Bucks Chamber of Commerce Council

Alastair Pike President of Wycombe and South Bucks Chamber of Commerce writes about the forthcoming plans to introduce a Buckinghamshire Chamber of Commerce

“Recent discussions with business colleagues have indicated that the Chamber’s voice needs to be widened across Buckinghamshire if it is to really support and influence a better business environment. Currently there are two separate Chambers, notably Aylesbury Vale and Wycombe & South Bucks. A county-wide Chamber, encompassing all key areas within Buckinghamshire, will immediately represent 264 member businesses bringing with it more influence. In addition to maintaining a strong focus on Aylesbury, High Wycombe and South Buckinghamshire the new chamber will seek to include the needs of businesses within Chiltern District and rural areas. Focus will be centred on key areas of influence including Transport, Skills, Regeneration, Retail, Infrastructure and Connectivity.

The new Chamber will seek to work closely with Bucks County Council who are committed to offering regular briefings to the business community and Bucks Economic and Learning Partnership (BELP) who are responsible for investment, learning and economic development within the area. Additionally, the new Chamber plans to work closely with other membership organisations on policy. Thus far it has proven difficult to gauge a Buckinghamshire position. Under new plans the Buckinghamshire Chamber of Commerce will be able to campaign and lobby collectively with organisations such as the Institute of Directors and the Federation of Small Business, as well as groups representing other sectors”.

The first meeting of Buckinghamshire Chamber of Commerce will take place at the end of May. Alastair Pike has agreed to be the interim President until elections take place. If you would like to take an active role with the new Chamber please contact James Hay, TVCC’s Buckinghamshire Business Manager. jameshay@thamesvalleychamber.co.uk