGM on 11th September.
Limited nominations for BID board directors have been received. Although the time has passed for nominations, please urgently email Martin Price, the current BID Board Chairman, at [email protected], if you wish to stand or would like to nominate anyone. If sufficient nominations are not received, then the current BID board will be invited to re-stand for the posts. For your information, the current BID board Directors are:
- Martin Price
- Sia Bodbin
- Andy Andrews
- Chandra Sharma
New events management company
A marketing company, JWML, has been selected to plan and execute some exciting events over the next 12 months, starting with the Christmas light switch on Wednesday 20th November. All businesses will be invited to take part in this important event.
The BID board has also appointed a new BID Manager - details to follow shortly, as we are just awaiting the acceptance of the offer.
Both of these are really exciting news for Orpington - the work to regenerate the High Street and bring back some of lost Customers begins!
Orpington's Finest 2013 competition will be ending this Saturday 7th September at 5pm. Please help us by taking your completed cards to the Library by Monday morning, 9th September so that we have time to count all the votes! There is still time for online votes to be received via Orpington's Finest, so please encourage your customers to
vote for you as it is a very close call at the moment.
Orpington's Finest 2013 Gala Awards
This Orpington's Finest 2013 Gala Awards ceremony is being held immediately after the Orpington 1st AGM on Wednesday 11th September 2013 commencing 6pm at the Orpington Village Hall, 311 High Street, Orpington. Please make a note of this very important date in your calendar - Invitation cards, as per the attached, have been hand
delivered to all businesses in the BID area. Please let me know if you haven't received your invitation.
This year, the Awards, sponsored by Orpington 1st and a number of other Partners will be bigger and better than before with all the winners being presented with Awards & Certificates by the Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Ernest Noad, together with some great publicity. Food & refreshments & some entertainment will be provided courtesy of our sponsors, together with a bar!
Orpington 1st BID
This is a reminder that all businesses in the BID levy area must return their BID membership forms to the Orpington 1st office at The Walnuts Shopping Centre, High St Orpington BR6 0TW.
Full details are in the Orpington 1st Newsletter which was hand delivered to all businesses in the High Street last week. It is essential that you are a member of the BID in order to vote in your new BID board at the AGM on 11th September.
Limited nominations for BID board directors have been received. Although the time has passed for nominations, please urgently email Martin Price, the current BID Board Chairman, at [email protected], if you wish to stand or would like to nominate anyone. If sufficient nominations are not received, then the current BID board will be invited to re-stand for the posts. For your information, the current BID board Directors are:
- Martin Price
- Sia Bodbin
- Andy Andrews
- Chandra Sharma
New events management company
A marketing company, JWML, has been selected to plan and execute some exciting events over the next 12 months, starting with the Christmas light switch on Wednesday 20th November. All businesses will be invited to take part in this important event.
The BID board has also appointed a new BID Manager - details to follow shortly, as we are just awaiting the acceptance of the offer.
Both of these are really exciting news for Orpington - the work to regenerate the High Street and bring back some of lost Customers begins!
21 August 2013 - Orpington's Finest 2013 Gala Awards
All OBF members & colleagues are invited to the Orpington's Finest 2013 Gala Awards ceremony which is being held immediately after the Orpington 1st AGM
on Wednesday 11th September 2013 commencing 6pm at the Orpington Village Hall, 311 High Street, Orpington.
Please make a note of this very important date in your calendar - Invitation cards will be hand delivered to all businesses in the BID
area over the next couple of days.
This year, the Awards, sponsored by Orpington 1st and a number of other Partners will be bigger and better than before with all the winners being presented with Awards & Certificates together with some great publicity.
Food & refreshments will be provided courtesy of our sponsors, together with a bar!
The event itinerary will be:
All OBF members & colleagues are invited to the Orpington's Finest 2013 Gala Awards ceremony which is being held immediately after the Orpington 1st AGM
on Wednesday 11th September 2013 commencing 6pm at the Orpington Village Hall, 311 High Street, Orpington.
Please make a note of this very important date in your calendar - Invitation cards will be hand delivered to all businesses in the BID
area over the next couple of days.
This year, the Awards, sponsored by Orpington 1st and a number of other Partners will be bigger and better than before with all the winners being presented with Awards & Certificates together with some great publicity.
Food & refreshments will be provided courtesy of our sponsors, together with a bar!
The event itinerary will be:
The competition this year is fierce with a greater number of businesses taking part.
It is still not too late to ask your Customers to vote for you, which they can do by completing the postcards issued, via the Orpington Magazine, the Biggin Hill News and, of course, online at http://www.orpington.towntalk.co.uk/shopping/orpingtons-finest/.
Orpington 1st BID
All businesses in the BID levy area must return their BID membership forms to the Orpington 1st office at The Walnuts Shopping Centre, High St Orpington BR6 0TW.
Full details are in the attached Orpington 1st Newsletter which was hand delivered to all businesses in the High Street last week. Please let me know if you have not received a hard copy of this. It is essential that you are a member of the BID in order to vote in your new BID board at the AGM on 11th September.
Please note that BID members wishing to stand for election to the BID board should email Martin Price, the current BID Board Chairman at [email protected] by 5pm on 28th August 2013.
If you have any questions with regards to the above, please email Chandra Sharma.
It is still not too late to ask your Customers to vote for you, which they can do by completing the postcards issued, via the Orpington Magazine, the Biggin Hill News and, of course, online at http://www.orpington.towntalk.co.uk/shopping/orpingtons-finest/.
Orpington 1st BID
All businesses in the BID levy area must return their BID membership forms to the Orpington 1st office at The Walnuts Shopping Centre, High St Orpington BR6 0TW.
Full details are in the attached Orpington 1st Newsletter which was hand delivered to all businesses in the High Street last week. Please let me know if you have not received a hard copy of this. It is essential that you are a member of the BID in order to vote in your new BID board at the AGM on 11th September.
Please note that BID members wishing to stand for election to the BID board should email Martin Price, the current BID Board Chairman at [email protected] by 5pm on 28th August 2013.
If you have any questions with regards to the above, please email Chandra Sharma.
8 July 2013 - Message from Chandra Sharma:
Orpington 1st have recruited an interim BID Manager on a part time basis whilst the selection of the full time BID Manager takes place. This role fills a void since the departure of Cheryl Curr from the Town. Naz Choudhury is joining Orpington 1st today and will be present at the OBF meeting on Wednesday to explain his new role. Naz is a very experienced businessman and has some great ideas for the town. Orpington 1st has also put out to tender creating an exciting new marketing plan for the Town.
For anyone interested in applying, the briefing can be downloaded here.
It is with great sadness that I have to advise you of the passing away of Michael Rochford of Orpington Coins & Medals whose funeral was held today. Michael was one of the key members of the OBF in the early days. Michael worked with Lisa Hambridge on the Street Cleansing group and helped to achieve some great results. Our thoughts go to Michael's family and friends.
Orpington 1st have recruited an interim BID Manager on a part time basis whilst the selection of the full time BID Manager takes place. This role fills a void since the departure of Cheryl Curr from the Town. Naz Choudhury is joining Orpington 1st today and will be present at the OBF meeting on Wednesday to explain his new role. Naz is a very experienced businessman and has some great ideas for the town. Orpington 1st has also put out to tender creating an exciting new marketing plan for the Town.
For anyone interested in applying, the briefing can be downloaded here.
It is with great sadness that I have to advise you of the passing away of Michael Rochford of Orpington Coins & Medals whose funeral was held today. Michael was one of the key members of the OBF in the early days. Michael worked with Lisa Hambridge on the Street Cleansing group and helped to achieve some great results. Our thoughts go to Michael's family and friends.
3 July 2013 - Message from Chandra Sharma:
The initial BID bills have gone out and are due for payment - come and find out how the BID is planning to spend your money. It is imperative that local businesses make their voice heard so that the BID board take note of your issues. The OBF is there to represent your views, so it is in your interests to attend.
Next Wednesday also sees the launch of the Orpington's Finest competition - the categories have been changed slightly this year and it will be more inclusive than in previous years. Be the first to come and collect your voting cards and get a head start!
Have you been affected by the recent Road works? If so, find out what the OBF is doing on your behalf to get some redress from the contractors.
It is imperative that as many businesses attend and raise their concerns, so please make every effort to come to next week's meeting. Please do not forget to invite your immediate business neighbours and any new shops that have opened in Town.
The initial BID bills have gone out and are due for payment - come and find out how the BID is planning to spend your money. It is imperative that local businesses make their voice heard so that the BID board take note of your issues. The OBF is there to represent your views, so it is in your interests to attend.
Next Wednesday also sees the launch of the Orpington's Finest competition - the categories have been changed slightly this year and it will be more inclusive than in previous years. Be the first to come and collect your voting cards and get a head start!
Have you been affected by the recent Road works? If so, find out what the OBF is doing on your behalf to get some redress from the contractors.
It is imperative that as many businesses attend and raise their concerns, so please make every effort to come to next week's meeting. Please do not forget to invite your immediate business neighbours and any new shops that have opened in Town.
10 May 2013 - Message from Chandra Sharma:
The BID still needs additional theme group members for all of the 4 groups, but in particular the First for Access group.
The groups, highlighted in the presentation are as follows:
- First for Customers
- First for Look & Feel
- First for Access
- First for Business
Please email Chandra Sharma should you wish to be involved. By joining one of these groups, you may be able to influence the BID's priorities and expenditure, so please be a part of this - after all, it is your Town!
The meeting also heard from Hannah Jackson and Elizabeth with regards to the consultation for the redevelopment of Bromley Museum at Priory Gardens. As part of the
consultation, Hannah is keen to hear about the views of local businesses and would be grateful if you could complete the short survey below:
The BID still needs additional theme group members for all of the 4 groups, but in particular the First for Access group.
The groups, highlighted in the presentation are as follows:
- First for Customers
- First for Look & Feel
- First for Access
- First for Business
Please email Chandra Sharma should you wish to be involved. By joining one of these groups, you may be able to influence the BID's priorities and expenditure, so please be a part of this - after all, it is your Town!
The meeting also heard from Hannah Jackson and Elizabeth with regards to the consultation for the redevelopment of Bromley Museum at Priory Gardens. As part of the
consultation, Hannah is keen to hear about the views of local businesses and would be grateful if you could complete the short survey below:
Bromley Museum at The Priory, Orpington is changing – have your say!
The Council has received a development grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to work up plans to conserve and protect the Priory's heritage and to improve the museum service offered. They are currently consulting with a range of groups about the proposed improvements and are especially keen to hear what businesses have to say. Please take a couple of minutes to complete the survey for businesses here. To advise your view as an individual, why not spare five minutes to give your opinion by completing the online survey. For more information on the project, visit: www.bromley.gov.uk/prioryrevisited or email: [email protected] |
Finally, as you may be aware, the Orpington 1st website will shortly be redirected to The OrpingtonTownTalk website in the next few days. Please note that this is still work in progress as we want to make the site relevant to Orpington and the BID. We would welcome all comments and will try and take them on board. A small committee is being set up
to look at the design, look & feel of the website.
to look at the design, look & feel of the website.
8 May 2013 - Summary of OBF meeting
Frank Levett, the new chair, replacing Gary Morris who has retired after a number of years from founding the OBF, through its growth until now.
SNT Update - since last meeting: 14 thefts (shoplifting) - 13 arrests
Burglary at butcher's
2 pickpockets
Thefts at McDonald's - bags and phones left unattended by customers.
ASB - by one prolific young offender, at the Library.
Poundland - theft under £1 - restorative justice - where offender is taken back to the scene to apologise and receive feedback from the victim.
Lady selling 'lucky clover' appears to have stopped.
Roof jumpers - police not aware of anything recently but one OBF member reported there had been a couple of occasions on 217-9 High Street in the last 2 weeks.
Orpington 1st (full presentation here) - Legal agreements (operating, baseline and market) have been signed.
BID levy collection - mid-June bills will go out - 1st instalment due 1 July.
Information leaflet being prepared.
Recruiting for BID executive director, to manage daily business and projects.FBudget for 2013-14 and next four years to be planned.
Accountancy system - College is currently doing accounts for free.
AGM to be on 11 September, when officers will be elected (currently interim officers).
Levy payers to become BID members so they can vote and have a say in deciding governance of the BID company.
Four theme groups:
1. First for Customers - new website for local businesses; loyalty cards; new business campaign; programme of events (aim: to have a major one every month); specialist markets.
2. First for Look & Feel - to tackle vacant units and improving shopfronts; to reduce crime and ASB; to provide information on developments; to produce a plan for the area.
3. First for Access - improved access to parking; improving and keeping open the public toilets (council to provide £25,000 to update); better signage; sustainable transport.
4. First for Business - collective purchasing of waste management and business services (free cardboard recycling already in place); networking opportunities and events; advocacy.
Funding: £212,700 - approximate split as follows (including £38,000 from Bromley Council):
First for Customers £45,900
First for Look and Feel £44,000
First for Access £36,800
First for Business £35,000
Core operating costs £41,000
Contingency £10,000
Orpington 1st magazine - existing Orpington magazine to be rebranded - 4 issues per year - to increase circulation from 13,000 to 20,000.
Priory Museum - Hannah Jackson (Bromley Council) explained the Priory Revisited Project:
Applying to Heritage Lottery Fund for £2.3million
To restore the medieval manor - improve exhibitions and look at how to use the property as a community asset
A consultative panel has been set up to talk with targeted local groups which use or would use the facility
An activity programme will be planned
Possibility of a café
Wanting feedback from local residents and businesses to decide on what local people want
Issues raised included: accessibility, parking, better marketing, types of improvements and uses, how to promote activities to increase footfall in the high street.
Orpington Town Talk - this is now rebranded as Orpington 1st, as from 1 May. Naz Choudhury swiftly ran through a presentation about the new website, explaining that businesses and local groups need to populate the website with information and can create their own pages with links to their websites etc. A team has been set up to review the website and development its content.
Presentations - Frank Levett mentioned that Gary Morris was unable to attend this meeting but the OBF wanted to thank him for his years of leadership to the strong position which the OBF now commands. A presentation was also made to Cheryl Curr, who has been a most supportive Town Centre Manager over the years, particularly helping with preparation and submission of the BID. The Orpington Town Centre role will cease after June but she will be one of only 2 TCMs for Bromley, covering Biggin Hill, Coney Hall, Beckenham, Petts Wood plus, which will be an extremely demanding task!
(Notes: Margot Rohan, Orpington Community)
Frank Levett, the new chair, replacing Gary Morris who has retired after a number of years from founding the OBF, through its growth until now.
SNT Update - since last meeting: 14 thefts (shoplifting) - 13 arrests
Burglary at butcher's
2 pickpockets
Thefts at McDonald's - bags and phones left unattended by customers.
ASB - by one prolific young offender, at the Library.
Poundland - theft under £1 - restorative justice - where offender is taken back to the scene to apologise and receive feedback from the victim.
Lady selling 'lucky clover' appears to have stopped.
Roof jumpers - police not aware of anything recently but one OBF member reported there had been a couple of occasions on 217-9 High Street in the last 2 weeks.
Orpington 1st (full presentation here) - Legal agreements (operating, baseline and market) have been signed.
BID levy collection - mid-June bills will go out - 1st instalment due 1 July.
Information leaflet being prepared.
Recruiting for BID executive director, to manage daily business and projects.FBudget for 2013-14 and next four years to be planned.
Accountancy system - College is currently doing accounts for free.
AGM to be on 11 September, when officers will be elected (currently interim officers).
Levy payers to become BID members so they can vote and have a say in deciding governance of the BID company.
Four theme groups:
1. First for Customers - new website for local businesses; loyalty cards; new business campaign; programme of events (aim: to have a major one every month); specialist markets.
2. First for Look & Feel - to tackle vacant units and improving shopfronts; to reduce crime and ASB; to provide information on developments; to produce a plan for the area.
3. First for Access - improved access to parking; improving and keeping open the public toilets (council to provide £25,000 to update); better signage; sustainable transport.
4. First for Business - collective purchasing of waste management and business services (free cardboard recycling already in place); networking opportunities and events; advocacy.
Funding: £212,700 - approximate split as follows (including £38,000 from Bromley Council):
First for Customers £45,900
First for Look and Feel £44,000
First for Access £36,800
First for Business £35,000
Core operating costs £41,000
Contingency £10,000
Orpington 1st magazine - existing Orpington magazine to be rebranded - 4 issues per year - to increase circulation from 13,000 to 20,000.
Priory Museum - Hannah Jackson (Bromley Council) explained the Priory Revisited Project:
Applying to Heritage Lottery Fund for £2.3million
To restore the medieval manor - improve exhibitions and look at how to use the property as a community asset
A consultative panel has been set up to talk with targeted local groups which use or would use the facility
An activity programme will be planned
Possibility of a café
Wanting feedback from local residents and businesses to decide on what local people want
Issues raised included: accessibility, parking, better marketing, types of improvements and uses, how to promote activities to increase footfall in the high street.
Orpington Town Talk - this is now rebranded as Orpington 1st, as from 1 May. Naz Choudhury swiftly ran through a presentation about the new website, explaining that businesses and local groups need to populate the website with information and can create their own pages with links to their websites etc. A team has been set up to review the website and development its content.
Presentations - Frank Levett mentioned that Gary Morris was unable to attend this meeting but the OBF wanted to thank him for his years of leadership to the strong position which the OBF now commands. A presentation was also made to Cheryl Curr, who has been a most supportive Town Centre Manager over the years, particularly helping with preparation and submission of the BID. The Orpington Town Centre role will cease after June but she will be one of only 2 TCMs for Bromley, covering Biggin Hill, Coney Hall, Beckenham, Petts Wood plus, which will be an extremely demanding task!
(Notes: Margot Rohan, Orpington Community)
2 May 2013 - Good news! OBF attendance free until the end of 2013
The OBF committee has decided that, with the advent of the Orpington 1st BID, no new subscription payments will be collected for the remainder of this calendar year. That means that all meetings are FREE to attend for all local businesses.
As you are aware, the Orpington 1st BID has been in operation since 1st April 2013 and the OBF, along with Orpington 1st, would like to share what is planned for the next few months. Therefore we would encourage every single business in the Town Centre to attend. Please ensure that you invite your immediate business neighbours and any new businesses that you are aware of that have recently opened in the High Street. By attending the meeting, you will be able to make your voice heard, a long standing motto of the
OBF.
Please note that the OBF is here to represent your views both to the Council and also now to the BID, so it is imperative that you raise any concerns that you may have with us and we will see what we can do to help you and your business.
The agenda which highlights some of the areas that will be discussed on the night, can be downloaded from the link above. Please book your place today via this link
www.obfmeeting8may.eventbrite.com so that we know how many people to cater for as light refreshments will be provided.
The OBF committee has decided that, with the advent of the Orpington 1st BID, no new subscription payments will be collected for the remainder of this calendar year. That means that all meetings are FREE to attend for all local businesses.
As you are aware, the Orpington 1st BID has been in operation since 1st April 2013 and the OBF, along with Orpington 1st, would like to share what is planned for the next few months. Therefore we would encourage every single business in the Town Centre to attend. Please ensure that you invite your immediate business neighbours and any new businesses that you are aware of that have recently opened in the High Street. By attending the meeting, you will be able to make your voice heard, a long standing motto of the
OBF.
Please note that the OBF is here to represent your views both to the Council and also now to the BID, so it is imperative that you raise any concerns that you may have with us and we will see what we can do to help you and your business.
The agenda which highlights some of the areas that will be discussed on the night, can be downloaded from the link above. Please book your place today via this link
www.obfmeeting8may.eventbrite.com so that we know how many people to cater for as light refreshments will be provided.
2 April 2013 - Update on Orpington BID
As from yesterday, 1st April, Orpington Town Centre has become a Business Improvement District. This means that you should start seeing some developments over the coming few weeks. You can download the latest Orpington 1st Newsletter which contains some useful information: Click here
Your interim BID board directors, until the AGM on 11th September, are:
Martin Price (Chairman) The Walnuts Shopping Centre
Sia Bodbin Kenton Homes
Andy Andrews The Bakery
Chandra Sharma Tangent Office Resources
Mike Pavitt Wilkinsons
Kay Skelton Walnuts Leisure Centre
As you will see in the Newsletter, Orpington 1st BID have negotiated free recycling of cardboard and plastic with the Walnuts Shopping Centre. This is phase 1 of the full recycling programme that the BID is working on. If you are dropping off cardboard and plastic sheets, please call the Walnuts Centre management in advance on 01689 832923. Roll cages will be set aside by the compactor with separate cages for cardboard and separate ones for plastic. To access this facility, please take the ramp just before the main Walnuts car park (please see attached image). At the bottom of the ramp, turn right and the cages should be there.
Cheryl Curr is also looking for volunteers from local businesses to join the theme groups which will look at delivering the pledges made in the Orpington 1st proposal documents. Please contact Cheryl directly at [email protected] or call her on 07904 367776 if you would like to join one of the following groups:
First for Customers which will focus on promotional activities and marketing
First for Look and Feel which will focus on ensuring a good impression and atmosphere in the Town
First for Access which will focus on travel, parking and signage issues
First for Business which will focus on business services and collective purchasing
Please do not hesitate to email Chandra Sharma (see email link above) or any of the BID Board Directors should you have any questions or concerns.
As from yesterday, 1st April, Orpington Town Centre has become a Business Improvement District. This means that you should start seeing some developments over the coming few weeks. You can download the latest Orpington 1st Newsletter which contains some useful information: Click here
Your interim BID board directors, until the AGM on 11th September, are:
Martin Price (Chairman) The Walnuts Shopping Centre
Sia Bodbin Kenton Homes
Andy Andrews The Bakery
Chandra Sharma Tangent Office Resources
Mike Pavitt Wilkinsons
Kay Skelton Walnuts Leisure Centre
As you will see in the Newsletter, Orpington 1st BID have negotiated free recycling of cardboard and plastic with the Walnuts Shopping Centre. This is phase 1 of the full recycling programme that the BID is working on. If you are dropping off cardboard and plastic sheets, please call the Walnuts Centre management in advance on 01689 832923. Roll cages will be set aside by the compactor with separate cages for cardboard and separate ones for plastic. To access this facility, please take the ramp just before the main Walnuts car park (please see attached image). At the bottom of the ramp, turn right and the cages should be there.
Cheryl Curr is also looking for volunteers from local businesses to join the theme groups which will look at delivering the pledges made in the Orpington 1st proposal documents. Please contact Cheryl directly at [email protected] or call her on 07904 367776 if you would like to join one of the following groups:
First for Customers which will focus on promotional activities and marketing
First for Look and Feel which will focus on ensuring a good impression and atmosphere in the Town
First for Access which will focus on travel, parking and signage issues
First for Business which will focus on business services and collective purchasing
Please do not hesitate to email Chandra Sharma (see email link above) or any of the BID Board Directors should you have any questions or concerns.
6 March 2013 - AGM on 13 March - Election of Officers
This is the first meeting after the successful BID ballot and an update will be given on the progress to date. Orpington High Street will become a BID area from 1st
April 2013 - it is imperative that all businesses attend this meeting so that the BID can share their plans with you. Please book your place by following this link: www.obfmeeting13march.eventbrite.com
In addition, this will be the AGM for the OBF. Gary Morris is resigning as Chair of the OBF, thereby creating a vacancy. Nominations will be accepted for all of the other Executive positions including Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer (download Nomination Form)
Please invite your business neighbours and any new businesses to this meeting.
This is the first meeting after the successful BID ballot and an update will be given on the progress to date. Orpington High Street will become a BID area from 1st
April 2013 - it is imperative that all businesses attend this meeting so that the BID can share their plans with you. Please book your place by following this link: www.obfmeeting13march.eventbrite.com
In addition, this will be the AGM for the OBF. Gary Morris is resigning as Chair of the OBF, thereby creating a vacancy. Nominations will be accepted for all of the other Executive positions including Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer (download Nomination Form)
Please invite your business neighbours and any new businesses to this meeting.
15 February 2013 - Orpington 1st BID - DEADLINE THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY
The voting for the Orpington 1st BID is well and truly underway and the results, as far as can be determined from talking to people,, are neck and neck. As of this Morning,135 out of 350 businesses who are eligible to vote, have voted so far - that's around 38% of the electorate. This means that there are still a number of people who have not yet voted.
Every vote counts- whether you believe that the BID is a good idea or a bad idea. The BID will affect every business in Town, so it is important that everyone casts their vote.
Any ballot papers that have been reported as lost or missing, will be sent out today by Electoral services. If you have not received a ballot paper and you are the rate payer, please email Carol Ling at [email protected] by the close of play on Monday night 18th February 2013 at the latest to allow for the reissued papers to reach you in time. Any such completed papers probably would be better to be hand delivered to the Civic Centre in Bromley by 5pm at the very latest on Thursday 21st February 2013. Please note that papers received after this date or time will not be counted in the vote.
/Counting of the ballot papers will take place first thing on Friday Morning 22nd February 2013 and the result will be available that afternoon. The result will be communicated via the Orpington 1st website and also via email to the people on the OBF database.
Please do not hesitate to contact Chandra Sharma on 07775 743630 should you have any questions.
Please click on the link, to view the latest Orpington 1st Newsletter .
The voting for the Orpington 1st BID is well and truly underway and the results, as far as can be determined from talking to people,, are neck and neck. As of this Morning,135 out of 350 businesses who are eligible to vote, have voted so far - that's around 38% of the electorate. This means that there are still a number of people who have not yet voted.
Every vote counts- whether you believe that the BID is a good idea or a bad idea. The BID will affect every business in Town, so it is important that everyone casts their vote.
Any ballot papers that have been reported as lost or missing, will be sent out today by Electoral services. If you have not received a ballot paper and you are the rate payer, please email Carol Ling at [email protected] by the close of play on Monday night 18th February 2013 at the latest to allow for the reissued papers to reach you in time. Any such completed papers probably would be better to be hand delivered to the Civic Centre in Bromley by 5pm at the very latest on Thursday 21st February 2013. Please note that papers received after this date or time will not be counted in the vote.
/Counting of the ballot papers will take place first thing on Friday Morning 22nd February 2013 and the result will be available that afternoon. The result will be communicated via the Orpington 1st website and also via email to the people on the OBF database.
Please do not hesitate to contact Chandra Sharma on 07775 743630 should you have any questions.
Please click on the link, to view the latest Orpington 1st Newsletter .
23 January 2013
As you will be aware, the voting for the Orpington BID is underway - all eligible businesses will have or will be receiving their ballot papers by post. These must be posted back by 21st February at the latest.
It is important that you are aware of the facts before casting your vote - most of this has been available on the Orpington 1st website for some time www.orpington1st.co.uk,
but some key facts are outlined in the attached document. Please take a few minutes to read this - if you have any questions whatsoever about the BID, please call Chandra Sharma on 07775 743630 and he will do his best to answer them.
Please tell us when you have voted.
Now that ballot papers are dispatched, the BID Campaign team have the task of contacting each voter to ensure that the vital papers have been received and to encourage participation in this important ballot. In order to make this task easier it would be great if voters could let us know when they have voted. If you want to help, you don’t have to tell us how you have voted but simply tell us if you have voted and which properties you are voting for. You can do this by emailing us on [email protected], telephoning 020 8313
4880 or online via this simple online form.
Please find below some events that are scheduled in Orpington over the coming few weeks:
Orpington Recycling project day
Saturday 26th January - Old Gamleys unit - The Walnuts shopping centre (10am - 4pm)
This is a demonstrator project showing what the Orpington BID aims to do for local businesses and includes displays on how recycling is turned into fuel/pencils/food pellets,
etc, Ink cartridge recycling, information on the BID for public and businesses and an Educational tutorial – kids maths games based on sorting recycling.
Orpington Tweet Up
Tuesday 5 February at 7pm - Gesti's Restaurant
An Orpington 'Tweet Up' group to encourage professional tweeting and increase awareness of the 'power' of social media is being held for all Orpington based businesses, organisations and individuals on Tuesday 5th February commencing 7pm at Gesti's Restaurant in the High Street. This inaugural meeting will be open to anyone in the Orpington area who is interested in finding out more about how social media can inform the community - and be useful in providing prompt responses to individual queries.
Google comes to Orpington
Friday 8th February 10am - 3pm - Orpington Campus (Bromley Campus)
Following a study by the Boston Consulting Group that indicated that businesses who have a presence online, grow four to eight times faster than those who don’t, Jo Johnson MP has secured a Google Juice Bar for businesses in Orpington. On 8 February, Google will meet Orpington business owners to offer free advice and tips on how to make the most of the Internet and grow a business online. The event comprises free digital consultations at the Google Juice Bar, as part of Google’s drive to help small businesses grow using the Internet and to help business owners harness new ‘e-skills’.
The Juice Bar has been designed to support and advise businesses regardless of their technical expertise – from starting out and creating their first website, through to improving an existing website and online marketing.
Business owners in Orpington can sign up for the free consultations at the Orpington Campus of Bromley College, the Walnuts, Orpington BR6 0TE from 10:00am til 3.00pm on
8 February 2013. Spaces are limited, so business owners are encouraged to sign up quickly! Follow this link http://www.gbbo.co.uk/googlejuicebar to book your place
Barclays Bank business event
This has now been rescheduled to Friday March 8th - venue and times tba
As you will be aware, the voting for the Orpington BID is underway - all eligible businesses will have or will be receiving their ballot papers by post. These must be posted back by 21st February at the latest.
It is important that you are aware of the facts before casting your vote - most of this has been available on the Orpington 1st website for some time www.orpington1st.co.uk,
but some key facts are outlined in the attached document. Please take a few minutes to read this - if you have any questions whatsoever about the BID, please call Chandra Sharma on 07775 743630 and he will do his best to answer them.
Please tell us when you have voted.
Now that ballot papers are dispatched, the BID Campaign team have the task of contacting each voter to ensure that the vital papers have been received and to encourage participation in this important ballot. In order to make this task easier it would be great if voters could let us know when they have voted. If you want to help, you don’t have to tell us how you have voted but simply tell us if you have voted and which properties you are voting for. You can do this by emailing us on [email protected], telephoning 020 8313
4880 or online via this simple online form.
Please find below some events that are scheduled in Orpington over the coming few weeks:
Orpington Recycling project day
Saturday 26th January - Old Gamleys unit - The Walnuts shopping centre (10am - 4pm)
This is a demonstrator project showing what the Orpington BID aims to do for local businesses and includes displays on how recycling is turned into fuel/pencils/food pellets,
etc, Ink cartridge recycling, information on the BID for public and businesses and an Educational tutorial – kids maths games based on sorting recycling.
Orpington Tweet Up
Tuesday 5 February at 7pm - Gesti's Restaurant
An Orpington 'Tweet Up' group to encourage professional tweeting and increase awareness of the 'power' of social media is being held for all Orpington based businesses, organisations and individuals on Tuesday 5th February commencing 7pm at Gesti's Restaurant in the High Street. This inaugural meeting will be open to anyone in the Orpington area who is interested in finding out more about how social media can inform the community - and be useful in providing prompt responses to individual queries.
Google comes to Orpington
Friday 8th February 10am - 3pm - Orpington Campus (Bromley Campus)
Following a study by the Boston Consulting Group that indicated that businesses who have a presence online, grow four to eight times faster than those who don’t, Jo Johnson MP has secured a Google Juice Bar for businesses in Orpington. On 8 February, Google will meet Orpington business owners to offer free advice and tips on how to make the most of the Internet and grow a business online. The event comprises free digital consultations at the Google Juice Bar, as part of Google’s drive to help small businesses grow using the Internet and to help business owners harness new ‘e-skills’.
The Juice Bar has been designed to support and advise businesses regardless of their technical expertise – from starting out and creating their first website, through to improving an existing website and online marketing.
Business owners in Orpington can sign up for the free consultations at the Orpington Campus of Bromley College, the Walnuts, Orpington BR6 0TE from 10:00am til 3.00pm on
8 February 2013. Spaces are limited, so business owners are encouraged to sign up quickly! Follow this link http://www.gbbo.co.uk/googlejuicebar to book your place
Barclays Bank business event
This has now been rescheduled to Friday March 8th - venue and times tba
7 December 2013
The 12 Frauds of Christmas - crime prevention advice from the National Fraud Intelligence Unit, aimed at protecting residents from fraud over the festive season.
You can now follow Orpington 1st on twitter at www.twitter.com/Orpington1st - please follow this and let OBF know what you think - good or bad!
The 12 Frauds of Christmas - crime prevention advice from the National Fraud Intelligence Unit, aimed at protecting residents from fraud over the festive season.
You can now follow Orpington 1st on twitter at www.twitter.com/Orpington1st - please follow this and let OBF know what you think - good or bad!
5 December 2012
The ballot for the Business Improvement District takes place in February 2013, so it's not long to go - many of you will have received a letter from the electoral services of Bromley Council informing you of the ballot and many will have also received a visit from a BID working group member such as Frank Levett and Cheryl Curr. At the meeting on 11 December, the chair, Gary Morris, will give an update on the BID and the timescales, so it is imperative that all local businesses attend.
In addition, were you affected by the road works last weekend? The OBF has expressed its grave concern to the Council about conducting these works so close to Christmas - come along to the meeting to voice your opinion.
Finally, please complete this short survey to nominate the person who you feel has contributed most to the community of Orpington over the last 12 months. The winner will be announced at 11 December meeting. Please follow this link to complete the survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TBH9XS6
The ballot for the Business Improvement District takes place in February 2013, so it's not long to go - many of you will have received a letter from the electoral services of Bromley Council informing you of the ballot and many will have also received a visit from a BID working group member such as Frank Levett and Cheryl Curr. At the meeting on 11 December, the chair, Gary Morris, will give an update on the BID and the timescales, so it is imperative that all local businesses attend.
In addition, were you affected by the road works last weekend? The OBF has expressed its grave concern to the Council about conducting these works so close to Christmas - come along to the meeting to voice your opinion.
Finally, please complete this short survey to nominate the person who you feel has contributed most to the community of Orpington over the last 12 months. The winner will be announced at 11 December meeting. Please follow this link to complete the survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TBH9XS6
5 October 2012
With the BID ballot approaching fast in February 2013, it is imperative that all local businesses attend the 9 October meeting to see how the BID could affect you and the Town.
Please book your place via this link www.obfmeeting.eventbrite.com
With the BID ballot approaching fast in February 2013, it is imperative that all local businesses attend the 9 October meeting to see how the BID could affect you and the Town.
Please book your place via this link www.obfmeeting.eventbrite.com
14 August 2012 - Notes of meeting
A new secretary volunteered and was accepted for the ensuing year: Shaun Gunning.
Safer Neighbourhood Report: (Sgt. Russell Lamb) Orpington Police Station has now been sold. The SNT is operating out of Corals premises.
The team is remaining with 2 PCs and 6 PCSOs + 2 PCs covering the high street. Eventually there will be a cluster of 6 local teams all working out of Corals.
A new blueprint for London police services is being redesigned as Boris Johnson turned down the original proposals.
No signs of increase (or decrease) in crime on the high street.
Some thefts from unattended vehicles where items of value were left on show.
A few overnight burglaries of premises.
Roof jumpers are still a major issue. It is difficult to get them down, as their being there is not an offence in itself, and there are so many routes between the roofs. However, they have been throwing things from the roof and this is an offence, so some have been arrested. There is also one culprit who has been setting fire to bins at the back of the premises and he will be charged with arson.
Team is planning some one-day 'short sharp shock' initiatives - mainly around Orpington College - to encourage these under 17-year olds to stop this behaviour before they escalate into an adult criminal life.
BID Update: (Chandra Sharma) 60 businesses were surveyed. The ballot where all the businesses will have the opportunity to vote for or against the BID will take place in February 2013. The winning logo for the BID company - Orpington 1st - is pictured here. A new website is being developed.
A new secretary volunteered and was accepted for the ensuing year: Shaun Gunning.
Safer Neighbourhood Report: (Sgt. Russell Lamb) Orpington Police Station has now been sold. The SNT is operating out of Corals premises.
The team is remaining with 2 PCs and 6 PCSOs + 2 PCs covering the high street. Eventually there will be a cluster of 6 local teams all working out of Corals.
A new blueprint for London police services is being redesigned as Boris Johnson turned down the original proposals.
No signs of increase (or decrease) in crime on the high street.
Some thefts from unattended vehicles where items of value were left on show.
A few overnight burglaries of premises.
Roof jumpers are still a major issue. It is difficult to get them down, as their being there is not an offence in itself, and there are so many routes between the roofs. However, they have been throwing things from the roof and this is an offence, so some have been arrested. There is also one culprit who has been setting fire to bins at the back of the premises and he will be charged with arson.
Team is planning some one-day 'short sharp shock' initiatives - mainly around Orpington College - to encourage these under 17-year olds to stop this behaviour before they escalate into an adult criminal life.
BID Update: (Chandra Sharma) 60 businesses were surveyed. The ballot where all the businesses will have the opportunity to vote for or against the BID will take place in February 2013. The winning logo for the BID company - Orpington 1st - is pictured here. A new website is being developed.
The main issues identified by the results of the survey are:
Mix of retail (too many cafes, charity shops etc - not enough variety) 58% Availability of parking 52% Toilets (lack of) 41% Crime 28% Other feedback from the survey is available here: Orpington 1st Consultation Results There will be a monthly newsletter starting from September. |
Town Centre Manager's Report: (Cheryl Curr) 2 recent events - Makers' Market was reasonably successful, although could have been improved with more publicity. The majority of merchandise was homemade and proved very popular. These events could be more regular to increase footfall. The Dance in Priory Gardens - the marquee was jam packed. It would have been better to have held it in the Walnuts, to help increase footfall. However, when planning the event, it was thought that the development would have started.
Christmas event is being planned for Wednesday 21 November - with the fairground in the Orpington College staff car park.
Also planning a couple of continental or farmers' markets at weekends.
The Walnuts development application for the cinema/shopping compled is likely to go to a planning committee in late September. The application can be viewed here by entering 12/02027/FULL1 in the search box.
Meeting Dates 2013: It was decided to change the meetings to Jan/Mar/May/Jul/Sep/Nov, so as to avoid August and December.
'A' Boards: When the high street was rekerbed, the council wanted to abolish these. However, the OBF lobbied the council, so each business can have one 'A' Board (maximum size A1) which must be abutting the building. There are a few businesses breaching this concession, so OBF members were asked to have a quiet word when they see one of their neighbouring businesses in breach, to avoid enforcement action being taken by the council. Councillor Pauline Tunnicliffe volunteered to have a word with the council officer, to suggest that all the businesses should not be penalised for breaches by individuals.
Loyalty Cards: 5,000 cards have been sponsored by the Walnuts. 50 businesses have so far signed up to it. Businesses can be flexible - they can participate in the scheme one month and opt out the next, to suit their trading patterns. The scheme is open to all businesses in the Orpington area, not just the high street.
Christmas event is being planned for Wednesday 21 November - with the fairground in the Orpington College staff car park.
Also planning a couple of continental or farmers' markets at weekends.
The Walnuts development application for the cinema/shopping compled is likely to go to a planning committee in late September. The application can be viewed here by entering 12/02027/FULL1 in the search box.
Meeting Dates 2013: It was decided to change the meetings to Jan/Mar/May/Jul/Sep/Nov, so as to avoid August and December.
'A' Boards: When the high street was rekerbed, the council wanted to abolish these. However, the OBF lobbied the council, so each business can have one 'A' Board (maximum size A1) which must be abutting the building. There are a few businesses breaching this concession, so OBF members were asked to have a quiet word when they see one of their neighbouring businesses in breach, to avoid enforcement action being taken by the council. Councillor Pauline Tunnicliffe volunteered to have a word with the council officer, to suggest that all the businesses should not be penalised for breaches by individuals.
Loyalty Cards: 5,000 cards have been sponsored by the Walnuts. 50 businesses have so far signed up to it. Businesses can be flexible - they can participate in the scheme one month and opt out the next, to suit their trading patterns. The scheme is open to all businesses in the Orpington area, not just the high street.
Orpington's Finest: (Gary Morris) Just under 2,000 votes were cast. 38 different businesses were credited with votes. The shop window category was cancelled due to becoming somewhat contentious. The winners were announced as follows and were presented with their certificates, by Councillors Pauline Tunnicliffe and William Huntington-Thresher:
People in the Community: Street Pastors (since 2006, they have patrolled Orpington High Street on Friday evenings between 9pm and 12am, offering help and support to vulnerable people).
2nd: Orpington Keyboard Club. 3rd: Cafe Panacea Favourite Retailer or Business Person: Thornburrows 2nd: Chandra Sharma. 3rd: Joint winners - Matt Helmsley (TMT music), VTB mobility, Karen Alabaster (Cafe Panacea) Customer Service (Food & Drink): Cafe Panacea 2nd: Fiesta Mexicana. 3rd: Joint winners - Primo, Ephesus, Osteria fabrice Customer Service (Retail): Groom Barbering 2nd: Thornburrows. 3rd: Tangent Office Supplies |
AOB: Goddington Park needs assistance in promoting the Goddington Project - such as putting up posters and donating items for an auction in September/October - contact: Chris Harper (Orpington Football Club) - full information here.
Party in the Priory is on 18/19 August - members were asked to put up posters and distribute leaflets.
Party in the Priory is on 18/19 August - members were asked to put up posters and distribute leaflets.
7 August 2012 - Message from Chandra Sharma
14 August is a very important meeting and one where the winners of Orpington’s Finest 2012 will be announced and awarded their certificates. We will also be taking pictures of the winners for distribution to the local media. This has been the busiest year in terms of voting and I am led to believe that the results in each category are very close! So if you are in contention, then it is imperative that you (and your staff) attend.
As time is getting ever closer to the February ballot, we will be giving an update on the BID with some interesting results from the recent surveys. There will also be an update from the Safer Neighbourhood Team.
I would like to encourage everyone to book their attendance online to this important meeting on line via this link OBF Booking for 14 August - Attendance is still free, but this will help us to determine the numbers for the White Hart. The online booking should take no longer than about 60 seconds – just click 'register' and enter your details.
Please invite any new local businesses to the meeting so that we can welcome them to the Town. Please also invite your immediate business neighbours.
14 August is a very important meeting and one where the winners of Orpington’s Finest 2012 will be announced and awarded their certificates. We will also be taking pictures of the winners for distribution to the local media. This has been the busiest year in terms of voting and I am led to believe that the results in each category are very close! So if you are in contention, then it is imperative that you (and your staff) attend.
As time is getting ever closer to the February ballot, we will be giving an update on the BID with some interesting results from the recent surveys. There will also be an update from the Safer Neighbourhood Team.
I would like to encourage everyone to book their attendance online to this important meeting on line via this link OBF Booking for 14 August - Attendance is still free, but this will help us to determine the numbers for the White Hart. The online booking should take no longer than about 60 seconds – just click 'register' and enter your details.
Please invite any new local businesses to the meeting so that we can welcome them to the Town. Please also invite your immediate business neighbours.
3 August 2012 - Jo Johnson MP to support relaunch of Loyalty Card
Jo Johnson MP will be attending the re-launch of the Orpington Loyalty Card on Friday 10th August 2012 2.30-3.15pm at the Harvest Moon (the latest Company to sign up for the loyalty card). This will be a great endorsement for the card and Stuart Hopkins is to be thanked for all the work that he has put into making this a success.
Please could as many businesses as possible to attend this event, as it will help towards promoting the card to a wider audience. Details of the event are below:
Jo Johnson MP will be attending the re-launch of the Orpington Loyalty Card on Friday 10th August 2012 2.30-3.15pm at the Harvest Moon (the latest Company to sign up for the loyalty card). This will be a great endorsement for the card and Stuart Hopkins is to be thanked for all the work that he has put into making this a success.
Please could as many businesses as possible to attend this event, as it will help towards promoting the card to a wider audience. Details of the event are below:
14:30
14:55 |
Meet in The Harvest Moon - a Weatherspoons pub - (the manager has kindly agreed to provide a space and provide tea & coffee) - and have an informal sit down chat with other business owners / representatives.
Move to the atrium in the Walnuts Centre for photo opportunity and to give out some cards to the general public |
9 July 2012 - Great News! from Chandra Sharma
We have been advised that the situation regarding the two PCs on the High Street remains unchanged for the time being. This is as a result of Gary’s letter to the Borough Commander and a subsequent meeting held with the Police by Committee members of the OBF. This is an extract from an email from Sgt Russell Lamb regarding policing in Orpington: ‘The format of the Metropolitan Police is changing. The exact formation, and allocation of resources is not known yet, and will not be fully understood until well after the Olympics. Therefore in the mean time, the two High Street PCs will remain in Orpington but attached as additional staff to the SNT but with the remit of covering Orpington High Street when on duty. This will be reviewed when the new 'Local Policing Teams' are put in place sometime between October and March’
Attached is a Newsletter from the Borough Commander which is self-explanatory.
Another piece of good news is that a brand new store, Cargo Home Store will be opening shortly in the place of Bensons Beds.
BID update – Please help us by completing an online survey for the Orpington BID by following this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/bidfororpington - it should only take a few minutes and will help us with looking at your priorities.
Finally, another positive announcement: another new shop will be opening in Orpington, the Priory Art Gallery, 43 – 45 High Street, Orpington and all local businesses are invited to a private viewing on Friday 13th July from 7pm – 9pm – there will be wine and nibbles for all attending! The exhibition entitled ‘Roads Not Taken’ demonstrates work from local Artists. The exhibition will be open to the public for 1 week from Saturday 14th July. Please support this local business by attending the private visit. Further details can be found at: http://priorygallery.yolasite.com.
We have been advised that the situation regarding the two PCs on the High Street remains unchanged for the time being. This is as a result of Gary’s letter to the Borough Commander and a subsequent meeting held with the Police by Committee members of the OBF. This is an extract from an email from Sgt Russell Lamb regarding policing in Orpington: ‘The format of the Metropolitan Police is changing. The exact formation, and allocation of resources is not known yet, and will not be fully understood until well after the Olympics. Therefore in the mean time, the two High Street PCs will remain in Orpington but attached as additional staff to the SNT but with the remit of covering Orpington High Street when on duty. This will be reviewed when the new 'Local Policing Teams' are put in place sometime between October and March’
Attached is a Newsletter from the Borough Commander which is self-explanatory.
Another piece of good news is that a brand new store, Cargo Home Store will be opening shortly in the place of Bensons Beds.
BID update – Please help us by completing an online survey for the Orpington BID by following this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/bidfororpington - it should only take a few minutes and will help us with looking at your priorities.
Finally, another positive announcement: another new shop will be opening in Orpington, the Priory Art Gallery, 43 – 45 High Street, Orpington and all local businesses are invited to a private viewing on Friday 13th July from 7pm – 9pm – there will be wine and nibbles for all attending! The exhibition entitled ‘Roads Not Taken’ demonstrates work from local Artists. The exhibition will be open to the public for 1 week from Saturday 14th July. Please support this local business by attending the private visit. Further details can be found at: http://priorygallery.yolasite.com.
12 June 2012 - Notes of OBF meeting - exciting new developments for Orpington High Street
One of the Orpington councillors attended - Cllr Pauline Tunnicliffe.
Election - No new nominations were received. The existing committee was re-elected, including:
Chair: Gary Morris
Vice-Chair/PR: Chandra Sharma
Treasurer: Frank Levett
Legal Adviser: Vernon Hadida
Vacant Unit Monitor: Phil Westley
Council Liaison: Sue Ball
Safer Neighbourhood Report - Consideration is being given to the idea of Safer Neighbourhood Teams being recentralised into local policing teams, covering wider areas (Orpington/Chislehurst/Petts Wood).
Freerunning - problem of freerunning on the roofs in the High Street, with some culprits dropping things on people and property below. This is a civil offence which makes it difficult for the police unless criminal acts are committed. CCTV is monitored which has helped to identify culprits. The police have given advice to shopowners to suggest ways of securing access so the roofs cannot be reached.
Stop and search - the police monitor ASB, carrying out stop and search when necessary. They take young people back to their parents and advise the parents of their children's activities. One ASBO has been issued.
Loyalty Card - 45-50 local businesses are already participating and 1000 cards have been handed out - recipients merely have to fill out a form giving personal details, so they can be contacted with special offers etc. Full details are given on the OBF website: Loyalty Card
BID Update - A complete explanation can be viewed on the OBF website: Orpington BID. The idea of a BID is to bring more customers into the town centre.
Business contributions are likely to be between 1.25% and 1.5% of rateable value, with a minimum level (below which businesses will not pay) and a maximum cap. The benefits should far outweigh the costs.
The ballot date for Orpington businesses to decide whether the BID will go ahead is being considered - probably either November or February. The BID working group will make a decision on the date in the near future.
40 local businesses have been visited and have completed questionnaires on what they consider the town needs. Eventually all businesses in the High Street will be visited and asked to complete questionnaires.
The winning suggestion for the name of the BID company was 'Orpington 1st'. A new website is being developed and both domain names - www.orpingtonfirst.co.uk and www.orpington1st.co.uk - have been registered.
Town Centre Manager's Report - Cheryl Curr reported: The questionnaires completed so far have been analysed and the main issues raised have been:
raising the footfall, marketing the town centre and ASB.
At a contribution of 1.5% would raise £180,000. The BID proposal will detail how the money will be spent and will take into account the priorities put forward by the questionnaire results.
Orpington's Finest - This is the 5th year of this competition. Cards are being distributed and voting can also be done online at: Orpington's Finest Competition 2012. View the poster here for full details.
Zero tolerance on litter - Bromley council will be trialling this for 6 months starting in the next couple of months. FPNs will be issued to anyone littering in Orpington High Street.
One of the Orpington councillors attended - Cllr Pauline Tunnicliffe.
Election - No new nominations were received. The existing committee was re-elected, including:
Chair: Gary Morris
Vice-Chair/PR: Chandra Sharma
Treasurer: Frank Levett
Legal Adviser: Vernon Hadida
Vacant Unit Monitor: Phil Westley
Council Liaison: Sue Ball
Safer Neighbourhood Report - Consideration is being given to the idea of Safer Neighbourhood Teams being recentralised into local policing teams, covering wider areas (Orpington/Chislehurst/Petts Wood).
Freerunning - problem of freerunning on the roofs in the High Street, with some culprits dropping things on people and property below. This is a civil offence which makes it difficult for the police unless criminal acts are committed. CCTV is monitored which has helped to identify culprits. The police have given advice to shopowners to suggest ways of securing access so the roofs cannot be reached.
Stop and search - the police monitor ASB, carrying out stop and search when necessary. They take young people back to their parents and advise the parents of their children's activities. One ASBO has been issued.
Loyalty Card - 45-50 local businesses are already participating and 1000 cards have been handed out - recipients merely have to fill out a form giving personal details, so they can be contacted with special offers etc. Full details are given on the OBF website: Loyalty Card
BID Update - A complete explanation can be viewed on the OBF website: Orpington BID. The idea of a BID is to bring more customers into the town centre.
Business contributions are likely to be between 1.25% and 1.5% of rateable value, with a minimum level (below which businesses will not pay) and a maximum cap. The benefits should far outweigh the costs.
The ballot date for Orpington businesses to decide whether the BID will go ahead is being considered - probably either November or February. The BID working group will make a decision on the date in the near future.
40 local businesses have been visited and have completed questionnaires on what they consider the town needs. Eventually all businesses in the High Street will be visited and asked to complete questionnaires.
The winning suggestion for the name of the BID company was 'Orpington 1st'. A new website is being developed and both domain names - www.orpingtonfirst.co.uk and www.orpington1st.co.uk - have been registered.
Town Centre Manager's Report - Cheryl Curr reported: The questionnaires completed so far have been analysed and the main issues raised have been:
raising the footfall, marketing the town centre and ASB.
At a contribution of 1.5% would raise £180,000. The BID proposal will detail how the money will be spent and will take into account the priorities put forward by the questionnaire results.
Orpington's Finest - This is the 5th year of this competition. Cards are being distributed and voting can also be done online at: Orpington's Finest Competition 2012. View the poster here for full details.
Zero tolerance on litter - Bromley council will be trialling this for 6 months starting in the next couple of months. FPNs will be issued to anyone littering in Orpington High Street.
Walnuts Development - Mark Hewett of Miller Developments* showed the artist's impression of the proposed development, Crown Buildings. A planning application is likely to be submitted in the next 3 months. The Job Centre and surrounding area will be levelled ready for the first phase of building - retail outlets - before the end of the year. A cinema development with restaurants is planned for completion during 2013. It is also proposed that the market area will be enhanced when it moves to College Square. The press release prior to the public exhibition on 31 May/1 June provides more information here. * Established over 40 years ago, Miller Developments, a division of the Miller Group, is one of the UK’s leading and most admired property development companies. Miller Developments is responsible for large scale property development programmes throughout mainland Europe and the UK. |
Artist's Impression of Proposed Development of Orpington Town Centre |
8 May 2012 - Letter from Chandra Sharma of the OBF:
Dear Members and Colleagues
Just a quick reminder that the next meeting of the Orpington Business Forum will take place at the fabulous Gesti’s Restaurant (formerly Ask Restaurant) on Tuesday 12th June 2012 from 6pm – 7.30pm.
This is an extremely important meeting as we will be giving you the latest update on the Business Improvement District (BID), which will affect every business on the High Street.
Points of discussion will include:
As stated above, this is an extremely important meeting as we lead up to a ballot of a Business Improvement District – we want to ensure that everyone is kept informed of developments. Please invite your business Neighbours, any new businesses that may have opened in the Town and anyone who may not heard about the BID.
Dear Members and Colleagues
Just a quick reminder that the next meeting of the Orpington Business Forum will take place at the fabulous Gesti’s Restaurant (formerly Ask Restaurant) on Tuesday 12th June 2012 from 6pm – 7.30pm.
This is an extremely important meeting as we will be giving you the latest update on the Business Improvement District (BID), which will affect every business on the High Street.
Points of discussion will include:
- Update on the BID
- Launch of Orpington’s Finest Competition
- Orpington Loyalty card update
- Walnuts Shopping Centre development
As stated above, this is an extremely important meeting as we lead up to a ballot of a Business Improvement District – we want to ensure that everyone is kept informed of developments. Please invite your business Neighbours, any new businesses that may have opened in the Town and anyone who may not heard about the BID.
26 April 2012 - Letter from Chandra Sharma of the OBF:
Dear Members & Colleagues,
I am very pleased to announce that Mark Prisk MP, Secretary of State for Business & Enterprise and Jo Johnson MP for Orpington will be attending the Orpington Campus of Bromley College (formerly Orpington College) on Wednesday 2nd May at 2.30pm for a meeting with Bromley based businesses.
This is a real opportunity for local businesses to put some questions to a senior Government Minister – no holds barred!. The meeting will start at 2.30pm and finish by 3.30pm.
In terms of the meeting, Jo Johnson will introduce Mark Prisk briefly. Mark will then speak for around 15 minutes covering the following topics:
· What the Government is doing for Small Businesses
· Access to Finance
· Red Tape
· Mentoring
· Apprenticeships
Jo is keen to say that, however, this is a session for the businesses and Mark Prisk wants to hear their concerns.
i would strongly urge everyone to attend. It would be really helpful if you could email me if you are intending to come to the meeting so that we have an idea of numbers. Please invite your business Neighbours and particularly any new businesses that have recently opened in the area.
I look forward to meeting everyone on 3rd May.
Dear Members & Colleagues,
I am very pleased to announce that Mark Prisk MP, Secretary of State for Business & Enterprise and Jo Johnson MP for Orpington will be attending the Orpington Campus of Bromley College (formerly Orpington College) on Wednesday 2nd May at 2.30pm for a meeting with Bromley based businesses.
This is a real opportunity for local businesses to put some questions to a senior Government Minister – no holds barred!. The meeting will start at 2.30pm and finish by 3.30pm.
In terms of the meeting, Jo Johnson will introduce Mark Prisk briefly. Mark will then speak for around 15 minutes covering the following topics:
· What the Government is doing for Small Businesses
· Access to Finance
· Red Tape
· Mentoring
· Apprenticeships
Jo is keen to say that, however, this is a session for the businesses and Mark Prisk wants to hear their concerns.
i would strongly urge everyone to attend. It would be really helpful if you could email me if you are intending to come to the meeting so that we have an idea of numbers. Please invite your business Neighbours and particularly any new businesses that have recently opened in the area.
I look forward to meeting everyone on 3rd May.
16 March 2012
Old Allied Carpets Head Office at the Northern end of the High Street - Planning application:
This application, for a three/four storey block comprising 50 sheltered flats for the elderly, was submitted on 13th March and people have up to 21 days from the date of the application to comment on it. The letter received from the Planning Department is here. You can view the application on the Bromley Council website here (enter 12/00304/FULL1 in search box). OBF would be interested to hear your views, so the OBF will be able to put in a formal response to the Council. Of course, this does not stop anyone putting in an individual response for or against the application.
Please could you let Chandra Sharma know your views by next Friday 23rd March at the latest.
Old Allied Carpets Head Office at the Northern end of the High Street - Planning application:
This application, for a three/four storey block comprising 50 sheltered flats for the elderly, was submitted on 13th March and people have up to 21 days from the date of the application to comment on it. The letter received from the Planning Department is here. You can view the application on the Bromley Council website here (enter 12/00304/FULL1 in search box). OBF would be interested to hear your views, so the OBF will be able to put in a formal response to the Council. Of course, this does not stop anyone putting in an individual response for or against the application.
Please could you let Chandra Sharma know your views by next Friday 23rd March at the latest.
15 March 2012
Orpington Business Forum is actively exploring what the establishment of a Business Improvement District (BID) could do for the town. This followed a successful workshop on 21st February at Orpington College which began to identify the priorities for developing on Orpington’s strengths as a Retail / Commercial centre.
The identity and profile of the centre were seen as key issues, and it was felt important that the Town and the BID get its branding right, so we are looking for the right name for the BID.
An on-line survey was launched to get more ideas and assemble a short list. In case you have not had the opportunity of responding as yet, the survey deadline has been extended until 1pm on Monday 19th March. You can make your suggestion and/or vote for your favourite by following the link below. As an added incentive all those participating will be entered into a draw for a fabulous prize of £50 worth of vouchers from WH Smith. Further details about the Orpington BID can be found on the Orpington Business Forum website.
Please follow this link to see and complete the survey BID Survey
Orpington Loyalty Card - At the February OBF meeting, Stuart Hopkins made a short presentation regarding the soon to be launched Orpington Loyalty Card - an initiative aimed at incentivising local residents into using our local businesses within the proposed BID's catchment area by offering discounts and other benefits.
The scheme is sponsored by the OBF and the Walnuts Shopping Centre, meaning that there will be a website created which will advertise all participating businesses, plus window stickers, and also loyalty cards.
The ultimate goal is for every resident of Orpington to have (and use) a card.
Orpington Business Forum is actively exploring what the establishment of a Business Improvement District (BID) could do for the town. This followed a successful workshop on 21st February at Orpington College which began to identify the priorities for developing on Orpington’s strengths as a Retail / Commercial centre.
The identity and profile of the centre were seen as key issues, and it was felt important that the Town and the BID get its branding right, so we are looking for the right name for the BID.
An on-line survey was launched to get more ideas and assemble a short list. In case you have not had the opportunity of responding as yet, the survey deadline has been extended until 1pm on Monday 19th March. You can make your suggestion and/or vote for your favourite by following the link below. As an added incentive all those participating will be entered into a draw for a fabulous prize of £50 worth of vouchers from WH Smith. Further details about the Orpington BID can be found on the Orpington Business Forum website.
Please follow this link to see and complete the survey BID Survey
Orpington Loyalty Card - At the February OBF meeting, Stuart Hopkins made a short presentation regarding the soon to be launched Orpington Loyalty Card - an initiative aimed at incentivising local residents into using our local businesses within the proposed BID's catchment area by offering discounts and other benefits.
The scheme is sponsored by the OBF and the Walnuts Shopping Centre, meaning that there will be a website created which will advertise all participating businesses, plus window stickers, and also loyalty cards.
The ultimate goal is for every resident of Orpington to have (and use) a card.
22 February 2012
Last night was a very important meeting, introduced by Gary Morris, Chair of the OBF. Giles Semper, the Consultant from 'The Means', for the Orpington Business Improvement District (BID), presented and explained the timescales for the BID. During March the BID working group will talk with businesses to assess feasibility and a decision on whether to proceed will be made in April. There will be a postal vote and, if there is a positive result, all businesses in the area will pay a small 'levy', which will provide the funds to develop a programme of improvements, together with the BID money (£90,000). About 50 attended and were distributed over 7 tables. After the initial presentation, each table discussed one of the following four topics:
- Area management & public realm
- Safety & security
- Marketing Orpington
- Services to businesses
Each table identified a key challenge and a possible solution and suggested a 'killer idea'. The main issues were around security (perceptions of young people hanging around appearing intimidating), lack of variety in the retail/leisure mix, the current poor image of Orpington, the need to attract new investment/retailers and concern about litter and cleanliness. Various solutions were recommended, such as decorative shopfronts for empty units, revitalising the Walnuts open spaces, market research to identify what local residents want and targeted marketing to encourage the right sort of retail. 'Killer ideas' included a skating rink, a cinema, additional cleaning to ensure toilets and open spaces are inviting.
A number of suggestions were put forward for the name of the new BID company, the most popular of which were Orpington First and Orpington4Us.
A new Orpington Loyalty card was proposed which would be offered freely to residents who would receive discounts for shopping locally.
There will be another meeting on Saturday 25 February, to set up a working group to progress the project.
Last night was a very important meeting, introduced by Gary Morris, Chair of the OBF. Giles Semper, the Consultant from 'The Means', for the Orpington Business Improvement District (BID), presented and explained the timescales for the BID. During March the BID working group will talk with businesses to assess feasibility and a decision on whether to proceed will be made in April. There will be a postal vote and, if there is a positive result, all businesses in the area will pay a small 'levy', which will provide the funds to develop a programme of improvements, together with the BID money (£90,000). About 50 attended and were distributed over 7 tables. After the initial presentation, each table discussed one of the following four topics:
- Area management & public realm
- Safety & security
- Marketing Orpington
- Services to businesses
Each table identified a key challenge and a possible solution and suggested a 'killer idea'. The main issues were around security (perceptions of young people hanging around appearing intimidating), lack of variety in the retail/leisure mix, the current poor image of Orpington, the need to attract new investment/retailers and concern about litter and cleanliness. Various solutions were recommended, such as decorative shopfronts for empty units, revitalising the Walnuts open spaces, market research to identify what local residents want and targeted marketing to encourage the right sort of retail. 'Killer ideas' included a skating rink, a cinema, additional cleaning to ensure toilets and open spaces are inviting.
A number of suggestions were put forward for the name of the new BID company, the most popular of which were Orpington First and Orpington4Us.
A new Orpington Loyalty card was proposed which would be offered freely to residents who would receive discounts for shopping locally.
There will be another meeting on Saturday 25 February, to set up a working group to progress the project.
16 February 2012
Visioning Event to discuss BID proposal: Tuesday 21 February 2012 at 6-7.30pm - Venue: Orpington College, The Walnuts, Orpington BR6 0TE
This is an exceptionally important meeting and it is imperative that all local businesses attend. It will also be slightly different to our ‘normal’ meetings in that this is a ‘visioning’ event for the Business Improvement District (BID) proposal for Orpington Town Centre. The meeting will be interactive and everyone will have an opportunity to contribute. There is a revised agenda to the one previously issued as this details the points that will be discussed on the night.
We will be looking at things such as how a BID could address the issues in Orpington and some topics that could be discussed may include:
Ø Area management & public realm
Ø Safety & security
Ø Marketing Orpington
Ø Services to businesses
I cannot stress enough the importance of the need to attend this time – Please note that nothing is a ‘done deal’ and that this is an opportunity for everyone to contribute to the
discussion.
Please invite your immediate business Neighbours and any new businesses that may have opened close to you as I am sure they would be interested to see what is proposed for our Town.
Regards Chandra Sharma
Visioning Event to discuss BID proposal: Tuesday 21 February 2012 at 6-7.30pm - Venue: Orpington College, The Walnuts, Orpington BR6 0TE
This is an exceptionally important meeting and it is imperative that all local businesses attend. It will also be slightly different to our ‘normal’ meetings in that this is a ‘visioning’ event for the Business Improvement District (BID) proposal for Orpington Town Centre. The meeting will be interactive and everyone will have an opportunity to contribute. There is a revised agenda to the one previously issued as this details the points that will be discussed on the night.
We will be looking at things such as how a BID could address the issues in Orpington and some topics that could be discussed may include:
Ø Area management & public realm
Ø Safety & security
Ø Marketing Orpington
Ø Services to businesses
I cannot stress enough the importance of the need to attend this time – Please note that nothing is a ‘done deal’ and that this is an opportunity for everyone to contribute to the
discussion.
Please invite your immediate business Neighbours and any new businesses that may have opened close to you as I am sure they would be interested to see what is proposed for our Town.
Regards Chandra Sharma
13 February 2012
FREE half hour talks with opportunities for questions and at no cost or obligation, by Thomas Dunton Solicitors at Orpington Library. Please find attached a poster with all the
details. In brief, there are three sessions as follows (see Poster for full details):
28th February - Wills, Probate and Powers of Attorney
Only by leaving a will can you ensure that your estate goes to those you want it to and your dependents are provided for. By making a Power of Attorney you can plan for the possibility of one day being unable, either physically or mentally, to look after your affairs.
27th March - Redundancy
A job for life is a concept that no longer exists and the possibility of redundancy can affect anyone in any part of the world. It is important therefore that you are aware of your rights as an employee and that correct procedures are followed.
24th April - Starting over
Statistics show that more older people than ever are divorcing and remarrying or finding new partners. It is therefore very sensible to take legal advice on your protecting your assets.
You can follow Thomas Dunton Solicitors on Twitter @ThomasDuntonLaw
FREE half hour talks with opportunities for questions and at no cost or obligation, by Thomas Dunton Solicitors at Orpington Library. Please find attached a poster with all the
details. In brief, there are three sessions as follows (see Poster for full details):
28th February - Wills, Probate and Powers of Attorney
Only by leaving a will can you ensure that your estate goes to those you want it to and your dependents are provided for. By making a Power of Attorney you can plan for the possibility of one day being unable, either physically or mentally, to look after your affairs.
27th March - Redundancy
A job for life is a concept that no longer exists and the possibility of redundancy can affect anyone in any part of the world. It is important therefore that you are aware of your rights as an employee and that correct procedures are followed.
24th April - Starting over
Statistics show that more older people than ever are divorcing and remarrying or finding new partners. It is therefore very sensible to take legal advice on your protecting your assets.
You can follow Thomas Dunton Solicitors on Twitter @ThomasDuntonLaw
1 February 2012
London Borough of Bromley are delivering a Business Support service (see flyer) via South London Business in Orpington. Funded by the London Mayor’s Outer London fund, South London Business (SLB) has been commissioned by Martin Pinnell from Bromley Council to provide free workshops to businesses with the town centre area, in addition to this SLB are also offering one to one mentoring sessions and short advice surgeries for a small fee. The workshops are limited to 12 people for each one, on a first come, first served basis.
Please let them know if you are interested in this great service. Alternatively you can access further information on the website www.southlondonbusiness.co.uk/bromley_business_support.php
St Mary Cray Country Market will be running on the 1st Wednesday of each month- starting 1 February between 10am-11.30am in the new Orpington Village Hall, High Street, Orpington (next to the memorial roundabout). There will be all home-made, home-grown items crafted by local people.
London Borough of Bromley are delivering a Business Support service (see flyer) via South London Business in Orpington. Funded by the London Mayor’s Outer London fund, South London Business (SLB) has been commissioned by Martin Pinnell from Bromley Council to provide free workshops to businesses with the town centre area, in addition to this SLB are also offering one to one mentoring sessions and short advice surgeries for a small fee. The workshops are limited to 12 people for each one, on a first come, first served basis.
Please let them know if you are interested in this great service. Alternatively you can access further information on the website www.southlondonbusiness.co.uk/bromley_business_support.php
St Mary Cray Country Market will be running on the 1st Wednesday of each month- starting 1 February between 10am-11.30am in the new Orpington Village Hall, High Street, Orpington (next to the memorial roundabout). There will be all home-made, home-grown items crafted by local people.
9 January 2012 - Letter from the OBF Vice-Chair, Chandra Sharma:
Dear Members & Colleagues,
May I take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy New and successful Year.
I recently met with Peter Turvey, Head of Street Services and he expressed concern over the fact that some businesses were abusing the positioning of the A Boards outside their premises. Below, I have listed the agreed actions following a meeting of the OBF with Peter – for the full list click here. It is imperative that we follow the directions below, otherwise this could result in legal action against the offenders. On a worst case scenario, the Council may also revert to it’s original suggestion of zero tolerance on A Boards which is something that none of us want.
The OBF has always stated that we will work with the Council and the compromise that we agreed was for the benefit of local traders, so we should not abuse or bend the rules. I am informed that the Council will start to enforce these guidelines from 1st February 2012. As all businesses in Orpington do not receive my emails, can I ask that you let your immediate neighbour(s) know.
Advertisement boards (“A”- boards)
I am also pleased to advise you that the OBF is now on Twitter – our address is http://www.twitter.com/OrpBusForum ( or you can just type in @OrpBusForum into Twitter search if you have a Twitter account). Please do follow us as we will be communicating regularly through this site and also passing on other useful information from the local Media.
As discussed at the Christmas meeting, we are also currently developing a website for the OBF – watch this space!
Thank you for your time.
Regards,
Chandra Sharma
Dear Members & Colleagues,
May I take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy New and successful Year.
I recently met with Peter Turvey, Head of Street Services and he expressed concern over the fact that some businesses were abusing the positioning of the A Boards outside their premises. Below, I have listed the agreed actions following a meeting of the OBF with Peter – for the full list click here. It is imperative that we follow the directions below, otherwise this could result in legal action against the offenders. On a worst case scenario, the Council may also revert to it’s original suggestion of zero tolerance on A Boards which is something that none of us want.
The OBF has always stated that we will work with the Council and the compromise that we agreed was for the benefit of local traders, so we should not abuse or bend the rules. I am informed that the Council will start to enforce these guidelines from 1st February 2012. As all businesses in Orpington do not receive my emails, can I ask that you let your immediate neighbour(s) know.
Advertisement boards (“A”- boards)
- Shops and other businesses may wish to advertise their goods and services by placing an “A”- board on the footway.
- Where the footway is wide enough to accommodate a board and still allow for free flow of pedestrian traffic without hindrance, one board per business will be allowed and this must be placed abutting the building.
- Only standard-sized boards will be allowed, that is, those not exceeding 750mm x 750mm in footway area and 1200mm in height.
- The board is to display information only related to the adjacent business, that is, it cannot display information for a business in another location.
- Boards not meeting any of the above the requirements may be removed, without notice, possibly followed by legal action.
I am also pleased to advise you that the OBF is now on Twitter – our address is http://www.twitter.com/OrpBusForum ( or you can just type in @OrpBusForum into Twitter search if you have a Twitter account). Please do follow us as we will be communicating regularly through this site and also passing on other useful information from the local Media.
As discussed at the Christmas meeting, we are also currently developing a website for the OBF – watch this space!
Thank you for your time.
Regards,
Chandra Sharma
23 December 2011
Feedback from Ruth Barriskill of Orpington Methodist Church regarding the recent, very successful, Orpington Christmas Tree festival - click here.
Feedback from Ruth Barriskill of Orpington Methodist Church regarding the recent, very successful, Orpington Christmas Tree festival - click here.
30 November 2011
Annual Award
The OBF gives an annual award to people who have put in work ‘over and beyond’ their call of duty during the current calendar year. Past recipients have been Cheryl Curr and Gary Morris for their unstinting work in the town.
This year, it is being opened out to all Orpington based businesses to vote for anyone that they feel has done a lot for the Town. This could be anyone – from an individual or to a group. Please follow this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TBH9XS6 and complete the short survey so the prize can be awarded to the person who attracts the most votes.
Christmas Lights
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Christmas Lights switch on last week.
Cheryl Curr wishes to advise businesses in Orpington that, although the lights have been purchased for Orpington this year with funding from the Mayor's Outer London Fund, the agreement was that we would have an element of funding to go towards the scheme from local business.
Please can all businesses offer a small contribution towards the lights, however small. For example, if 50% of the businesses gave £10 each it would raise another £1300. So far only 7 businesses have put in a contribution.
Vacant Unit Survey
The latest survey by the Association of Town Centre Managers saw a national vacancy rate of 11.1%, which is a drop of 0.1% in comparison to the survey carried out in May/June earlier this year that recorded a national vacancy rate of 11.2%. Despite a couple of recent closures, Orpington seems to be doing fairly well compared to London and the National Average.
ATCM-Springboard Vacancy Rate Survey % Vacant ground floor units
Orpington 4.9%
London 8.2%
National (UK) 11.1%
% That are independents
Orpington
London 61.9%
National (UK) 44.6% Survey Date: October 2011
New unit application
Bromley Council has received an application from licensing for 107-109 High street, Matt’s old shop, Roman interiors, for a “Tokyo Shusi and Noodle Bar” ref 11/00830/LAPRE
Comments have to be returned by 14th December. Please check www.bromley.gov.uk for further details on this and other applications
Annual Award
The OBF gives an annual award to people who have put in work ‘over and beyond’ their call of duty during the current calendar year. Past recipients have been Cheryl Curr and Gary Morris for their unstinting work in the town.
This year, it is being opened out to all Orpington based businesses to vote for anyone that they feel has done a lot for the Town. This could be anyone – from an individual or to a group. Please follow this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TBH9XS6 and complete the short survey so the prize can be awarded to the person who attracts the most votes.
Christmas Lights
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Christmas Lights switch on last week.
Cheryl Curr wishes to advise businesses in Orpington that, although the lights have been purchased for Orpington this year with funding from the Mayor's Outer London Fund, the agreement was that we would have an element of funding to go towards the scheme from local business.
Please can all businesses offer a small contribution towards the lights, however small. For example, if 50% of the businesses gave £10 each it would raise another £1300. So far only 7 businesses have put in a contribution.
Vacant Unit Survey
The latest survey by the Association of Town Centre Managers saw a national vacancy rate of 11.1%, which is a drop of 0.1% in comparison to the survey carried out in May/June earlier this year that recorded a national vacancy rate of 11.2%. Despite a couple of recent closures, Orpington seems to be doing fairly well compared to London and the National Average.
ATCM-Springboard Vacancy Rate Survey % Vacant ground floor units
Orpington 4.9%
London 8.2%
National (UK) 11.1%
% That are independents
Orpington
London 61.9%
National (UK) 44.6% Survey Date: October 2011
New unit application
Bromley Council has received an application from licensing for 107-109 High street, Matt’s old shop, Roman interiors, for a “Tokyo Shusi and Noodle Bar” ref 11/00830/LAPRE
Comments have to be returned by 14th December. Please check www.bromley.gov.uk for further details on this and other applications
21 November 2011
Snow Friends for High Streets For this winter Bromley Council is providing, free of charge, salt supplies and shovels to business forums/associations, there are up to 20 packs available per business forum.
Please let Cheryl Curr know if you are willing and able to store the packs in ready for this winter. You can find out more about the scheme in the ‘Snow Friends’ leaflet.
Orpington Magazine
The Winter issue has now been distributed. Extra copies have been dropped off to Printing.com as normal – please feel free to collect some copies for distribution via your businesses.
Next OBF Meeting
The next meeting of the Orpington Business Forum will be held on Tuesday 13th December at 6pm – 8pm at the offices of Harris Hospiscare, Tregony Road, Orpington (near Orpington Hospital). We would encourage everyone to attend as there will be further updates on the BID proposal for Orpington. There are plenty of parking spaces available at Harris Hospicare. The papers for this meeting will be posted shortly.
Annual OBF award
As you may be aware, the OBF gives an annual award to people who have put in work ‘over and beyond’ their call of duty during the current calendar year. Past recipients have been Cheryl Curr and Gary Morris for their unstinting work in the town.
This year, we are opening this out to all Orpington based businesses to vote for anyone that they feel has done a lot for the Town. This could be anyone – from an individual or to a group. Could I ask everyone to follow this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TBH9XS6 and complete the short survey to help us award the prize to the person who attracts the most votes.
Xmas lights switch on
Join in the Orpington Christmas Celebrations, the Lights Switch On and Fireworks event is on Wednesday 23rd November from 4-7pm
Preparing your business for the Olympic games
An important document being circulated by the Mayor of London to help businesses prepare for the forthcoming Olympic games in 2012 can be downloaded by clicking on the link below:
Preparing for the Olympic Games 2012
Snow Friends for High Streets For this winter Bromley Council is providing, free of charge, salt supplies and shovels to business forums/associations, there are up to 20 packs available per business forum.
Please let Cheryl Curr know if you are willing and able to store the packs in ready for this winter. You can find out more about the scheme in the ‘Snow Friends’ leaflet.
Orpington Magazine
The Winter issue has now been distributed. Extra copies have been dropped off to Printing.com as normal – please feel free to collect some copies for distribution via your businesses.
Next OBF Meeting
The next meeting of the Orpington Business Forum will be held on Tuesday 13th December at 6pm – 8pm at the offices of Harris Hospiscare, Tregony Road, Orpington (near Orpington Hospital). We would encourage everyone to attend as there will be further updates on the BID proposal for Orpington. There are plenty of parking spaces available at Harris Hospicare. The papers for this meeting will be posted shortly.
Annual OBF award
As you may be aware, the OBF gives an annual award to people who have put in work ‘over and beyond’ their call of duty during the current calendar year. Past recipients have been Cheryl Curr and Gary Morris for their unstinting work in the town.
This year, we are opening this out to all Orpington based businesses to vote for anyone that they feel has done a lot for the Town. This could be anyone – from an individual or to a group. Could I ask everyone to follow this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TBH9XS6 and complete the short survey to help us award the prize to the person who attracts the most votes.
Xmas lights switch on
Join in the Orpington Christmas Celebrations, the Lights Switch On and Fireworks event is on Wednesday 23rd November from 4-7pm
Preparing your business for the Olympic games
An important document being circulated by the Mayor of London to help businesses prepare for the forthcoming Olympic games in 2012 can be downloaded by clicking on the link below:
Preparing for the Olympic Games 2012
6 October 2011 - Please note that the next meeting of the OBF will be held on TUESDAY 11TH OCTOBER 2011 at Clarkson Wright Jakes (Valiant House, 12 Knoll Rise BR6 0PG) commencing 6pm.
This is an extremely important meeting as we will be giving more details on the proposal for Orpington’s BID proposal (Business Improvement District). We will also be looking at possible timescales. This will affect all businesses within Orpington High Street from Tesco to Chislehurst Road. Please make every effort to come and to invite other businesses local to you, new and old to the meeting.
Agenda for 11 October and Minutes for 16 August
OBF Members - invite to HSBC Talking Business on 12 October
This is an extremely important meeting as we will be giving more details on the proposal for Orpington’s BID proposal (Business Improvement District). We will also be looking at possible timescales. This will affect all businesses within Orpington High Street from Tesco to Chislehurst Road. Please make every effort to come and to invite other businesses local to you, new and old to the meeting.
Agenda for 11 October and Minutes for 16 August
OBF Members - invite to HSBC Talking Business on 12 October
10 August 2011 - THE NEW DATE FOR THE NEXT MEETING IS NOW TUESDAY 16TH AUGUST 6pm at The Walnuts Leisure Centre (Kids Zone). The Agenda, plus Minutes for the last meeting can be downloaded by clicking on the links below. There is also Information to Businesses from the Metropolitan Police.
Agenda for 16 August and Minutes for 14 June
Agenda for 16 August and Minutes for 14 June
17 August 2011 - The meeting last night was well attended (about 30 out of just under 50) but more members from local businesses and community organisations will be very welcome.
Shakes & Sweets application for an A3 (restaurant) licence - 29 objections so far registered with Bromley Council.
Businesses affected by the rioting should contact Bromley Council - Eric Pickles has announced Riot Support Package for residents and businesses who have suffered from the riots.
Orpington Library - successful launch of newly refurbished library in July - 3 times as many visitors now using the library. Electronic boards will be available for organisations to advertise.
10 September - Fun Day in Priory Gardens with fun fair, birds of prey, refreshments and lots more. Hoping Spitfires will fly over during the afternoon.
£90,000 government grant - including £5,500 for Christmas spectacular and £29,000 for Christmas trees and lights over next 3 years.
Chislehurst Road bridge - unsafe so will be closed to traffic during repair works which will start on 7 November for a year. Diversions will be posted on the council website.
BID (Business Improvement District) - if awarded it could provide marketing and other services for businesses over the next 5 years. Tesco likely to contribute £46,000 to BID, if successful.
College Pastors will be launching in Orpington on 13 September as a first pilot, by the Street Pastors organisation. They will be college students who will act as pastors after college hours, to ensure students are safe and do not get into any trouble.
ORPINGTON FINEST COMPETITION WINNERS:
Best Business/Professional Services - Groom Barbering
Best Customer Services in Retail - Thornburrows (Furniture)
Food & Drink - Primo Caffe
Most Innovative Window Display - Raw Hairdressers
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 11 October.
Shakes & Sweets application for an A3 (restaurant) licence - 29 objections so far registered with Bromley Council.
Businesses affected by the rioting should contact Bromley Council - Eric Pickles has announced Riot Support Package for residents and businesses who have suffered from the riots.
Orpington Library - successful launch of newly refurbished library in July - 3 times as many visitors now using the library. Electronic boards will be available for organisations to advertise.
10 September - Fun Day in Priory Gardens with fun fair, birds of prey, refreshments and lots more. Hoping Spitfires will fly over during the afternoon.
£90,000 government grant - including £5,500 for Christmas spectacular and £29,000 for Christmas trees and lights over next 3 years.
Chislehurst Road bridge - unsafe so will be closed to traffic during repair works which will start on 7 November for a year. Diversions will be posted on the council website.
BID (Business Improvement District) - if awarded it could provide marketing and other services for businesses over the next 5 years. Tesco likely to contribute £46,000 to BID, if successful.
College Pastors will be launching in Orpington on 13 September as a first pilot, by the Street Pastors organisation. They will be college students who will act as pastors after college hours, to ensure students are safe and do not get into any trouble.
ORPINGTON FINEST COMPETITION WINNERS:
Best Business/Professional Services - Groom Barbering
Best Customer Services in Retail - Thornburrows (Furniture)
Food & Drink - Primo Caffe
Most Innovative Window Display - Raw Hairdressers
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 11 October.
5 August 2011 - UPDATED 9 August
The meeting of the Orpington Business Forum which was to be held on TUESDAY 9TH AUGUST commencing 6.15pm was postponed due to the local civil unrest.
Chandra Sharma (Tangent Office Resources - Stationery dealer of the Year - Integra Awards 2010-2011) would like to see a good turnout. He states:
"There have been a number of key areas of discussion recently such as the BID proposal for Orpington, the Café Culture, a possible new A3 licence on the High Street – it is imperative that everyone attends this meeting as we have some very important information to share with you. And, if that’s not enough (!), we will also be announcing the winners of the Orpington’s Finest competition. Local media will be present, cameras in hand, so please make sure that you are there to receive your award!"
Please do invite your business neighbours and, in particular, any new businesses that have opened up on the High Street. If anyone knows the owners of Hisar Meze Bar, Ephesus, the new Lettings Company (former CHIPS store), Bathrooms 4 All, the new Dry Cleaning shop and any others, please invite them along to the meeting so that they can be introduced to the rest of the business community.
These meetings are primarily for businesses and community groups. The Business Forum has invited local residents' associations to meetings but, so far, without much success. Please come along and support them as, when working to get local authorities to act, a strong representative community group - including both residents and businesses - always has most impact.
The meeting of the Orpington Business Forum which was to be held on TUESDAY 9TH AUGUST commencing 6.15pm was postponed due to the local civil unrest.
Chandra Sharma (Tangent Office Resources - Stationery dealer of the Year - Integra Awards 2010-2011) would like to see a good turnout. He states:
"There have been a number of key areas of discussion recently such as the BID proposal for Orpington, the Café Culture, a possible new A3 licence on the High Street – it is imperative that everyone attends this meeting as we have some very important information to share with you. And, if that’s not enough (!), we will also be announcing the winners of the Orpington’s Finest competition. Local media will be present, cameras in hand, so please make sure that you are there to receive your award!"
Please do invite your business neighbours and, in particular, any new businesses that have opened up on the High Street. If anyone knows the owners of Hisar Meze Bar, Ephesus, the new Lettings Company (former CHIPS store), Bathrooms 4 All, the new Dry Cleaning shop and any others, please invite them along to the meeting so that they can be introduced to the rest of the business community.
These meetings are primarily for businesses and community groups. The Business Forum has invited local residents' associations to meetings but, so far, without much success. Please come along and support them as, when working to get local authorities to act, a strong representative community group - including both residents and businesses - always has most impact.