Latest updates and stories from Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce and its Members

It’s that time of year again when we look back to the triumphs and tribulations of the past and raise a toast to the opportunities of the future. And from where we’re sitting, there’s much to report!

With the new year looming on the horizon and the economy finally getting back on track, with specialists predicting we will be back to a pre-Covid economy by December, now is the perfect time to be thinking about the future of your business and looking at your strategic plans for 2022 and beyond.

Here at the Chamber, we can provide you with specialist one-to-one support to help your business succeed and grow in 2022.  Read on to find out more.

Following parliamentary approval, the planning fee increase came into effect on Wednesday 17th January. All applications will now see an increase of 20% with key cost increases to note:

The planning system in England is more complex, costly and difficult for business than it was 5 years ago, according to a major report published today by the British Chambers of Commerce.

At Robinson & Hall we are firm believers in undertaking robust investigations into the deliverability and constraints surrounding a site prior to submitting any planning application. 

From October 2013 all newly built commercial property completed between 1st October 2013 and 30th September 2016 will be exempt from empty property rates for the first 18 months (up to the state aids limit).

Commenting on today’s announcement by the Department for Transport on High Speed 2, Dr Adam Marshall, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said:

London Luton Airport Operations Limited have launched a consultation on their vision for the future of the airport, and are seeking the feedback of all those who have an interest in its development and improvement. The airport is one of the region’s most important assets. It is currently the 5^th largest airport in the UK, was the fastest growing in 2011, and flies an increasing number of UK business passengers abroad on business.

Commenting on Danny Alexander's speech to the Liberal Democrat Party conference, John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce’s umbrella body, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has responded to the government’s housing and planning announcements by saying that liberalising restrictions is a step in the right direction.

Commenting on reports that the government’s consultation on aviation capacity will be delayed, Cheryl Smart MBE, Chief Executive of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce said:

Commenting on the announcement of new guarantee schemes to kick-start infrastructure projects and support exports,Cheryl Smart MBE, Chief Executive of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce said: