The Masthead January 2021

the

masthead

Official Magazine for South East London Chamber of Commerce - ISSUE 17

Opportunity Knocks for exporters in post-Brexit world New Property Group sector event

with Yildiz Betez Partner, Thackray Williams LLP

World-class jewel in the crown

• GREENWICH - Adapting and creating new ways of working in Royal Greenwich • LEWISHAM Lewisham Council provides 100 apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days • BROMLEY - Ambitious housing programme for borough of Bromley • BEXLEY - Business Awards celebrate the best of Bexley’s business community • SKILLS - London South East Colleges partners with NHS Trust to support its mission-critical vaccine roll out • CONSTRUCTION - Building a sustainable future • HEALTH & WELLBEING - Presenteeism prevails in COVID pandemic

with Richard Burge

LCCI

Law firms don’t solve problems, people do.

Bromley 020 8290 0440

London 020 8290 0440

West Wickham 020 8290 0440

Sevenoaks 01732 496 496

www.thackraywilliams.com

Welcome 3

find

inside Adapting and creating new ways of working in Royal Greenwich

8

20-21

Education & Skills

7 Economy

25-27

Big Interview

8-9

Focus on Greenwich

28-29

Chamber Events

10

Strategic Partners News

30-31

Property Group

11

Focus on Lewisham

32-35 Export

13

Focus on Bromley

36-43 Construction

5

College partners with NHS Trust to support its ‘mission-critical’ vaccine roll out

20

Chamber News

14 News

46 Finance

15

Focus on Bexley

47

Health & Wellbeing

16-17

Visit Greenwich

50

New Members

18-19

LCCI Richard Burge

50

and finally...

Local regeneration brings new year cheer

36

...and finally.

Photographer Warren King

50

Welcome to The Masthead

the South East London Chamber of Commerce magazine. is working closely with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry and we have an interview with CEO, Richard Burge on Page 18 London as a World Class Jewel in the Crown.

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e are at the beginning of a new year and if life had not changed enough during 2020, we are now outside of Europe, but thankfully with a last-minute deal. SELCC Editorial and General Enquiries South East London Chamber of Commerce Unit TW/145, Trinity Wharf, Harrington Way Warspite Road London SE18 5NR Tel: 020 8317 3365 Email: office@selondonchamber.org

www.selondonchamber.org

@SELondonChamber

@SELondonChamber South East London Chamber of Commerce

Last November, I was elected as chair of London’s Local Chambers, a collective of the various chambers across Greater London and I am working closely with Richard on expanding the work of the chamber community. In the next issue of Masthead, I look forward to unveiling some new member benefits for SELCC. Returning to Europe, in this Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published: January 2021 © Benham Publishing

issue, there is more to read on exports from LCCI and the British Chambers of Commerce who are the overall guardian of the chamber community.

We have some exciting events planned including the first SELCC Property Group Webinar which is taking place on Zoom on Tuesday, 26 January. This is free to attend and the second Webinar is being planned for Tuesday, 27 April. The Property Group is our first sectoral event and led by my fellow director, Yildiz Betez, partner at Thackray Williams LLP who is the subject of the Big Interview on page 25.

Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1853 Disclaimer The Masthead is published for South East London Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members.

We are working closely with Strategic Partner, LSEC on the government’s Kickstart Scheme. There have been a few delays from our end on this excellent job placement scheme for young people, but we are about to submit our first bid as a collective gateway. Finally, on government schemes, I am really liking the Skills Initiative where we are encouraged to sign up for one hour a week to upskill. See page 11. I am signing up for some muchneeded new year upskilling.

Helen McIntosh FCIPR President All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at South East London Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in The Masthead are not necessarily those of South East London Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2021 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility forthe veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

January 2021

200

EST. 1820

YEARS

OF INSURANCE

NAVIGATING A HARD INSURANCE MARKET Over the coming months you might hear insurers refer to the challenges presented by a ‘hardening market’, but what does that mean and how might that impact your business?

David Randle, Managing Director at Tysers Insurance Brokers headquartered in London offers guidance and advice to business owners.

WHAT IS A HARD MARKET? Insurers operate in a cyclical market that runs from ‘soft’ to ‘hard’.

Soft markets are characterised by lower premium rates, better levels of coverage, flexibility of terms, more availability and stiffer competition among insurers. All these factors present favourable procurement conditions for business owners.

In contrast, in a hard market there is less desire for growth, insurers lose their appetite, competition reduces, premiums increase and terms and conditions of coverage are more restrictive. This environment is challenging to (re)insurers, brokers and business owners alike.

WHAT CAUSES A HARD MARKET? A hard market occurs when positive financial results are difficult to achieve for (re)insurers. Several elements may combine to cause a hardening market including (but not limited to): Falling investment returns for insurers; £

Insurers paying out more in losses and expenses than they are collecting in premium; Changes in the frequency and severity of insured catastrophes; Regulatory intervention; Increasing reinsurance costs; and An increase in fraud.

HARD MARKET CHARACTERISTICS

Less choice Reduced cover Increasing premiums Reduced premiums Flexibility of cover More choice

SOFT MARKET CHARACTERISTICS

WHAT ARE THE CURRENT MARKET CONDITIONS? At the start of 2020 it was predicted that the biggest challenge when purchasing or renewing business insurance, would be the increasingly hardening market, as rates were already rising for almost all product lines.

It’s currently difficult to anticipate how insurers might now be further financially impacted by the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic.

What is clear is that the market will continue to harden as we enter 2021 and beyond.

HOW CAN BUSINESSES NAVIGATE A HARD MARKET? The insurance market is set to become more challenging for buyers, it’s therefore important to make the time to review your current arrangements so, start the renewal process early to secure the best value coverage.

There are benefits to utilising the services of a trusted local broker, including premises visits and face-to-face meetings, to inform a detailed knowledge of your business and to develop a comprehensive insurer presentation.

Tysers has a team of expert brokers based in their City of London offices.

A well-established broker brings access to a wide variety of markets and product lines, including the specialist Lloyd’s market. Strong market relationships are important in a challenging marketplace.

Tysers has been delivering insurance solutions to businesses for more than 200 years and places circa. £2.75bn into insurance markets annually, which provides strong negotiation leverage.

Businesses operating in the European Economic Area should select a broker with European passporting rights. Tysers’ Belgium office can help companies looking to place their European risks.

A reputable broker will support your risk management programme, ensure adequate coverage and help you select the most appropriate and secure insurers.

If you need support through these challenging times, please contact Tysers.

GET IN TOUCH...  +44 (0)20 3037 8000  reception.fenchurch@tysers.com  Tysers, 71 Fenchurch Street, London, EC3M 4BS  www.tysers.com

Tysers Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 71 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 4BS. Registered Company No. 2957627 England.

Chamber News 5

College completes festive foodbank campaign London South East Colleges’ career pathway director, Stuart Blackmore, completed a marathon dash around the college’s Bexley Campus to fill almost three shopping trollies with emergency food and grocery items for donation to local food banks.

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his was the culmination of three months’ worth of tireless campaigning inside and outside of the college – enlisting twenty other UK FE college partners to raise more than £3,606 and collect around 16,944 items.

The initiative followed on from the college’s #FEFoodbankFriday campaign, which started in late March when the COVID-19 pandemic first struck. Many people around south east London found themselves becoming dependent on local foodbanks due to unemployment or forced into isolation – especially those with underlying health conditions. This campaign raised over £43,000 nationally.

In October, the campaign was re-launched with a festive theme after the COVID infection rate began to rise again and the country was once more subject to varying degrees of social distancing measures and lockdown.

Andrew Cox, group director of strategic growth and partnerships at London South East Colleges, has led the foodbank campaigns from the very beginning, coordinating them throughout the UK. He said: “I’m delighted that we finally reached the point where we could make those last deliveries in time for Christmas and knowing that we can feel a sense of collective pride in

what we have achieved. It’s marvellous to see how staff and students have worked together in the final couple of weeks with a Christmas panto recorded for download to staff and parents, the design and production of luxury food hampers, along with hair and beauty students putting together stocking fillers for sale in our salon at Bromley.”

“Many volunteers took part in a virtual Santa Dash to raise extra funds and Stuart’s trolley dash was the icing on the cake as far as the college’s own #FestiveFEFoodbank goes.

In just 40 minutes, he collected another 500 items kindly donated by staff and students around the campus.”

Everest Inn launches takeaway service An award-winning Nepalese restaurant has announced it is now offering a takeaway and home delivery service in a bid to keep business going during the pandemic.

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verest Inn Blackheath launched the service in response to continued demand for its Nepalese and Indian cuisine amid a tightening of coronavirus restrictions across London.

at the same time we will continue to support our local frontline workers. The hospitality industry has been severely impacted and so we also need your support more than ever during these difficult times.

Yadav Bhandari, owner of Everest Inn and valued board member of SELCC, said: “We are doing everything to support our local community by offering takeaways and deliveries, while

“Whether you order from the Everest Inn or with another local business family, you would be supporting the industry so that we can hopefully get back to normality soon. It’s time for

every individual to play their part now more than ever.”

The restaurant has a strong reputation for serving the best Indian and Nepalese food in the Blackheath area. Everest Inn Blackheath and the rest of the group have been given many awards over several years for their excellence in the provision of quality cuisine to all of their customers.

TfL fares to rise The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has confirmed that Transport for London (TfL) fares under his control will rise by an overall 2.6%, as a condition of the emergency TfL funding deal made with the Government in October.

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he changes will come into effect on March 1, 2021, in line with government changes to national rail fares, which will rise by the same percentage on the same date.

The increase, which the mayor was forced to accept as part of the emergency funding deal with the Government after TfL finances were decimated by the coronavirus pandemic, is the first time that fares will have gone up in almost five years since he was elected in May 2016.

Introduced by the mayor in 2016, the four-year TfL fare freeze has saved Londoners more than £200 and helped to encourage public transport use across the city – in stark contrast to the previous Mayor, under whom fares rose by 42%, making them the most expensive in Europe.

Sadiq Khan said: “I was forced to agree to a Government RPI [retail prices index] +1% increase in fares back in May to get the essential grant and loan from the government for the first emergency TfL funding deal.

“I am pleased that in the latest round of negotiations in October I was able to fight off some of the very worst government proposals, including an even higher fare increase than this one.

“This is the first fares rise since I have been mayor and I have ensured it is one of the lowest fares increases in London over the last 20 years. I had no choice other than to agree to this government condition if London’s tubes and buses were to keep running.”

The details of specific fare changes will be published in due course.

January 2021

6

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We are open for business and for new bookings Weddings - Birthday Parties - Corporate Away Days - Venue Hire - Sport Facilities

Find out more by visiting www.stdunstansenterprises.org.uk or by calling 020 8690 1111. We are following all Government regulations.

January 2021

Economy 7

Lockdown support for beleaguered businesses The government has announced a further raft of financial support measures to help businesses through the latest national lockdown.

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ngland went into its third lockdown in early January as coronavirus cases soared and hospitals came under intense pressure. With all non-essential businesses forced to close once again, the government unveiled a £4.6 billion package of support which included one-off grants worth up to £9,000 for businesses in the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors. There was also a £594 million discretionary fund to support other businesses impacted by the latest lockdown.

This support is in addition to business rates relief and the furlough scheme, which has been extended until the end of April.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) welcomed the support but said it needed to go further. BCC director general Adam Marshall said: “While this immediate cash flow support for business is welcome, it is not going to be enough to save many firms. We need to see a clear support package for the whole of 2021, not just another incremental intervention.

“The government must move away from this drip-feed approach and set out a long-term plan that allows all businesses of all shapes and sizes to plan, and ultimately survive.

“Many smaller firms won’t qualify for the full headline amounts set out in the Chancellor’s statement, and will be left struggling to see how this new top-up grant will help them out of their cashflow problems.

“Support must be sufficient to cover not just those on the front line of retail, hospitality and leisure, but also firms in supply chains

and wider business communities who are also feeling the devastating impacts of these restrictions.”

The third lockdown is expected to heap more pressure on businesses already struggling to cope with enforced restrictions and temporary closures due to previous lockdowns in 2020.

The BCC’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) – the UK’s largest independent survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth – found that business conditions remained weak in the fourth quarter of last year as the second lockdown squeezed activity.

The bellwether survey of 6,203 firms, which employ nearly a million people across the UK, revealed that there was no fundamental improvement in the key indicators in Q4 and they remain well below pre-crisis levels.

Nearly one half of firms (43%) reported a decrease in domestic sales, 45% said the volume of their domestic orders had fallen and 38% saw a drop in export sales.

Business-to-consumer (B2C) firms saw the largest falls in domestic sales in the quarter.

Over three quarters (79%) of respondents in the hospitality and catering sectors reported decreases, compared to 66% in Q3 and 94% in Q2, underlining the impact that lockdowns and forced closures have had on demand.

However, the survey revealed that sectors that have continued their operations through the pandemic, and/or shifted their operating models to remote working, also have a higher proportion of firms reporting decreased sales. For instance, 53% of transport and distribution firms and 44% of marketing/media firms reported a drop in sales, well above pre-pandemic levels of 29% and 23% reporting decreases in Q1 2020 respectively.

Cashflow – a key indicator of business health – continued to deteriorate for 43% of firms overall in Q4 2020, with 77% of hotels and catering firms surveyed reporting a decrease in the period.

Continued uncertainty around further lockdowns and restrictions, as well as the many unanswered questions on Brexit, have caused businesses considerable distress, with some saying they are worried about the long-term viability of their business.

Suren Thiru, head of economics at the BCC, said: “These results indicate that economic activity was strikingly downbeat in the final quarter of 2020 as the re-introduction of tighter coronavirus restrictions weighed heavily on the key drivers of growth.

“The services sector endured a particularly difficult quarter, with consumer-facing businesses most severely exposed to the renewed restrictions. Although manufacturing firms had a moderately better end to 2020, this more likely reflects a temporary boost from Brexit stockpiling rather than evidence of a recovery in the sector. The persistent weakness in investment intentions is a particular concern, as it limits the UK’s productivity and growth potential.

“Though the vaccine rollout provides real optimism, a new national lockdown means that a significant double-dip recession in the first quarter of this year is looking increasingly likely.”

“The BCC’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) – the UK’s largest independent survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth – found that business conditions remained weak in the fourth quarter of last year as the second lockdown squeezed activity.”

January 2021

8 Focus on Greenwich

Adapting and creating new ways of working in Royal Greenwich There are many reasons why a business might need to adapt, but few are as urgent or unsettling as a global pandemic. Royal Greenwich businesses have gone above and beyond, not only to adapt the way they do things to stay afloat, but to help the local and wider communities around them.

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dapting can be especially difficult for businesses but has become essential in recent months. Many cafes, pubs and restaurants in Greenwich – and across the borough – have changed their business models to offer takeaway or delivery options to customers. Some applied for pavement licenses for the first time, changed their menus and ramped up their social media campaigns to great effect.

Other businesses, like Create 180 Ltd in Greenwich who specialise in set and

January 2021

costume design for TV and theatre, were able to support the COVID-19 effort by making PPE visors for the NHS and care workers during the first lockdown. Mo-sys, also based in Greenwich, developed ‘Live Lab’ technology to simulate live crowds and backgrounds for TV production companies while live studio audiences are not allowed.

Time will tell how much of an impact these changes will have, but the council is determined to help local businesses however it can.

Many have put themselves online for the first time, so we’ve been encouraging residents to check if they can buy what they need locally and there’s a list of online shops in the borough on our website at www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/shoplocal Businesses can access free support to get online with the e-business service, from South East Enterprise.

For further information visit: www.seenterprise.co.uk/ ebusinessChristmas

Focus on Greenwich

‘Adapting can be especially difficult for businesses but has become essential in recent months. Many cafes, pubs and restaurants in Greenwich – and across the borough – have changed their business models to offer takeaway or delivery options to customers.’

Christmas Markets Many cities took the difficult decision to cancel their Christmas markets in 2020 but Greenwich Market was open for business over the festive shopping period, along with Woolwich, Eltham and Thamesmead. Greenwich Market was expanded into Cutty Sark Gardens to accommodate more shoppers and to make sure social distancing could be maintained.

Greenwich Market was also treated to a visit from the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan in December. He went to some of our cultural venues but also some of the pubs, bars and restaurants in the area. Market vendors showed him how they’ve made their stalls COVID-safe using screens and contactless card readers, and his message to Londoners was to support local businesses but to do it safely. He echoed the message from Cllr Danny Thorpe, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich and acknowledged the difficult year businesses had had, encouraging us to do our bit to safely support them.

New ways of working

Another reason for businesses to adapt to new ways of working is the climate emergency. The Royal Borough of Greenwich declared a climate emergency in 2019 and agreed to set an ambitious target to reach net zero carbon emissions 20 years ahead of the national target. We’ve published our draft Carbon Neutral Plan which sets out what changes we’ll make and what actions are necessary to make sure we reach our ambitious target of becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2030.

The largest sources of emissions in the borough are the heat and electricity used in buildings and the fuel used in road transport. Short term changes such as reducing car, van and HGV use and encouraging the use of low emissions vehicles, are something that businesses will need to adapt to, like all of us. At the council, our ambition is to have a 100% zero emissions vehicle fleet by 2030 and we’ve already started making the switch.

It is essential that residents, businesses and organisations take shared ownership of the draft carbon neutral plan with the council to jointly make the changes that will be required over the next ten years. Look out for a consultation on the draft plan for the opportunity to have your say and shape the final plan.

For many, where we work is also changing, and not just because of the pandemic. Flexible workspace, which is available to people on demand, has seen a big increase in recent years and will be coming to Greenwich this year. Arbeit Studios, one of Royal Greenwich’s accredited workspace providers, make creative spaces for artists, designers, small businesses and start-ups. They’ll be transforming the site of the former Iceland shop on Trafalgar Road, SE10 soon, so watch this space.

For further information, visit: https://www.arbeit.org.uk/

‘Short term changes such as reducing car, van and HGV use and encouraging the use of low emissions vehicles, are something that businesses will need to adapt to, like all of us. At the council, our ambition is to have a 100% zero emissions vehicle fleet by 2030 and we’ve already started making the switch.’

January 2021

9

10 Strategic Partners News

Misuse of brownfield land registers are hindering development As many as 348,000 homes could be built on brownfield land that is not being registered as available for development due to problems with the quality of the data in the planning system.

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hese are the findings of a new report by regeneration specialist U+I.

The report sheds new light on the quality of data submitted through brownfield land registers (BLRs) following research undertaken earlier this year. In the areas studied, it found that 348,000 new homes could be built on unregistered land, amounting to nearly 29% of housing need by 2030.

Brownfield land registers are compiled and maintained by local authorities to provide public information about the availability of brownfield land, which is land that has previously been built on and now sits vacant. Private companies use BLRs to identify potential development sites and bring forward new housing schemes.

However, U+I’s research found a lack of clarity and consistency in how data is uploaded to BLRs within several local authorities, leading to serious distortions in the industry’s understanding of brownfield land availability, hindering development and preventing the construction of new homes.

January 2021

Their investigation found that across the country there is a divergence in the way local authorities complete these registers, which means many are including sites unsuitable for redevelopment, omitting suitable sites because of a lack of clear guidance, or incorrectly assigning site ownership.

U+I has called on the government to establish a digital taskforce to create a data-led planning system that streamlines the development process for all parties.

Members would be drawn from local government, property development and PropTech, to collaboratively drive innovation and change across the industry.

Dr Malcolm Hockaday, director of planning at U+I, said: “If we are to recover our economy from the devastating impact of COVID-19, the government must make good on its commitment to deliver a digital-first planning system, underpinned by robust and accurate data. We need this data to understand where there’s a need for new housing and investment and support local authorities that want to build new communities and reinvigorate leftbehind places.”

“U+I has called on the government to establish a digital taskforce to create a data-led planning system that streamlines the development process for all parties.”

Focus on Lewisham 11

Government launches skills initiative A new campaign has been launched to boost the nation’s skills and job prospects.

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n Hour to Skill is a governmentled initiative that encourages people to set aside one hour a week for online learning by taking a free course from The Skills Toolkit, an online portal offering a range of different courses.

Topics covered range from practical maths, computer essentials and personal growth and wellbeing to professional development, business and finance, digital design, marketing, computer science and coding. Course providers include The Open University, Google, Amazon and FutureLearn.

The idea is that by setting aside one hour a week for online learning, people can acquire skills that employers are looking for, boost their job prospects and keep their mind active. At a time when most people are spending more time indoors due to COVID-19, these courses can also play an important role in supporting the mental wellbeing of the country.

Launched by the Department for Education (DfE), the initiative is designed to improve the life prospects of

people by helping them to get on in their careers.

One in three people have used online learning to help them get a better job, and a report published by thinktank Demos showed that, on average, online learning can boost annual pay by £3,640.

Many people have turned to web-based courses to brush up on their technical skills or acquire softer skills and attributes that employers are looking for, such as leadership, problem-solving, project management and teamworking skills.

Gillian Keegan, minister for apprenticeships and skills, said: “I’m delighted to launch An Hour to Skill and thank all of the great organisations that have joined forces to help boost the nation’s skills and job prospects at such an important time for our economy.

Progressing your learning doesn’t have to be a mammoth task – spending just one hour a week on a free online course can make a real difference to your earning potential.

We’re confident that learning through The Skills Toolkit can give you the skills employers are looking for.”

For more information visit https://theskillstoolkit.campaign.gov.uk/#ldn

Lewisham Council smashes apprenticeships target Lewisham Council has announced it has met its goal of providing 100 apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days.

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he council launched the ambitious campaign last summer with the aim of ensuring that residents had access to quality training and employment opportunities, even during the uncertainty of the pandemic.

Thanks to the support of local businesses, the target has now been exceeded.

At the last count, more than 170 apprenticeship vacancies have been advertised, with opportunities across a variety of sectors such as public health, retail, publishing and engineering.The council said it would continue to support employers to take

on apprentices through the Mayor’s Apprenticeship Programme.

Any local business that takes on a new apprentice before the end of March can benefit from a hiring incentive of up to £2,000 plus access to apprenticeship levy funds and support with recruitment.

Apprentices are seen as an excellent source of fresh new talent and a costeffective way of creating a flexible and committed workforce. Their skills can be cultivated and developed to meet the specific needs of employers over a relatively short period of time.

‘Any local business that takes on a new apprentice before the end of March can benefit from a hiring incentive of up to £2,000plus access to apprenticeship levy funds andsupport with recruitment.’

January 2021

12 Your Bromley

YOUR BROMLEY is the

Business Improvement District (BID) for Bromley Town Centre It is a business led and business funded scheme to improve Bromley Town Centre through additional services and new initiatives and aims to promote Bromley to visitors old and new. The BID has been running for five years and there will be a reballot this year.

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ur team members have been sharing their experiences of the last five years and explaining why they feel a yes vote from Bromley businesses is important for Bromley. Today we hear from Deputy BID Manager, Zoe Griffiths.

My name is Zoe Griffiths, and I am the Deputy BID Manager for Your Bromley.

Over the past five years the BID has engaged with all our businesses – from independents to premium retail chains, professional services and our offices – creating activity that all of these businesses can get involved with, and that is designed to help and support them all. We have also initiated a networking community for Bromley businesses to interact with each other.

Most recently I’m really proud of the dedicated support we’ve been able to offer to our local economy during COVID. We have helped businesses access funding and, in some cases, even helped some unlock more funds than they had thought were available to them.

Bromley is one of the top 50 retail destinations in the UK and I’m looking forward to helping the town maintain and build on that reputation over the next five years. Our new business plan will see a continuation of existing programmes, like recycling and chewing gum cleaning, that help make the town centre a clean and welcoming environment for businesses, employees and visitors. It will also see us deliver activities designed to attract more

visitors to the town centre. Our experienceled plan will celebrate the heritage of the town by creating pop-up arts moments and installations. Continuing to fund the Christmas Lights will also remain a key part of our activity.

In addition to the events programme we will also be shining a light on individual businesses, highlighting their Corporate Social Responsibility efforts and sharing CSR opportunities, matching businesses with the right people to help them achieve their aims in this important area. We also plan to introduce a staff loyalty scheme that will help Bromley businesses attract and retain quality staff, making working in the town more appealing than ever.

Over the last five years the BID has achieved a great deal. We have provided over 4,000 additional policing hours, recovered over £30,000 of stolen stock, saved businesses over £30,000 in

recycling costs, cleaned over 14,000 square miles of chewing gum, provided the Christmas tree and lights for five years, and held many events designed to increase town centre footfall. These are all things that make a real difference to businesses in Bromley.

A Yes vote is a vote for a continuation of these services and even more exciting new activities to help Bromley businesses and appeal to visitors, both now and in the future.

A Yes vote means we can continue to provide a dedicated presence acting in the best interests of Bromley businesses to help the local economy recover from the current pandemic.

“Our new business plan will see a continuation of existing programmes, like recycling and chewing gum cleaning, that help make the town centre a clean and welcoming environment for businesses, employees and visitors. It will also see us deliver activities designed to attract more visitors to the town centre.”

January 2021

Focus on Bromley

13

Ambitious housing programme for borough of Bromley Bromley Council is progressing with its ambitious housing programme to support and boost affordable housing supply within the borough.

The development aims to begin within the first few months of the new year and to be completed by the end of summer.

The project will use high quality materials that promote a simple and robust detailing. The homes will also provide generous living spaces with good daylight and natural ventilation, along with modern energy saving technology such as electric car charging points and sources of renewable energy.

Images of proposed development in situ

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wo exciting new affordable housing projects have been granted planning permission in November 2020. The developments are for 25 new homes in Chislehurst and for 10 new homes in Anerley.

These projects are located on the former site of Banbury House in Bushell Way, Chislehurst and in the overflow car park of Anerley Town Hall. The Bushell Way development is for 8 one-bed and 17 two-bed flats, alongside 18 car parking spaces, including 3 disabled spaces. The Anerley site is made up of 4 one-bed and 6 two-bed flats that will create new access onto George Groves Road and provide 7 new off-street parking spaces, cycle spaces and associated amenity space.

The developments were approved at Bromley Council’s Development Control Committee on Thursday 19 November.

Both these developments are for modular housing, which is constructed primarily off-site and then assembled on-site, allowing these developments to be delivered relatively quickly and with less onsite traffic and disruptions than a traditional development.

After these developments were approved, Councillor Peter Morgan, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, said: “This is yet more welcome news that shows Bromley Council is creating much-needed additional housing supply, thus providing homes for families in need. By increasing the housing supply, we can also reduce the present but unsatisfactory need to put families in nightly paid accommodation, which is also highly expensive. We will now press ahead to complete these developments as soon as possible.”

The Council’s Culture and Regeneration Team have worked with developers M-AR to advance these projects, which will provide 100% affordable housing for Bromley residents, helping to meet

the targets set out in Bromley Council’s Housing Strategy, which aims to build or purchase 1,000 homes over the next four years to help address the needs of Bromley residents.

Amanda Grimbleby, Business Development and Partnerships Director from M-AR, the contractor said: “M-AR and our partners are delighted to be involved with these projects to deliver much needed affordable, quality, family homes for Bromley Council.

These developments will utilise renewable energy sources and support residents with their travel options by providing ample secure bicycle storage and infrastructure for electric car charging.

We’re really excited to see these projects commence on site early in the new year!”

These projects follow shortly after the Council’s modular housing development in the Burnt Ash Lane car park, which will deliver a further 25 affordable homes in Bromley. This project aims to begin construction in February and to be completed in September, when 69 public parking spaces will reopen in the car park alongside 15 residential spaces and new electric car charging points.

“This is yet more welcome news that shows Bromley Council is creating much-needed additional housing supply, thus providing homes for families in need. By increasing the housing supply, we can also reduce the present but unsatisfactory need to put families in nightly paid accommodation, which is also highly expensive.”

January 2021

14 News

T

he NHS in south east London is very busy due to rising coronavirus infection rates, but we’ll still help you get urgent care when you need it.

GPs are providing more appointments for patients with urgent health needs, including evenings and weekends.

Contact your own practice and they will tell you how to arrange local, sameday appointments if you need urgent care. There may be some disruption to non-urgent services over the next two weeks as practices respond to urgent care requests. However, please do not contact your GP practice or other NHS service to enquire about the COVID-19 vaccine or when you might receive it. If you would like information on the vaccine please visit the NHS South East London CCG website. https://selondonccg.nhs.uk/what-we-do/ covid-19/ Your pharmacies are also available to provide advice and support or you can contact NHS 111, day or night, for other urgent health advice – including if you have concerns about COVID-19 symptoms. They will be able to ensure that you receive the care that you need, including booking urgent GP or hospital appointments.

Please remember that 999 and A&E are for medical emergencies only.

Please follow SE London CCG on Facebook and Twitter accounts and share our messages there with your contacts: https://www.facebook.com/ nhsselondonccg

TFL awards Royal Greenwich £711,000 for greener transport projects The Royal Borough of Greenwich has secured more than £711,000 of funding from Transport for London (TfL) to invest in a range of projects to make its roads safer and greener.

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he funding follows on from £1.27million already awarded to Royal Greenwich, earlier in the year, for emergency measures that were delivered rapidly to support social distancing.

Individual projects in this round are still to be confirmed by TfL but include a range of measures to make walking and cycling more attractive. These include tackling unacceptable levels of traffic in high priority areas, rolling out more street closures around schools, cycle safety initiatives, new 20mph zones and supporting those at higher risk of road collisions.

Cllr Danny Thorpe, leader of Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “This funding from TfL is fantastic news for the borough, our streets and our health. Data shows that if the journeys made by public transport before the pandemic are made by car instead, traffic in London could increase by 40-50%. So, it’s vital we provide safe, car-free alternatives to public transport to avert “carmageddon” and meet our carbon reduction pledges.

“We expect TfL to confirm the details of our funding in the coming weeks and will start engagement on these schemes as soon as possible after that.”

Further funding from TfL is also available to allow the council to start designing and consulting on new cycleways.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich declared a climate emergency in 2019 and agreed to set an ambitious target to reach net zero carbon emissions 20 years ahead of the national target. The council has now published a draft carbon-neutral plan based on what residents think its priorities should be, the evidence base report and what steps are necessary to achieve it.

More help available for Bexley’s small businesses Grant schemes for small businesses whose incomes have been significantly affected by COVID-19 restrictions have been announced by Bexley Council.

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usinesses in the hospitality, accommodation or leisure sectors that have been required to close or have been impacted by the move into the national tiering system may be eligible for a local restriction grant payment based upon the rateable value of their premises and qualifying criteria.

There was also a Christmas support payment of £1,000 for wet-led pubs, made available in December. Alongside these local grants, Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) funding has been

introduced to help businesses that are not eligible for any of the other support grants, as well as those operating in sectors that are particularly vulnerable in the London Borough of Bexley.

Councillor Louie French, deputy leader and cabinet member for growth at London Borough of Bexley, said: “We are pleased to be able to open three further funding schemes for small and micro businesses that don’t qualify for other funding and for those hit hardest by COVID.

January 2021

“We are particularly keen to support the leisure and hospitality sector, especially independent pubs, bars and licensed sports and social clubs that are so important to our town centres and local communities. If you think you may be eligible for any of these grants, please act quickly and apply via our website, taking care to provide full and accurate information.”

The Bexley ARG scheme comprises four grants for specific categories of business:

non-ratepayer businesses closed due to the recent national lockdown; businesses indirectly impacted by lockdown closures; one-person businesses that can demonstrate significant hardship as a result of COVID-19 and a top-up support package for independent pubs, bars and licensed sports and social clubs.

Eligible businesses could receive a grant of between £1,000 and £14,000 depending on the type and size of the business.

Focus on Bexley 15

Business Awards celebrate the best of Bexley’s business community

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exley’s business resilience and employers’ and entrepreneurs’ dedication in continuing to deliver for their customers and community was celebrated at an awards ceremony, held virtually at the end of last year.

More than 220 guests logged in to their computers, tablets and phones for the 2020 edition of the Bexley Business Excellence Awards – which was being held virtually for the first time.

The awards evening saw 12 categories decided, as well as the Bexley Business of the Year Award, which was picked up by The Elephant Pub & Restaurant.

A total of 126 entries were submitted for the awards from 73 businesses, highlighting the borough’s resilience in a year dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The annual Awards programme is sponsored by Ocado, Event Partners London Borough of Bexley and Bexley for Business, Aitch Group, Bellway Homes, Bexleyheath BID, Crayford Greyhound Track, Learning & Enterprise College Bexley, London South East Colleges, Orbit and supported by Insight 6, Maid on a Mission, Mobile Bar Hire, Northgate Public Services, The Engine House.

Free Webinar support Explore the Green Agenda

Join our Circular Economy Business Masterclass and learn how circular economy could create new opportunities for your business.

25th February 2021, 10.00 - 13.00 • What is the circular economy?

• Circular economy in action • How to map your business activities & identify circular opportunities • Networking Register at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ circular-economy-businessmasterclass-tickets-133984911477

One to One Business Information Sessions

Are you thinking of becoming selfemployed, starting a new business or have an early stage business you want to grow?

Register below for a One to One meeting with the Start-ups in London Libraries SME Champion in Bexley, Ioanna Lymperaki.

Use the sessions to:

• Identify your business information needs and discover what support is available • Create an Action plan to help you progress in your goal of starting your business

• Receive help in researching your business idea

These sessions require prior booking so please “Select a Date” and then register in one of the available time slots here https://bexley-library-startups121sessions.eventbrite.co.uk The page is continually updated with new dates and times.

Once you register our SME Champion will send you the Microsoft Teams Link you will need to use to connect for your appointment.

The sessions are part of the Start-ups in London Libraries programme.

The project is fully funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the British Library, ten participating London boroughs and generously supported by JP Morgan and Arts Council England

Grants Online

A number of Community Foundations and other organisations have launched funding programmes to assist local organisations in responding to the challenges of the Coronavirus Pandemic.

This list will be updated as and when information becomes available.

For more information visit: https://www.grantsonline.org.uk/ coronavirus.html

January 2021

16 Visit Greenwich

Visit Greenwich steps up global marketing drive The Royal Borough of Greenwich contains some of the country’s most enviable cultural and tourist attractions.

I

t’s home to the Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Old Royal Naval College (including the fabulous Painted Hall), as well as London’s cable car, Greenwich Market, Greenwich Park and The O2. In addition, the borough boasts many fantastic, world class venues available for conferences, meetings and social occasions.

Visit Greenwich is the organisation responsible for promoting the borough’s cultural offering regionally, nationally and globally. That’s a difficult task in the

January 2021

current pandemic, with tourism largely halted due to restrictions on movement between and within regions. VisitBritain estimates that the number of visitors to the UK plummeted 76% in 2020, with spending falling 80% to £5.7 billion.

However, the tourism organisation predicts a strong rebound this year, with visitor numbers up by 73% on 2020 levels and spending rising by 59%.

Against this backdrop of cautious optimism, Visit Greenwich has stepped up its efforts to forge links with businesses across the world.

The organisation has secured

£4,000 from the London Growth Hub to drive forward its travel trade strategy, which will involve building relationships with travel trade partners and suppliers across the world.

Barrie Kelly, CEO of Visit Greenwich, says: “We’re trying to identify new markets and work out what they look like. While China may hold fewer opportunities in the short term, there’s a lot of potential in countries such as France, Germany, USA and Canada.

We want to go for high-quality markets that offer opportunities for ongoing trade and repeat business.

Visit Greenwich 17

Photo Credit: Royal Museums Greenwich

“We’re trying to identify new markets and work out what they look like. While China may hold fewer opportunities in the short term, there’s a lot of potential in countries such as France, Germany, USA and Canada.

We want to go for high-quality markets that offer opportunities for ongoing trade and repeat business.”

“The challenge for us is to find opportunities to penetrate the markets we’ve identified. Which operators can we connect with and what’s the best way to build relationships with them?”

The other critical challenge in the current climate is how to repackage Greenwich, as a quality destination in a post-COVID world.

“Demand for travel will increase markedly after virus restrictions have been lifted,” says Barrie. “Our job is to work out what visitors want when they do come here. Our research tells us that a lot of younger people prefer All images were taken prior to the COVID pandemic.

to invest in experiences than just buy certain products. Millennials are keen to learn more about the places they visit. Rather than just buying a pint of Greenwich beer, for example, they want to see how the beer is made.

The O2’s socially distanced backstage tours of its arena, introduced last year, were so popular that the venue is looking to continue this service in 2021.”

Visit Greenwich is working with local employers to help them adapt to this evolving trend. Barrie says: “We are talking to Drury Tea & Coffee, Meantime Brewing Co and Made in Greenwich to

Photo Credit: UKinbound

create new immersive experiences that will appeal to millennial audiences.

We have attained Discover England / VisitEngland funding to market these to UK and USA. Businesses need to offer added value, especially in a world in which technology makes it easier to sell internationally. We’re working with tour operators to find out what consumers want, how much they’re willing to pay for it and how they would like the offer to be packaged. Then we can take this message to businesses in Greenwich and help them to adapt.”

January 2021

18 LCCI Richard Burge

“It’s clear that London, with its ten million people and 880,000 businesses, has the potential to influence the global debate on macro issues such as climate change, economic prosperity, poverty and social mobility. The size and diversity of its business community highlights the importance of having an organisation such as LCCI.�

January 2021

LCCI Richard Burge 19

World-class jewel in the crown It’s fair to say that Richard Burge has had a challenging year. Since he took over as CEO of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in February 2020, the world has been hit by the biggest health pandemic in living memory and lives and livelihoods have been turned upside down.

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ith many businesses hunkering down and just looking to survive in these difficult times, it seems slightly incongruous to embark on a mission to promote London as a premier destination for world trade – but that’s exactly what Richard is doing with great vigour and enthusiasm.

His belief is that if this message is marketed to the world effectively, the whole country stands to benefit.

“London is the jewel in our country’s crown,” he says. “It’s a pearl richer than all of its tribe and should be treated by Westminster as such. That’s not to say that London is more important than or separate from the rest of the country but if we don’t champion our best asset, the resulting wealth and job creation won’t filter to other parts of the country.

“In short, there can be no levelling up in the UK if London levels down. The growth of London is absolutely critical to the health of the national economy.”

While the UK capital is rightly viewed as an international financial services hub and primary gateway to Europe and beyond, Richard is keen to point out its other assets, including a growing number of small, indigenous businesses built on a culture of innovation and entrepreneurialism.

“London businesses are run by people who are hugely adventurous,” he says.

“There’s a marvellous sense of diversity here, although there needs to be a greater effort to be more inclusive.”

Richard’s words are based on a wealth of experience in international trade and global affairs, particularly in relation to social impact investment and the use of innovative technology. An independent advisor on international affairs, he has had a varied career that has seen him lead four multi-million-pound organisations including a famous charity, a UK government agency, a private company and a membership body over a total of 18 years.

He has been on the board and a nonexecutive director of five multi-millionpound operations and has worked in more than 55 countries, principally in emerging economies, specialising in Africa, the wider Commonwealth, and post-conflict situations.

He’s acutely aware of the challenges posed by Brexit, yet believes it’s time to look forward, not back.

“Brexit has happened, whether we like it or not,” he says. “The deal we have is better than no deal and now it’s time for London businesses – and businesses around the country – to seek opportunities to create jobs and foster growth. London is outward-looking, not just to Europe but to the rest of the world.

“It’s not simply a case of how London and the UK can benefit, either; how can our capital city add value to the world in terms of its social and economic impact, sustainability and inclusivity?”

It’s clear that London, with its ten million people and 880,000 businesses, has the potential to influence the global debate on macro issues such as climate change, economic prosperity, poverty and social mobility. The size and diversity of its business community highlights the importance of having an organisation such as LCCI in place to act as a focal point for companies and to build links with other Chambers that operate across London’s 32 boroughs. South East London Chamber of Commerce (SELCC) for example, is an affiliate of LCCI and its members can benefit from LCCI’s range of services, which include memberto-member marketing opportunities, unlimited access to legal and HR advice and the chance to be part of an extensive international trade mission programme.

Richard says: “There’s no way that one organisation can cater for the needs of every type of business in London. That’s why it’s vital that LCCI continues to work with SELCC, our other Chamber affiliates and the London’s Local Chambers (LLC) network to represent our businesses in the context of London as a world city.”

“While the UK capital is rightly viewed as an international financial services hub and primary gateway to Europe and beyond, Richard is keen to point out other its other assets, including a growing number of small, indigenous businesses built on a culture of innovation and entrepreneurialism.”

January 2021

20 Skills “We have been developing a strategic relationship with Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust for some time, supporting it to secure a pipeline of skills and ensuring our own students have access to exciting career opportunities within the healthcare sector.

Never has there been a better time to consider joining the NHS – and taking on a key role in defeating Covid-19.”

The first ten participants will start the Get Ready programme on Monday 7 December with the College aiming to attract over 300 people. Oxleas expects to enrol around 1000 people in total by the end of March 2021.

Earlier this year, CEO of Oxleas, Matthew Trainer, delivered a Landmark Lecture to students and staff at London South East Colleges – discussing the benefits of an NHS career as well as sharing his own personal journey. Matthew says:

College partners with NHS Trust to support its ‘missioncritical’ vaccine roll out London South East Colleges has been selected as a partner by Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust to support the imminent roll out of the Covid-19 vaccine.

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he NHS is looking to recruit both clinical/ healthcare staff and support staff from local communities across Bromley, Bexley, Lewisham and Greenwich - aiming to secure a workforce that can deliver the biggest immunisation programme of our time, both now and over the coming months.

The College will assist by providing essential training to candidates, preparing them to enter the NHS recruitment process as well as supporting experienced staff already working in the NHS.

January 2021

A huge number of roles need to be filled –from clinical staff to deliver the vaccine, through to administration support and customer service roles.

For people with no previous healthcare experience, an entry to employment package – the “Get Ready” programme - has been developed by Oxleas and the College. This will provide participants with the skills, knowledge and behaviours to support them to access the job opportunities generated by the vaccination programme; laying the foundation for an exciting career within the NHS.

A dedicated NHS training page has been set up on London South East Colleges’ website (www.lsec.ac.uk/nhscareers) and a targeted marketing and recruitment campaign will be launched to highlight the many opportunities on offer.

CEO of London South East Colleges, Dr Sam Parrett OBE, says: “Following the approval of two Covid-19 vaccines by the MHRA, London South East Colleges is absolutely delighted to support the NHS with its critical mission. 2020 has been an incredibly tough year for everyone, but an effective roll out this new vaccine will hopefully turn things around quickly.

“This will be the largest immunisation programme of our time and to deliver it effectively, we need the right people in the right place as soon as possible. Our partnership with London South East Colleges will help the NHS to work with individuals from all backgrounds across our local communities, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to make a difference as we play our part in the international fight against Covid-19.

“I would encourage anyone who is interested in a career within the healthcare sector to get in touch. Find out what opportunities are available, join our vital effort to help protect the lives of people living in Bromley, Bexley, Lewisham and Greenwich.”

In November, London South East Colleges took part in a virtual careers event led by NHS London and the National Careers Service London.

It featured information on application processes, the many roles available within the NHS and advice direct from healthcare professionals.

Representing the education sector, London South East Colleges highlighted the different types of training available to access NHS and healthcare careers – and is now supporting the Trust in its new mission.

For more information visit: www.LSEC.ac.uk

21

Recruiting to Recover As we move into 2021 the focus for College and employers is to address the needs of the community in developing programmes leading to sustainable employment. In the current Covid environment this is a vital role in supporting those affected by the pandemic and its economic repercussions.

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here are now multiple pathways being initiated by the Government in 2021 all targeting different areas.

These include names you may be familiar with including Kickstart, JETs, SWAPs, ‘new’ traineeships, Youth Hubs, T Levels, Restart and Apprenticeships. With so many new programmes how does an employer know which is the right one and how to access these recruitment and training programmes.

This is where education providers like Lewisham College comes in. As one of the largest and most experienced employability and Apprenticeship training providers in

London, Lewisham College is at the forefront of the development of these new programmes and is working closely with local Authorities and the DWP within Lewisham and neighbouring boroughs as well as local organisations to integrate advice and guidance for both to the employer and local residents who are looking for work experience and employment.

Lewisham College also provides employability programmes for between 2,000 and 2,500 learners per annum and expect this to increase significantly in the

coming year. It also offers Sector Work Academy Programmes in Accounting, Customer Service, Adult Care and Security with more planned in other sectors, including construction. These lead to guaranteed interviews and apprenticeships or part-time and full-time job roles.

To find out more visit Lewisham College’s website at www.lewisham.ac.uk to arrange a consultation to help you decide which programme fits the needs of your organisation best and how that can lead on to other programmes such as Apprenticeships.

Kickstart Scheme

Let us match you with the perfect Apprentice Make the most of new Government incentives.

The Government’s additional recovery incentives have now been extended until the end of March 2021. This will mean that you could receive up to £2000 per apprentice you take on. This applies to both new recruits and up-skilling existing staff.

In support of this the College is offering new apprenticeships between January and March 2021 in: » Construction & Engineering » Teaching Assistant

» Catering & Hospitality » Health & Social Care » Business Administration

The government has recently launched a new Kickstart Scheme to create 6-month job placements for young people who are currently on Universal Credit. Funding will cover: » 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week. » The associated employer National Insurance contributions. » Employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions.

Contact us today!

If your business is looking to hire an apprentice under this scheme then contact Lewisham College today! lewisham.ac.uk/apprenticeships | apprenticeships@lewisham.ac.uk | 020 3757 3050

January 2021

22

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24 Technology

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Big Interview 25

Going for growth Thackray Williams Solicitors is most definitely a firm on the up.

B

orn out of a merger in 2004, the company has been expanding steadily ever since, negotiating the tricky period following the 2008 financial crash and evolving from a private client law specialist to a multi-disciplinary provider of legal services to individuals and businesses.

Headquartered in Bromley, Kent, the firm now has around 130 staff and recently expanded its reach in the City with the opening of an office in London last year. According to Yildiz Betez, Thackray Williams’ head of commercial property, the move is designed to put the firm in pole position for new work from commercial surveyors, wealth management professionals and banks.

January 2021

26 Big Interview

Yildiz says: “Having a London office hammers home the message that we have a really strong commercial offering to accompany our private client services. Previously we were seen very much as a private client specialist.

“The SME market is currently our sweet spot but we want to build more connections with larger corporates as well. London gives us that opportunity. In London there’s a gap in the market for a full-service legal firm with a really good service ethos. I believe that we can fill that niche. We’re very much a people-oriented, clientcentric business that connects well with our staff and our clients.”

That ethos has been very much in evidence through the COVID-19 pandemic. Thackray Williams has stepped up its drive to support clients and help them through those difficult times, extending its opening hours, producing videos on changes in legislation, setting up a COVID helpline and generally keeping in contact with clients to ensure their interests are being looked after.

Staff, too, have been supported via regular Zoom calls and online socials, including a virtual ghost tour of London. They were also invited to participate in a staff survey which allowed them to voice any concerns and ensure their needs were being met.

January 2021

It’s a policy that has paid off, as Yildiz explains.

“Our staff and client retention rates are pretty good and we won some new clients because we were visible.

People who were unhappy with their lawyer heard what we were doing and switched to us instead.”

It appears as though Thackray Williams is well primed for future growth. The firm provides a full range of legal services from offices in Bromley, Sevenoaks, West Wickham and London.

Its client base is wide-ranging, from private individuals to property developers, manufacturers, banks, builders and retailers, housing associations, professional services firms and charities.

On the commercial side, services range from advice on urgent deals and real estate issues to employment law matters. The private client team works on wills, tax and associated administration as well as family law, residential property, employment issues and dispute resolution.

With its headquarters in Bromley, the firm strengthened its presence in Kent with the opening of the Sevenoaks office two years ago.

Heading up the Sevenoaks office is residential property expert Andrew Raby, who is keen to highlight the county’s rich potential.

He says: “Sevenoaks is a reasonable-sized town with a lot of businesses. There are more than five thousand limited companies in the area, many of which are growing and employ dozens of staff.

“The Sevenoaks office gives us greater reach into Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas.

We’re looking to build upon the great links that we’ve forged here already. Many of those contacts have been gained though the South East Property Expo that we set up three years ago. It’s a great networking event that brings together hundreds of buyers, sellers, investors, developers, landlords, suppliers and advisors each year.

“The future indeed looks rosy for Thackray Williams, despite the obvious challenges of Brexit and a tough economic climate that has changed working patterns and attitudes.

The key is to be adaptable and agile – two qualities that the firm has in abundance.”

Big Interview 27

“Thackray Williams has stepped up its drive to support clients and help them through those difficult times, extending its opening hours, producing videos on changes in legislation, setting up a COVID helpline and generally keeping in contact with clients to ensure their interests are being looked after.”

“Across our offices we’re covering a corridor between Sevenoaks and London that no other law firm has captured.

That puts us in a great position.”

The future indeed looks rosy for Thackray Williams, despite the obvious challenges of Brexit and a tough economic climate that

has changed working patterns and attitudes. The key is to be adaptable and agile – two qualities that the firm has in abundance.

“People are talking as though commercial property will disappear – that’s not the case,” says Yildiz. “Companies will still need premises so they can

build a good workplace culture and integrate new staff into their workforce. When it comes to retail, the government is looking to be more flexible so that retail premises can be adapted for different uses. Companies will still need bricks and mortar; they will just use these assets in different ways.”

THE INSIDE TRACK: Yildiz Betez Favourite food? Turkish cuisine Favourite tipple? Red wine Favourite holiday? Visiting the family in Cyprus and living alfresco by the sea with them Describe your family life?

Big and Mediterranean How do you spend your downtime?

Having fun with family and friends and getting away to the coast to the family bolthole in Whitstable at weekends What are your key strengths as a manager?

I try to listen first and then act

And your limitations? Sometimes I’m too busy to catch up with colleagues. In an unexpected way, working from home has brought us closer together as we are having more conscious, quality conversations now we’re apart. I hope it stays that way when we come out of this Best thing about doing business in the borough? Being part of a friendly, fun and professional business community throughout the years Famous person you’d most like to spend dinner with? Dalai Lama but we’d probably be sat in a meditative silence during the meal!

Most interesting fact about yourself?

I can’t reverse park to save my life!

January 2021

28 Past Chamber Events

Making the right connections

Each month the Chamber hosts a variety of events which offer members a superb opportunity to meet and chat to fellow business people. Here, we review a few of our past virtual events.

Virtual Business Breakfast with Len Duvall OBE AM

Assembly Member for Greenwich & Lewisham Thursday 29th October 08.30 - 09.30 Assembly Member for Lewisham & Greenwich, Len Duvall discussed the national response to Covid-19 and the necessity of central government to

devolve responsibility to local government and local authorities who need to work temporarily to co-ordinate an effective response to the current crisis.

The need to implement and support immediate financial support for London’s

Virtual Business Breakfast Q&As with Matthew Pennycook MP

for Greenwich & Woolwich Thursday 05th November 08.30 - 09.30 Matthew Pennycook MP answered questions from attendees on a range of subjects including Test & Trace, Discretionary Business Funding, Low Traffic Neighbourhood Plans and additional lockdown measures.

This was an excellent interactive event.

January 2021

transport network without attempting to leverage sweeping changes to long standing policies. In addition to the Government’s plans to change parameters of the existing charge to fund the support package offered, is in contrast to the knowledge that TFL are a contributor to

the national exchequer with financial assistance during the course of a normal year.

Virtual Business Breakfast with Crystal Associates Wednesday 18th November 08:30 - 09:30

Mark Jenkinson, Crystal Associates showed a presentation on how they help cities, communities and businesses onto the path to be smarter and more sustainable. Mark was joined by Martin O’Brien Climate Resilience Manager at Lewisham Council, and Trevor Dorling, Managing Director DG Cities.

Louise Wolsey of Strategic Partner, LSEC asked about the development of construction provision for the rapidly escalating

needs of a green economy being driven by net zero targets, as well as reskilling a depressed workforce in a post-Covid world. She talked about FE’s role in transitioning to an industry led education system feeding the roll out of future green policy to support net-zero targets.

Forthcoming Zoom Events 29

Zoom Events Property Group Webinar

Virtual Breakfast Meeting with Gareth Bacon MP for Orpington

Coffee with Janet Daby MP for Lewisham East

Virtual Breakfast Meeting with Raymond Sheehy What is Mental Health?

Virtual Breakfast Meeting with Gary Parker, CNT Associates Accessing and securing Grants, Funding and Support for Digital Projects/ Services for SMEs and Sole Traders

Date & Time

Additional Information

Tuesday 26th January 14.00-15.00

Here’s a chance to quiz the experts!

Yildiz, David and Andrew, Partners from Thackray Williams share their legal knowledge on leaseholder and investor issues – including rent arrears and the legal framework. As well as the impact of the pandemic on property for renters and buyers alike. Sponsored by Blue Light Group and delivered by Think Events London Cost: Free to attend

Thursday 11th February 08.30 - 09.30

Tuesday 23rd February 10.00-11.00

Join us for a virtual breakfast with Gareth, a long-time Bexley Councillor and London Assembly Member who was also elected as an MP in December 2019.

Gareth will give an insight into politics, followed by Q&As Please send your questions in advance to office@selondonchamber.org Cost: Member £20 | Non-Member £25 Strategic Partner Free

What could be better than a virtual coffee with Janet, a former Lewisham Councillor and an MP since 2018, Janet will talk about her local priorities, national politics, and will open up for Q&As if time allows!

Please send your questions in advance to office@selondonchamber.org Cost: Member £20 | Non-Member £25 Strategic Partner Free

Thursday 11th March 08.30 – 9.30

Interested in Mental Health?

Raymond Sheehy, the CEO of leading mental health organisation, Bridge Support will talk you through the three most important questions during these difficult times: What is mental health? What do I need to know to support myself or others more effectively? What are the tips that could help me as well as help other people?

During the meeting, you will get answers to these questions as well as being able to ask your own.

Cost: Member £20 | Non-Member £25 Strategic Partner Free

Thursday 25th March 08.30 – 9.30

Gary Parker from CNT Associates will take you through the process of finding, applying for and working with grants, funding and support for Digital Projects/Services for SMEs and Sole Traders.

If you have not yet made the leap to e-commerce, this meeting will equip you with the information needed to make your move.

Cost: Member £20 | Non-Member £25 Strategic Partner Free

Book your Zoom event at www.selondonchamber.org/events January 2021

Property Group 31

New Property Group sector event for Chamber Yildiz Betez

Partner, Thackray Williams LLP and Chamber Board Member

1 Why is the Chamber setting up sector events?

Not every business sector has been impacted in the same way by Covid. Covid exposed and accelerated the impact of technology to varying degrees within different business sectors.

There will be winners as well as losers, but all businesses will need to pivot and embrace digitalisation to survive. Change will become exponential rather than incremental going forward and we feel that it is important that the Chamber focuses on the needs of our different members in this fast-changing landscape.

2 Why are you starting with the property group?

The Property Sector is one such sector that has been adversely impacted by Covid and will continue to do so for years to come. I believe that Covid only highlighted the impact that technology is having in every area of our lives and in every sector of business. Property is no exception. Proptech is here to stay and we will need to adapt and change in the same way that the retail and hospitality sectors are having to do.

3 What are some of the trends you see happening in the property sector post Covid?

Offices There has been much talk that the days of offices are now doomed and perhaps especially in London. However, businesses will always need an office for a home to build their culture and brand and they will always need to be located within a business community to ensure that there is cross fertilisation such as in the well-established business landscape of the City. Yes, business will need to be done differently and landlords may need to be more flexible in terms of the leases they are prepared to grant but offices will remain relevant provided landlords are willing to adapt and change.

Residential The number of residential planning applications have dropped by 43% over the past two years, as developers pull back from new development amid market uncertainty of Covid and Brexit and planning challenges. This means the target of 300,000 homes per year remains ambitious.

As hybrid working and localism takes hold, we are likely to see an exodus of city dwellers relocating to coastal, suburban, and rural towns in search of more space and a better quality of life. This is just the beginning of hybrid working and every organisation and individual will determine their own vision of hybrid working.

4 Do you enjoy virtual meetings?

I think virtual meetings will now have a permanent place in our diaries as it is a very time and cost-efficient way of getting people together, but it will not replace all face-to-face meetings especially in the context of business development, training and supervision and general social gatherings which are needed to develop authentic relationships for the success of an organisation.

The High Street Increasing diversity in the use of the empty retail units on the high street will be key to its survival. Planning legislation has already been introduced to address the desecration of the retail sector on the high street by creating the new E Use Class.

Industrial and logistics premises Logistics is one of the winners.

Industrial and logistics premises are in demand and show no signs of slowing down, buoyed by online shopping.

‘I believe that Covid only highlighted the impact that technology is having in every area of our lives and in every sector of business. Property is no exception. Proptech is here to stay and we will need to adapt and change in the same way that the retail and hospitality sectors are having to do.’ January 2021

32 Export

Opportunity knocks for exporters in postBrexit world South east London exporters are adjusting to a new reality following an eleventhhour Brexit deal struck days before the transition period ended on December 31.

T

he decision ended months of wrangling over future business rules and fishing rights between the UK and the EU. Under the terms of the new agreement, import tariffs between the UK and EU will be removed and UK goods can be sold without quotas in the EU market. However, these concessions come at a cost. UK exporters will face numerous regulatory hurdles that in all likelihood will make it more expensive and burdensome to do business in Europe.

On fisheries, the EU has agreed to give up 25% of its existing quotas in UK waters over a transition period of five and a half years, after which there will be annual renegotiations.

January 2021

Export 33

“While firms will welcome the agreement of a new foundation for UK-EU trade, they were faced with the gargantuan task of adapting to new arrangements with scarcely a week before they took effect.”

Meanwhile, although the UK won’t have access to the EU’s internal energy market, the idea is to have new arrangements in place by April 2022 to ensure that trading via interconnectors – power cables that link the UK with parts of Europe – is smooth and efficient.

Adam Marshall, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “After four long years of uncertainty and upheaval, businesses will be able to muster little more than a muted and weary cheer.

“While firms will welcome the agreement of a new foundation for UK-EU trade, they were faced with the gargantuan task of adapting to new arrangements with scarcely a week before they took effect.

“Businesses will need to digest the contents of the deal and consider what its provisions mean for the movement of

goods, people and data across borders, as well as for their supply chains and partners.

“We repeat that it is the responsibility of government to give firms clear, precise and detailed guidance so that they can make the required changes quickly.

Far too many details and procedures have been left, literally, to the last minute.

“Let’s not forget that many businesses are already on their knees from the impact of the coronavirus crisis, and most will have fewer resources available to implement the necessary changes with furloughed staff.”

The BCC said governments on both sides of the UK-EU divide must recognise the impossible task they have set businesses and give them time and breathing space to adjust to new realities.

“It is normal for free trade agreements to come with phasing-in measures, and this one should be no different,” said Adam Marshall.

“It is now time to bring the political drama of the last four years to an end, and to replace it with pragmatism and determination to make the new UK-EU relationship work. The agreement can and must be a starting point for deeper cooperation as we restart, rebuild and renew our economies.

“With greater clarity on the terms of trade, businesses can plan, invest and look once again towards new opportunities.”

The UK government continues to update Brexit transition advice for businesses. For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/transition

“It is now time to bring the political drama of the last four years to an end, and to replace it with pragmatism and determination to make the new UK-EU relationship work. The agreement can and must be a starting point for deeper cooperation as we restart, rebuild and renew our economies.”

January 2021

34 Export

Customs declarations – important notice Now that the UK is no longer in the EU single market or customs union, goods moving between the UK and EU – both imports and exports – will be treated differently. Customs declarations will need to be completed, with immediate effect, for every UK export from the beginning of the year.

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he requirement for individual customs declarations for imports from the EU has been deferred for six months i.e. until 1 July 2021 though traders will need to keep specific records to then complete a summary declaration.

Duty and VAT as appropriate will also need to be accounted for.

Exporters and importers

LCCI has joined with ChamberCustoms to provide a Customs Declaration service to help exporters and importers to comply with this new requirement for trading

with the EU, and indeed with the rest of the world where such declarations will continue to be needed.

A unit of Customs Declaration specialists – Customs agents – headed

by Suvjeet Sibia is in place and ready to help the import and export community prepare for this significant change – the number of declarations needed in a typical year will rise from 50 million to over 250 million so many companies are bound to be affected.

Visit www.londonchamber.co.uk/export-documents/customs-declarations or contact ssibia@londonchamber.co.uk for further information.

January 2021

Data

When companies register for the service they will be asked for certain data e.g.

• EORI status and number (economic operator registration and identification) • Goods dealt in; nature and number of consignments; markets served • Whether a deferment account is currently held

• Ports used – though note that this service covers every UK port for both import and export.

Export 35

Export documents and EU exit – update for Certificate of Origin and ATA Carnet users Certificates of Origin

A UK CO (non-preferential) has been designed in accordance with the relevant international convention and has been approved by government lawyers. This will replace the current non-preferential CO and will be issued for shipments after 1 January 2021. Holders of stocks of the old form are being notified on procedures to exchange for a new one. From 1 January only the new form can be issued and used.

Non-preferential CO are generally called for as part of the payment mechanism e.g. via a documentary letter of credit or for trade defence reasons, or because the importer is anticipating re-exporting the goods.

Origin and the UK-EU trade deal

The deal (or UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement – TCA – to give it its full name) includes preferential tariff rates for certain goods provided origin rules are met. The rates are dependent on compliance with origin rules demonstrated by self-certification via a declaration on the invoice which must include a UK EORI number. The statement of origin should appear on an invoice or similar commercial document describing the original product in sufficient detail to enable its identification.

The text appears in Annex ORIG-4 of the

TCA – page 482 of the document and exporters are advised to consult. www.gov.uk/government/publications/ agreements-reached-between-theunited-kingdom-of-great-britain-andnorthern-ireland-and-the-europeanunion

If the goods are not originating and do not comply with the rules of origin in the TCA, no special document is required so in some cases the buyer/importer may call for a non-preferential certificate of origin which the LCCI can issue as above. www.londonchamber.co.uk/cofo

EUR documents

A revised version of Movement Certificate EUR (in effect a preferential CO) will be the appropriate document in most cases where the UK have rolled over previous EU free trade agreements.

Precisely what countries it can be used for is a changing picture so check this website: www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-tradeagreements-with-non-eu-countries

Arab states

Note that non-preferential CO for exports to Arab League countries will be unaffected and there is no need for the format of the document to change.

However, some Arab League states are

party to certain EU free trade agreements e.g. Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, and Tunisia, and a UK EUR document may be appropriate. www.londonchamber.co.uk/exportdocuments/eur1-movement-certificate

ATA Carnets

ATA Carnets – the passport for goods being temporarily moved cross border for the purpose of being shown at trade fairs or exhibitions, or for professional equipment and samples – are now able to be used for appropriate temporary shipments to the EU 27. The UK has signed the relevant international conventions both as the UK and en bloc through the EU. LCCI have made the necessary changes to the document for use in the EU. www.londonchamber.co.uk/exportdocuments/ata-carnet

EU Trade Hub at LCCI

Information and advice on staff employment, business travel, exporting, importing, international trade paperwork, costs, logistics, data protection, e-commerce, accounting and auditing, intellectual property and taxation.

Plus an ongoing series of webinars to help UK companies trade with the EU. www.londonchamber.co.uk/eu-tradehub/eu-trade-hub

January 2021

36 Construction

Local regeneration brings new year cheer A new year brings hope and optimism, even in difficult times.

R

ight now, the country is grappling with the devastating effects of COVID-19, which has led to yet another national lockdown and more pain for individuals and businesses in the coming weeks.

In the longer term, however, there are several regeneration schemes that look set to bring thousands of jobs, wealth and prosperity to south east London.

Also in the pipeline are projects that aim to encourage greener forms of transport and reduce the local carbon footprint.

January 2021

Bakerloo line extension (BLE) The BLE proposals are designed to improve transport connections in southeast London and generate growth in the number of homes and jobs.

The idea is to extend the line to Lewisham via the Old Kent Road and New Cross Gate. A second phase, which would see a further extension of the line beyond

Lewisham to Hayes and Beckenham Junction, has also been considered.

If they get the green light, the proposals could bring an estimated £8.2 billion of economic benefits to the area, including 50,000 new homes, 12,000 new construction jobs with 18,000 more in the national supply chain, and 9,500 permanent new jobs along the route corridor.

“The proposals could bring an estimated £8.2 billion of economic benefits to the area, including 50,000 new homes, 12,000 new construction jobs with 18,000 more in the national supply chain, and 9,500 permanent new jobs along the route corridor.”

Construction 37

“The construction of the new 3km route in Greenwich is designed to make cycling between the Old Royal Naval College and Angerstein Roundabout much safer. It includes a protected route through the Angerstein Roundabout.”

Two new cycle routes open in Greenwich and Chiswick Transport for London (TfL), the Royal Borough of Greenwich and the London Borough of Hounslow have opened two new temporary cycle lanes totalling almost 5.5km of space as part of the Mayor of London’s bold Streetspace programme.

The construction of the new 3km route in Greenwich is designed to make cycling between the Old Royal Naval College and Angerstein Roundabout much safer. It includes a protected route through the Angerstein Roundabout, where a cyclist was tragically killed in 2018. Other improvements include new pedestrian crossings which provide a more direct route through Angerstein Roundabout for people on foot.

Meanwhile, the new 2.4km track along Chiswick High Road is part of the Cycleway 9 (C9) route between Olympia and Brentford and is the first major section of the C9 route to open.

The new route links to other changes to create one of the longest cycleways

to have opened under the Streetspace programme so far. The new cycle track runs between Heathfield Terrace and Goldhawk Road, separating people cycling from traffic and reducing the risk of collisions with motor vehicles.

Royal Arsenal Riverside The historic site of the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich was once a walled off private world that saw the manufacture of guns and explosives, munitions testing, a military academy and the production of medals and other civilian goods. Situated near the banks of the River Thames in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the site is now being transformed into a thriving leisure, retail and cultural destination

with 5,000 new homes, restaurants, bars, retail outlets and leisure facilities, all complemented by parks and beautiful riverside walks.

Crossrail project Crossrail aims to bring the Elizabeth line into passenger service “as soon as practically possible” in the first half of 2022.

When the full route opens, the Crossrail Elizabeth line service, which will run every five minutes at peak time, will allow passengers to travel all the way to Paddington, Heathrow or Reading in the west and Abbey Wood in the east.

Cont.>>

“When the full route opens, the Crossrail Elizabeth line service, which will run every five minutes at peak time, will allow passengers to travel all the way to Paddington, Heathrow or Reading in the west and Abbey Wood in the east.”

January 2021

38 Construction

Bruce K9 offer a variety of security options to suit everyone’s needs, whether it be a security dog handler or static guard who provide a permanent security presence to deter would be intruders.

Our focus is on meeting the immediate challenges posed by COVID-19.

“We are planning to start intensive operational testing, known as trial running, at the earliest opportunity in 2021. From the start of trial running, it will then take a period of time to fully test the Elizabeth line before it can open for passenger service. This includes a final phase known as trial operations to test real-time service scenarios to ensure the readiness of the railway.

Some of the services we provide:

“Following the opening of the central section, full services across the Elizabeth line, from Reading and Heathrow in the west to Abbey Wood and Shenfield in the east, will be introduced. The introduction of full services will be aligned with the National Rail timetable change, which occurs twice a year in May and December.”

Security Dog Handlers In an update in December, Crossrail It will offer dramatically reduced ▲ Security Guards said: “Delivery of the Elizabeth line is journey times between Woolwich and now in its complex final stages and Canary Wharf (estimated 7 mins), ▲ Property & Alarming is being completed at a time of great Liverpool Street (estimatedSecuring 14 mins), uncertainty due to the risks and potential Bond Street (estimated 21 mins) and ▲ Concierge impacts of further COVID outbreaks.

Heathrow (estimated 56 mins). ▲ CCTV Monitoring ▲ Risk Assessments ▲ Access Control with significant amounts of money on Europe, Liverpool top the Premier involved, contracts are entered ▲ Key Holding League table and in construction into without full consideration of the same disputes continue, centred the implications. Why? Honestly, I around financial disagreements and ▲ Door Supervisor don’t know. What I do know is that arising from parties not adhering to to make any inroad on reducing their contracts. ▲ Mobile Patrols disputes we need to understand ▲

The Rules of the Game

Over the years various reports have highlighted concerns in We are fully insured, andthe naturally, we and Egan’s industry. Latham criticisms of its failings 30 years treat all our contracts with the utmost ago promoted legislation devised confidentiality and sensitivity. to assist in dispute resolution – the Housing Grants, Construction and Why not get an expert opinion?

We1996 (and 2011 Regeneration Act amendments). would be happy to provide a risk

assessment for you to consider free improved?

By Danny So, has the industry of charge Frost,and no obligation

In my opinion, not really. Individuals

still do not understand their Managing contractual obligations and therefore Tel: Director 01233 626669 cut corners when administering their contracts. To prevent this, we need

Mobile: 07595 981684 to start with the basics.

To begin, read the contract! Sound Email: info@brucek9ltd.co.uk simple? That’s because it is. The

When I started out in the construction industry over 30 years ago, New Romantics ruled the music charts, the UK government was taking on Europe and Liverpool were a force in football.

Whilst New Romantics have faded into obscurity, some habits die hard.

The government continues to No: take Certificate 2015/770

January 2021

process is no different to knowing the rules of the game when playing sports. It is imperative that those administering or complying with the contract know the rules and their responsibilities. Often, even

our contractual obligations.

‘Mirroring’ or ‘reflective behaviour’ is a catalyst for contractual issues, this is when one party in not administering the contract correctly and so the other adopts the same stance. It is again borne of not reading or understanding contractual obligations and reacting too late because, for example, ‘we have always had a good working relationship’.

Occasionally, contract administration is just not made a priority; this is a recipe for further problems which could be easily prevented.

Let’s return to the sports analogy.

When playing sports the rules are a requirement, you comply and carry on. I would argue this is necessary in construction. By knowing and complying with the rules (contract), we can eliminate the disputes that keep occurring. Most importantly, knowing the rules means a better chance of a fair game.

If we read the contract, understand our risks, opportunities and obligations, and utilise external consultants at the start of the process, we can decipher risks before commitments are made, give advice before signatures are applied and strive for less turbulence in our working lives.

Whilst Liverpool, again, become a force in football and the UK government continues to take on Europe, let’s try and reduce disputes to the low level of air play those New Romantics get these days!

Email: danny.frost@base-quantum.co.uk

Tel: 0207 043 0993 www.base-quantum.co.uk

40 U+I

Bruce K9 offer a variety of security options to suit everyone’s needs, whether it be a security dog handler or static guard who provide a permanent security presence to deter would be intruders.

Some of the services we provide: ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲

Security Dog Handlers Security Guards Property Securing & Alarming Concierge CCTV Monitoring Risk Assessments Access Control Key Holding Door Supervisor Mobile Patrols

We are fully insured, and naturally, we treat all our contracts with the utmost confidentiality and sensitivity.

Why not get an expert opinion? We would be happy to provide a risk assessment for you to consider free of charge and no obligation

Tel: 01233 626669 Mobile: 07595 981684 Email: info@brucek9ltd.co.uk

Certificate No: 2015/770

January 2021

U+I U+I 41

Building a sustainable future Regeneration specialist U+I outlines its vision for Morden Wharf: a green, thriving new neighbourhood on Greenwich Peninsula.

G

reenwich Peninsula has been transformed over recent decades, from a post-industrial landscape to a whole new London neighbourhood.

But this rapid change has not come without its challenges. The fast pace of development has in places put a strain on transport capacity, while also leaving the area short of high-quality green and open space.

It is vital that as the area continues to evolve we focus on creating sustainable communities that are fit for London’s future.

This has never been more important than now, as we live through the impact of the global pandemic and are still coming to terms with the changes that it will bring to how we live and work.

One thing, however, is clear: parks and high-quality public space have never been more important.

That’s why U+I’s proposals for the development of Morden Wharf, on a key site on the western edge of the peninsula less than a mile from the O2, are centred on the creation of a new public park along 275m of the Thames riverfront.

In an area where there is limited green space, the nearly four acres of riverfront park, known as Morden Park, will offer fantastic views of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site and Canary Wharf across the River Thames.

The park will lead directly off the Thames Path and will be open to workers, visitors and residents alike. The landscape design is inspired by the site’s history as a marshland and will add a significant new ecological resource to the area. The Thames Path will be significantly upgraded and increased in width to 6m (3m for pedestrians and 3m for cyclists).

Once open, Morden Wharf will transform this part of south east London. Overall, it will provide six acres of high-quality

public realm, including play and recreation space designed for all age groups, amounting roughly to three-and-a-half football pitches.

A new public square that will host seasonal events and markets will be laid out where the Thames Path meets Sea Witch Lane, the main boulevard that runs east to west through the scheme.

The commitment to create both the park and public space is central to U+I’s vision: to develop a sustainable neighbourhood designed for London’s future, focusing on liveability, connectivity, biodiversity, work and leisure.

Underground car parking facilities means the public space will cater almost exclusively to pedestrians and cyclists, while a new ‘smart’ mobility hub, including the provision of 2,700 cycle spaces, will help connect the development with the wider peninsula, with public transport and electric shuttles and other forms of smart urban mobility made available. The aim is to improve connectivity across

“Once open, Morden Wharf will transform this part of south east London. Overall, it will provide six acres of high-quality public realm, including play and recreation space designed for all age groups, amounting roughly to three-and-a-half football pitches.”

the peninsula with new forms of sustainable transport, helping address some of the transport challenges development has brought.

The plans also include a dozen residential buildings, providing 1,500 homes – more than a third of which will be affordable.

A number of the residential buildings will feature vertical green façades that will help to provide natural screening and improve air quality.

Together with architects OMA, U+I submitted plans for Morden Wharf in June 2020 – the masterplan was a culmination of eight years of hard work, as well as extensive consultation and collaboration.

The scheme, which is now awaiting Greenwich council’s approval, will help with job creation too, giving rise to 2,400 construction jobs and more than 1,000 permanent direct and indirect operational jobs.

This too is critical to the vision to create a sustainable community. Morden Wharf is not about creating homes alone, but bringing together home, work and leisure. With workspace for a variety of businesses, including small and flexible spacers for the arts and the creative industries. Echoing its rich history as a place of industry, a series of maker spaces and light industrial units will sit on the part of the site, with aim of creating a neighbourhood that reflects the needs of London both today and long into the future.

U+I is passionate about Morden Wharf and pending planning permission, the team is looking forward to bringing forward this exciting new Greenwich neighbourhood for the people of Greenwich and London to enjoy.

Stayed tuned for further updates on the progress of the scheme at: https://mordenwharf.com/ Twitter: @morden_wharf

January 2021

EasyBuild software will provide you with: EasyBui The ability to see in real-time the financial position of The yo Provide you with financial snapshots across your busin Prov Integrate site and the back office through our mobile Integ R Timesheet application Time Secure, anytime, anywhere working through EasyBuild Secu An integrated platform managing Financials, Procurem An in All within a user friendly solution, built for Construction.

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Built to thethe the operational, financial and commercial management of all types of construction projects. operational, financial and commercialmanagement management all types of of construction projects.

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It It providesreal-time real-timedata dataand andinformation information to enable key business decisions and mitigate risks. provides to enable key business decisions and mitigate risks. provides provides real-time real-time data data and and information information toto enable enable key key business business decisions decisions and and mitigate mitigate risks. risks.

EasyBuildsoftware softwarewill willprovide provideyou youwith: with: EasyBuild

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CONTRACTORS

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HOUSEBUILDERS HOUSEBUILDERS

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SERVICE SERVICE && MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE

SERVICE SERVICE& & MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE

Elstree Gate, 4 Elstree Way, Boreham Elstree Borehamwood.

1JD. ElstreeGate, Gate,4 4Elstree ElstreeWay, Way, Borehamwood.WD6 WD6 1JD. +44 333 123 3279 enquiries@easybuilduk.co January 2021 +44 333 123 3279 enquiries@easybuilduk.com www.easybuilduk.com +44 333 123 3279 - enquiries@easybuilduk.com - www.easybuilduk.com

ild software will provide you with: EasyBuild 43 e ability to see in real-time the financial position of your proje vide you with financial snapshots across your business thro egrate site and the back office through our mobile Requisit mesheet application ure, anytime, anywhere working through EasyBuild Cloud ntegrated platform managing Financials, Procurement, Com in a user friendly solution, built for Construction.

EasyBuild acquisition is just the solution for construction managers T he Access Group acquired EasyBuild, a Borehamwoodbased organisation offering ERP software designed to meet the specific needs of the construction sector. Building on the acquisition of ConQuest in 2018, the addition of EasyBuild provides Access with the most comprehensive set of software solutions in this industry.

O WE HELP

EasyBuild provides ERP software to meet the specific needs of this complex sector, including Main Contractors, Civils, Demolition and Concrete Frame, Interior Fit Out, Roofing and Cladding, Joinery, Rail, Highways and Utilities – providing the critical tools needed to manage financial accounting and projects in a timely and efficient manner.

EasyBuild’s CEO, Carol Massay, brings with her over 30 years’ experience working within the construction industry. Carol has helped drive the message to embrace technology to promote a more efficient way of working within the sector.

EasyBuild has grown significantly in the last five years since Carol joined as CEO, winning awards for their software every year over the last four years.

We are really excited to be welcoming Carol and the whole EasyBuild team into the Access Group.”

Carol Massay, CEO of EasyBuild commented: “Joining Access gives EasyBuild a new level of expertise in the provision of integrated software solutions, an acceleration of our product development and gives our customers the opportunity to explore a wider range of business solutions from one provider.

It has been my personal ambition to help transform the sector and deliver the message to embrace technology to promote a more efficient way of working.

My journey continues now as part of The Access Group, and I’m really excited to be joining Brendan and the team as part of the Access ERP business.”

“The first of our company-wide construction events currently in planning stage is ‘Access All Areas’. This will be held in mid-March and open to both Access

CONTRACTORS

Brendan Flattery, Managing Director of Access ERP commented: “The Access ERP business already has a strong footprint in the construction sector serving over 1,000 Access customers. Since the acquisition of ConQuest in 2018, we’ve been looking for other complementary solutions to expand our offering, primarily in the UK, but with an eye towards Europe. With their range of ERP solutions, specifically designed for the complex project management needs of this sector, EasyBuild was an obvious choice.

and EasyBuild’s existing and prospect customer base. We will have both prerecorded webinar company and product updates, along with a ‘Thought Leadership’ live panel Q&A covering industry related topics, from Brexit, Supply Chain, The Government Playbook, Infrastructure and many other specific questions.’ This will be hosted by the very prominent, Professor Ian Reeves CBE with a panel of industry professionals from Main Contractors, Architects, Construction Software, CBES and additional experts in their field”.

HOUSEBUILDERS

To register for more information on Access All Areas email

scsmarketing@theaccessgroup.com

About The Access Group The Access Group is a leading provider of business management software to mid-sized UK organisations. It helps more than 35,000 customers across commercial and not-for-profit sectors become more productive and efficient.

Its innovative Access Workspace cloud solutions transform the way business software is used, giving every employee the freedom to do more. Founded in 1991, The Access Group employs more than 3000 staff.

For more information about The Access Group, visit www.theaccessgroup.com

Elstree Gate, 4 Elstree Way, Borehamwood. +44 333 123 3279 - enquiries@easybuilduk.com - ww January 2021

44

HRVY and Janette Rumba - Week 8 Semi Final

Strictly project showcases Mo-Sys innovation Like most other businesses, Mo-Sys has seen many changes and challenges in the COVID-19 pandemic but that hasn’t derailed its upward momentum.

T

he Greenwich-based company, which designs camera technology products for film and broadcast, has grown its team of staff from 40 to 60 and completed a string of high-profile projects, notably providing the entire virtual production technology for the recent series of BBC TV show Strictly Come Dancing.

This technology included a virtual studio (VS) and augmented reality (AR), which is the rendering of digital images or data onto real-world objects. The effectiveness of AR was demonstrated beautifully by the racing cars in week one of the series, the elephant that appeared during Bill Bailey’s quickstep, and the snow globe that seemed to encase Harvey Cantwell when he danced the rumba with partner Janette Manrara. There was also the

January 2021

clever virtual studio 3D floor projection that accompanied one of Bill Bailey’s famous tangos, giving the appearance of the dancers strutting their stuff at height across a striking visual of a rock guitar.

Led by technical director James Uren, Mo-Sys provided the technological know-how for all of these innovations, with graphics and animation specialist Potion Pictures creating the visuals.

45 At the centre of this technology is StarTracker, an in-studio optical camera tracking device for VS and AR applications. It binds together the real elements of a virtual studio (the presenters, guests or Strictly dancers) with the part of the studio generated by the graphics engine.

All camera and lens movements are captured precisely in real time and applied to the virtual scene. This is done via a small LED sensor, which is mounted on the studio camera and shines light on retroreflective stickers or “stars” placed on the studio ceiling or lighting grid. Effectively, this allows the StarTracker to monitor the position of the studio camera in relation to the virtual scene in real time.

Mo-Sys has extended this concept to create the world’s first pre-configured complete virtual studio system, complete with tracked cameras, which enables production experts to turn a small physical studio into a much larger virtual studio.

This was expertly demonstrated in the Strictly episode that saw the studio transformed into a virtual imitation of Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

Aside from working on one of the most popular British TV shows, Mo-Sys serves customers in more than 50 countries and has also been commissioned to work on projects for Disney, Sony, Sky and Netflix.

Its lofty status in the industry means that it has every chance of achieving its goal of becoming one of the fastest-growing virtual production technology firms.

Michael Geissler, CEO of Mo-Sys, says: “In the COVID pandemic we’ve grown our business by 50%. We’re a team of innovators who see opportunities before other people and continually push boundaries to create something new. That’s why high-profile clients want to work with us.

“The use of VS, AR and other virtual production (VP) technologies in film production has increased during the pandemic and is likely to remain prevalent in the post- COVID era. These innovations have enabled film production to continue at a time when many other types of businesses have had to stop trading.”

Whilst the trading outlook for Mo-Sys is positive, there are challenges on the

Bill and Oti Tango - Week 8 Semi Final

horizon – notably, a shortage of talented individuals who are skilled in the art of virtual production. With typical foresight, Mo-Sys has already anticipated this and is seeking to work with local universities to deliver a bespoke course that will equip young people with the skills to succeed in the industry.

Mike Grieve, commercial director at Mo-Sys, says: “Currently the industry doesn’t have enough people who understand the concept of virtual production and its potential. There’s a shortfall of skills in this area and that’s why we’re looking to tackle this in partnership with local education providers. In addressing the skills shortage, not only will Mo-Sys benefit, but so will other employers in the sector because there’ll be a steady pipeline of talent for them to tap into.”

Mo-Sys has already forged a strong bond with the University of Greenwich, helping three of its media and film students compete their course when they couldn’t get on set to finish their filming projects.

With social distancing rules in place, they were unable to get everyone together on set but Mo-Sys’ technology meant that most of the people could join the studio remotely.

As a result of this assistance, all three students have now gone on to complete their studies and get jobs in the industry.

Mo-Sys has similar plans in preparation with Ravensbourne University too.

Maisie and Gorka American Smooth - Week 3

Highly skilled professionals will be needed

by Mo-Sys as it pursues its ambitious expansion plans, which include growing staff numbers to 100 within two years.

Nick Barthee, operations director at Mo-Sys, says “As the person in the company charged with managing the resources required to fuel Mo-Sys’ rapid growth, attracting new talent into the borough as well as tapping into and supporting local education partners creating local talent, are both priorities.

Michael Geissler says: “We’re looking to the future with confidence. Post-COVID we will see an explosion in filmmaking, as production companies try to make up for lost time during the pandemic.

Virtual production technologies will play an increasingly major role in the production process, adding a new dimension to content as we saw in Strictly Come Dancing. With these technologies becoming more affordable and available, production companies will continue to use them even after COVID-19 has ended.”

“The use of virtual studio, AR and other virtual production technologies in film and television production has increased during the pandemic and is likely to remain prevalent in the post-COVID era. These innovations have enabled film, television, and corporate virtual production to continue at a time when many other types of businesses have had to stop trading.”

All images sourced from Strictly Come Dancing YouTube videos posted by the BBC.

January 2021

46 Finance

Further extension to furlough and loan schemes

The government has announced an extension of financial support measures designed to help businesses and workers through the COVID-19 crisis.

T

he Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – also known as the furlough scheme – will now be in operation until the end of April.

It provides a grant of up to 80% of the wages of furloughed workers, up to a maximum wage of £2,500 per month.

Meanwhile, the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme and Bounce Back Loan Scheme have all been extended until the end of April. These schemes have provided a lifeline for thousands of businesses, helping them to manage their cashflow as they attempt to battle through these difficult trading conditions.

The changes come ahead of the Budget, which Chancellor Rishi Sunak has confirmed will take place on March 3, 2021. This will deliver the next phase of the plan to tackle the coronavirus and protect jobs and livelihoods.

January 2021

Suren Thiru, head of economic policy at British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “Cashflow remains an urgent concern for many businesses, so the extension to the government-backed loan schemes is a common-sense step.

“However, it is concerning that many firms who bank with non-accredited lenders remain effectively locked out of these vital financial lifelines. Government, regulators and banks must work together to ensure that all eligible firms can access this support to help them weather this challenging period.

“Government must also be ready to further expand the existing grant schemes to ensure that as many businesses as possible get access to the support they need.”

Commenting on the extension of the furlough scheme until the end of April, BCC director of policy, James Martin, said: “This is a welcome move and will provide much-needed certainly and support that many need to protect jobs and livelihoods.

“Over the coming months, the government should continue to listen to business and evolve its support measures with the on-the-ground impact of the pandemic. Further cashflow support will be needed for companies that are unable to operate for an extended period, or those that face reduced capacity or demand due to ongoing restrictions.”

“Government must also be ready to further expand the existing grant schemes to ensure that as many businesses as possible get access to the support they need.”

Health and Wellbeing 47

Presenteeism prevails in COVID pandemic The coronavirus crisis has led to a significant rise in workplace presenteeism and a decrease in staff wellbeing.

T

hose were the key headlines from a new report from insurance giant Aviva, which polled 2,000 workers before and during the pandemic.

More than four in ten (43%) of employees described their wellbeing as less than good (compared with 38% before the pandemic) and 84% said they would carry on working even if they felt unwell (well up on the 67% recorded in February). In contrast, just 26% felt their employer was genuinely concerned about their wellbeing.

The report said: “While the heightened uncertainty and a tougher economic climate continues to impact employees, their mental health is suffering. They are feeling more disillusioned with life and are lacking an immediate sense of direction with their jobs as they battle with unease and uncertainty in this age of ambiguity.

“The number of people who strongly agreed the things that they do in their life are worthwhile has now dropped from 47% in February to 35%. Digging deeper, the drop in satisfaction levels is most prevalent among 25-34-year-olds.

This trend is visible within our professional lives too as we experience physical and emotional isolation. Only around one quarter (27%) agreed that they “really enjoy” their work, versus 34% in February.

Crucially, declining satisfaction is impacting our mental health too.

“Good mental health at work and good employee engagement go together.

There is strong evidence that workplaces with positive mental wellbeing are more productive. Employers could consider uncovering and addressing individual concerns and provide individually tailored support.”

More than half of all respondents (52%) felt the boundaries between their work and home life were becoming increasingly blurred – up from 40%

before the pandemic. The new normal is placing strain on the relationships between employers and their employees, with employees becoming not just physically remote but increasingly emotionally remote.

Young workers aged 18-25 were most likely to feel some degree of anxiety (53% reported feeling some degree of anxiety compared with a national average of 34%) and are the most likely to rank their mental health as bad (17% versus an average of 11% across all age groups).

The report said: “Heightened anxiety has led to employees working longer hours and taking fewer sick days, all the while becoming less fulfilled by work and life. Presenteeism, albeit in this new remote form, has become more noticeable. Furthermore, the boundaries between work and retirement are blurring and employees are becoming increasingly concerned about retirement: how much they will need to save, when they will be able to retire and what retirement will look like.”

“Only around one quarter (27%) agreed that they “really enjoy” their work, versus 34% in February. Crucially, declining satisfaction is impacting our mental health too.”

January 2021

48 StartUp Croydon

STARTUP

CROYDON

a Croydon Business Venture Since the start of the Covid19 pandemic, StartUp Croydon has endeavoured to adapt to new ways of working in order to provide expert help, advice and business services in a more flexible way and therefore continue to help new entrepreneurs and start-ups, SME’s, and the local community.

W

eatherill House has remained open for business since the first lock-down to assist its key businesses, many of which are in the care sector, and we have introduced strict Covid19 health and safety measures for the safety of our customers, visitors, and staff.

The normal working week has changed, and we are now offering several options for office rental including short-term lets and pay-asyou-go co-working space. In addition, enquiries about our business address service have significantly increased as more people are choosing to work from home.

January 2021

Most importantly, following the success of a modified version of our Building Business Horizons programme via Zoom, we have decided to continue in this format for the next cohort and extend the new model to some of our other training courses.

The Building Business Horizons programme builds upon our flagship three-day new business course and since commencing in 2019 has assisted 28 entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs.

To date, 16 have been awarded seed funding to help them start their venture including social enterprises helping

women recover from domestic abuse,

services to older people to help reduce social isolation, a health and wellbeing

and diversity and inclusion consultancy, life coaching services, a footwear company providing larger sized

women’s shoes and a social enterprise employability programme for people with disabilities in Croydon.

And as the “cherry on the cake” we have gone on to win our 4th National Award - as Enterprise Support Organisation of the Year 2020 (in the under £750k Category)

StartUp Croydon 49

What’s next for StartUp Croydon in 2021?

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Saffron Saunders as CEO from 1st February. Saffron’s previous experience includes roles within Croydon Chamber of Commerce and Sussex Innovation and she is no stranger to the world of aspiring entrepreneurs and incubating businesses.

The appointment follows on from John Barrett’s decision to step down

and enjoy retirement after 13 years’ service, most recently as Operations Director and Company Secretary.

John has been responsible for StartUp Croydon’s continuing success over the years and he has had a significant impact on the lives of many residents who have turned to StartUp Croydon for advice as they start on their business journey.

StartUp Croydon has been a trusted member of the Croydon business community since 1983, so please speak to us about your requirements and how we can help you to make a success of your business.

www.startupcroydon.co.uk Tel: 0203747474

January 2021

and finally...

50 New Members

Warren King Photographer Warren King Photography

Welcome to our new members Artis Bar Ltd

Rivington Solicitors

Email: mark@artisblackheath.co.uk

Email: admin@rivingtonsolicitors.co.uk

Contact: Mark Chhatlani

Contact: Sushil Gaikwad

Drain Doctor Bromley Tel: 020 8124 4253

Schroders Personal Wealth (SPW)

Email: femi.adesanya@draindoctor.co.uk

Tel: 07990 773145

Email: nick.martin@spw.com

Contact: Femi Adesanya

Contact: Nick Martin

Tel: 020 8852 0700

Tel: 020 3302 3810

I

studied photography at Berkshire College of Art & Design and have operated as a commercial photographer for the last 22 years.

I originally worked in press and PR for various clients around the Greenwich area. My first break came with the Meridan magazine and stints with South London Press. I have also been the SE London Chamber of Commerce photographer for the last 20 years.

More recently I have been operating from Thames-side Studios in Woolwich, where I shoot headshots, portraits, products and artists’ work.

I enjoy the variety that my job gives me and the opportunity to help businesses with their corporate image.

What was your first job, and what was the pay packet?

As a member of our Chamber, you are joining a unique organisation witha strong campaigning voice for business to local and national government.

Child: Paper round - About £3 a week Adult: Gym supervisor - £40 a week

You can access a range of services, networking events and support to help your business do better. Importantly, you can also access other members to find new suppliers, promote your business services, or join forces on new opportunities.

Buy a stamp and post a letter to David Attenborough and the BBC Natural History Unit, to tell them how much joy and wonder they have given me with their documentaries.

Find out how to join and learn how others are benefiting from their membership.

For more information telephone: 020 8317 3365 email: office@selondonchamber.org

“As a member you’re well connected with access to our range of benefits and services, including our directory of local member businesses.”

January 2021

What would you do with your last pound?

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

People in business who don’t appreciate what a difference professional images can make to their brand and marketing.

If you were Prime Minister, what would be your first decision?

Start the process to rejoin the European Union.

If you could do another job what would it be?

Something to do with nutrition and physical exercise.

What book are you currently reading?

About to start ‘Physical Intelligence’ Claire Dale and Patricia Peyton (how to harness your body’s untapped intelligence to achieve more, stress less and live more happily).

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