Southwark
BUSINESS TODAY
Issue 20: September 2018
Property Focus
Ambitious proposals for thriving local community
• Hospitality Page 8
• Women in Business Page 28-29
Page 19
• Voice from Westminster Page 32
Festive dining at the award winning Gastropub Menu A
Christmas Menu
£27 for 2 courses £32 for 3 courses To start • Duck, pork & cognac pate, apple & redcurrant chutney, toast • Butternut squash soup, spiced pumpkin seeds, herb oil • Salt & pepper squid, salad leaves, spiced mayo Mains • Turkey ballotine, pig in blanket, homemade cranberry sauce, jus & watercress • Roast seabass, olive oil mash, sun blushed tomato & caper salsa • Mixed vegetable & tomato cannelloni, glazed mozzarella, crisp shallot Minimum 2 guests • Fish pie • Beef & ale pie
All main courses are served with Brussels sprouts, carrots & roast potatoes
To finish • Christmas pudding, brandy custard • Winter berry meringue, white chocolate shavings • 70% cocoa chocolate brownie salted caramel sauce & vanilla chantilly • Lord of the hundreds, brie de meaux & stilton, quince, grapes with biscuits or baguette £2.50 supplement per person to replace a dessert with cheese • Mince pies with english breakfast tea/cafetiere coffee • Lord of the hundreds, brie de meaux & stilton, quince, grapes with biscuits £4.50 per person for an additional cheese course
Menu B
£42 for 2 courses £48 for 3 courses
Chamber offer
10% discount
on all bookings made by 31st October
Must mention CHAMBER OFFER at time of booking Not in conjunction with any other offers
020 7252 7798
A glass of Prosecco on arrival Canape of smoked salmon & shrimp roulade on blini To start • Chicken & wild mushroom terrine, truffle crème & brioche • Bresaola, green leaves & parmesan • Tempura crab claw, aioli, baby gem & lemon Mains • Turkey ballotine, pig in blanket, homemade cranberry sauce, red wine jus & watercress • Roast & chargrilled dry aged sirloin of beef, bourguignon sauce • Seared cod loin, seafood & sweetcorn chowder, herb oil
• Truffle & burrata tortellini, watercress, chestnuts & pickled beetroot To finish • Christmas pudding, brandy custard • Vanilla & raspberry frangipane, orange & cointreau mascarpone • Meringue, white chocolate chantilly, honeycomb & griottine cherry • Mince pies & truffles with english breakfast tea/cafetiere coffee • Lord of the hundreds, brie de meaux & stilton, quince, grapes with biscuits £4.50 per person for a cheese course
www.thecrookedwell.com
General enquiries only: info@thecrookedwell.com
Group bookings/private hires: Email jen@thecrookedwell.com The Crooked Well, 16 Grove Lane, Camberwell, SE5
Welcome
Welcome to
Contents
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY The Southwark Chamber of Commerce magazine for all Businesses in Southwark Rates may be low, but many businesses will tell you that money to borrow is scarce and cheap money very scarce. The commercial rating system is a clog and fetter on businesses in Southwark; it is effectively broken. A property tax which takes no account of turnover or local conditions and which is based on a requirement to raise an arbitrary sum nationally is causing immense damage here. Cutting rates in other parts of the country and loading those costs on London businesses is not a strategy for success and needs to be addressed.
Welcome to the latest edition of Southwark Business Today, this is an important part of our offer to members, but you can get so much more if you join the Chamber; please see our application form at the back of the magazine.
The long hot summer is over and as I again bend my mind to business in earnest it is difficult to focus on one thing as there are so many competing issues requiring attention. Below I set out three areas which I believe need action. At a recent meeting I attended at The Bank of England the feeling was that interest rates will rise slowly over the next few years with the aim to move away from artificially low rates.
Disclaimer
4 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16-27 28-29 31 32 33 34 Enquiries
Brexit looms and for business is not now about the deal so much as a deal. While government settle what, business need to know how and when; any changes will require time and resources to understand and implement and the politicians need to provide business the tools and crucially, the time, to prepare for what is now a very near event.
Today Southwark is home to all manner of professional, leisure and cultural businesses; many of these are new and innovative taking advantage of the fantastic can-do culture we have here. We are told, and I believe, that the future belongs to those who innovate, identify opportunities and exploit change. Those businesses require money to expand and innovate, affordable premises to work from and a stable business and regulatory environment.
Southwark Business Today is mailed without charge to all Chamber members and distributed to businesses in the Borough. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at Southwark Chamber of Commerce.
Peter Mantell
Chairman Southwark Chamber of Commerce
Views expressed in publication are not necessarily those of Southwark Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of the Editor. Š 2018. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published
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Upfront News Award Winner Hospitality River Cruise Skills Education Legal Advice Remembering when... Economy Sector Focus - Property Women in Business Health & Wellbeing Voice from Westminster Last Word Chamber Membership
Southwark Chamber of Commerce Southbank Technopark 90 London Road, London SE1 6LN Tel: 07477 581977 Email: admin@southwarkcommerce.com Web: www.SouthwarkCommerce.com
Editor
John Dean Email: deangriss@btinternet.com
Contributing Editor Susan Isaacs
Publisher
Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com
Published
September 2018 Š Benham Publishing
Advertising and Features
Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com
Studio
Mark Etherington Email: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No.1605
in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the 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.
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Up Front
Mayor calls for a united effort to help save London’s pubs
Record investment in improving the railway
The refurbishment of London Bridge Railway Station helped Network Rail make a record £4.1 billion of investment in the past year, according to its annual report.
Nearly a quarter of the UK’s total spend on infrastructure is being delivered through the railway upgrade plan, which has seen strong progress this year including the opening in January of the newly rebuilt London Bridge station. Jeremy Westlake, chief financial officer, said: “Britain’s railways are a vital economic driver for our country, helping to create employment and stimulate growth and housing by connecting people to jobs, friends and family. “But our railways are congested and the huge investment in our railway, encapsulated in the railway upgrade plan, is vital to provide more capacity for services that are coming on stream now, and will continue to do so over the coming months and years. “Track and train are working ever closer together to deliver thousands of new services. The unprecedented investment in our railway has led to significant challenges and industry has learned from the recent awful experiences that many passengers have had to endure with the new May timetable. “Our focus is to fix the issues as quickly as possible and transfer the lessons into future timetable and new service introductions.”
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has called for a united effort from government, local authorities and the pub industry to help protect the future of the Capital’s hostelries.
His call came as he released new figures showing that numbers continue their long-term decline across the city. The figures show that while pub numbers have increased in Hackney, City of London, Camden, Bexley, Greenwich, Hounslow and Lewisham, the numbers overall in London have fallen by 2.4 per cent, from 3,615 to 3,530. Sadiq Khan said that he was doing everything within his powers to support the trade, including establishing more stringent planning requirements to help save pubs, appointing a Night Czar to champion London as a 24-hour city, and establishing a world-first “Cultureat Risk” Office to help save pubs for communities. The Mayor wants the Government, local authorities and the industry to follow his example and do what they can to play their role. He said that this should start with the Government reviewing its valuation policy for pubs following large rises in business rates which are saddling pub owners with soaring bills. Between 2000 and 2018, demolition of pubs has been the most common reason
Mayor’s £500m energy fund to help cut carbon emissions
for pub closures in London. Sadiq is calling on local authoritiesto become stewards of their local pubs and to use the tighter planning powers in his draft London Plan to support their pubs. The problem of falling pub numbers is not a new one with numbers declining since the 1960s. It is thought to be down to a number of pressures, including changing drinking habits, development, rising rents and business rates. Small pubs are the most vulnerable, with a 50 per cent fall since 2001 (3,390 to 1,710 pubs) while the number of larger pubs has increased by 28 per cent over the same period (405 to 1,445 pubs). Although the number of pubs in London fell in 2016/17, the number of people employed by pubs has remained steady at 46,400 people. The Mayor said: “The traditional London pub has been at the heart of London’s communities for hundreds of years, but sadly they continue to face a long-term decline in numbers. As Mayor, I have made safeguarding and growing London’s night-time economy a priority, and am doing all I can to protect the Capital’s iconic pubs. “
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with an investment period of up to 20 years. Measures that could be funded include battery storage, electric vehicle rapid charging infrastructure, decentralised energy, small-scale renewables, energy efficiency, and low-carbon data centres for boroughs. Sadiq Khan said: “This is the largest fund of its kind in the UK that will help deliver the low-carbon, sustainable projects and infrastructure London needs to cut energy costs and reduce carbon emissions across our universities, hospitals, museums and small businesses. “It is a great example of how the public and private sectors can come together to create millions of pounds of investment for low-carbon projects and help fast track London towards our goal of becoming a zero-carbon city by 2050.”
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
The Mayor will also be commissioning new research to help identify the full picture behind the falling numbers – particularly in small pubs – and give pubs more of the tools they need to help secure a more sustainable future, wherever they are in the capital.
This could be by providing a more diverse offering, providing space for local community activities, or considering their offer of food, hot drinks and nonalcoholic alternatives. For example, he said, The Owl and Pussycat in Northfields is a microbrewery inside a former children’s bookshop, The East Dulwich Tavern has a range of community events such as a ‘Bring Your Own Baby’ comedy session and the Eagle in Farringdon is commonly regarded as the first ‘gastropub’.
Obituary David Henry Alden
Hospitals, museums, offices, libraries, social housing and universities are amongst public buildings and small businesses set to become more energy efficient thanks to a new £500 million-pound investment fund launched by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.
A recent study from the Green Finance Taskforce revealed that many publicsector organisations and small businesses want to install energy-efficiency measures but often can’t access the finance. To address this the Mayor, through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Amber Infrastructure Group, has worked with commercial lenders including Lloyds Bank, National Westminster Bank, Santander UK, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and Triodos Bank to deliver the UK’s largest ever dedicated investment fund for urban energy efficiency measures. The Mayor’s Energy Efficiency Fund (MEEF) provides flexible and competitive finance to deliver new low carbon technology or upgrade existing low carbon infrastructure,
Geoff Strawbridge, Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Regional Director for Greater London said: “CAMRA branches would like to see all London Boroughs adopting robust pub protection policies in their strategic plans and enforcing them in their planning decisions.”
David was born and grew up in Camberwell and he was passionate about the rich heritage of Southwark, the preservation of it for future generations. He set up the Southwark Heritage Association in 1986 and David was Chair for 20 years. This was at a time when historic buildings were being lost to redevelopment in Southwark. He and his wife Veronica set up the Blue Plaque Scheme in Southwark, in partnership with Southwark News to mark people places and events throughout Southwark’s long and rich history. Its Motto is: “Southwark History Alive Today”.
The idea for this scheme came when the Heritage Association looked into why Southwark, London’s oldest Borough, was under represented in the Blue Plaque scheme run by English Heritage. Southwark now has over 50 plaques, commemorating, Geoffrey Chaucer, Charlie Chaplin, Charles Dickens, Michael Caine and Sam Wanamaker to mention a few. The plaques are chosen on an annual basis by a public vote by tens of thousands of people over the last 30 years. Over the past 30 years Tourism in Southwark has greatly expanded and is now a large contributor to the local economy. Southwark Young Pilgrims, which was set up by Southwark Heritage Association, 21 years ago, gives training in local history to local school children. They then act as tour guides for tourists in the London Bridge area in the summer months. The patron of the scheme is Sir Michael Caine and the ethos of the scheme is: “That which we inherit from the past, we use and develop in the present and
leave enhanced for our children’s future”. Over the years David had built up a large picture collection chronicling the changes that have taken place in Southwark over his lifetime. David’s efforts helped to save iconic buildings such as the Concrete House in Dulwich and the St. Giles Church Porch in Camberwell. David was a member of the Executive Committee of Southwark Chamber of Commerce for many years, the Pool of London Partnership, the String of Pearls and the first Southwark Pageant in 1996, (depicting Southwark through the ages). In recognition of his tireless work in Southwark David was awarded the Liberty of Camberwell and was presented to her majesty the Queen, Prince Phillip and other members of the Royal family at a Buckingham Palace event. David Alden was a Peckham man through and through. He is survived by his wife Veronica, children and grandchildren. May he rest in peace.
News
Inaugural Southwark Business Excellence Awards 2018
Independent restaurant Spinach was crowned Southwark’s first Business of the Year at a glittering gala awards ceremony in June.
More than 450 guests celebrated the inaugural Southwark Business Excellence Awards in association with Lewisham Southwark College. Hosted by financial journalist Sally Bundock, the sold-out event celebrated the successes and achievements of Southwark’s vibrant business sector.
East Dulwich restaurant Spinach, which serves a seasonal, vegetableinspired menu, was chosen from 14 category winners to take the overall accolade, having also collected the Best Business for Hospitality and Food Excellence award. Owner Melissa Harwood said: “A lot of work has gone into Spinach and it is a challenge to do it all by yourself, so winning this award is amazing.” Peter Mantle, Chairman of Southwark Chamber of Commerce said the energy and commitment on show from all the finalists was testament to the driving ambition that would continue to take Southwark forward. Plans are already in the pipeline for the 2019 Awards – details will be announced shortly.
Backed by Headline Lewisham Southwark College and Awards Partners, Southwark Chamber of Commerce, Southwark Council and White Label Creative, the awards are sponsored by British Land, CIT Group, ENGIE, Grosvenor, UAL London College of Communications, Landsec, Lendlease, Greystar, South Bank Central, plus Great Portland Estates and Costain Group and Sellar. The programme is supported by Shangri-La Hotel, Jensen’s Gin and Media Partner, Southwark News. www.southwarkawards.co.uk
The 2018 Southwark Business Excellence Awards Winners: Business of the Year
Sponsored by Lewisham Southwark College Winner: Spinach
Best Business for Customer Service
Sponsored by Greystar Winner: Hop Burns & Black Highly Commended: Archimedes Inspiration - AI Espace Commended: Lila’s Jewels
Best Employer
Winner: VHR Highly Commended: Hyde Housing Commended: Shangri-La Hotel, at The Shard, London
Business Commitment to Education and Skills
Sponsored by ENGIE Winner: The Old Vic Highly Commended: Bermondsey Community Kitchen Commended: Shakespeare’s Globe Trust
Best Woman in Business
Sponsored by Landsec Winner: Amber Williamson, Digital Willow Highly Commended: Jennifer O’Donnell, Jane Jefferson Cleaning Commended: Estelle Theobalds, Canopy Beer Co
Award for Excellence in Leisure and Tourism
Best Charity or Social Enterprise
Best Business for Tech and Innovation
SME Excellence Award
Entrepreneur of the Year
Independent Retailer of the Year
Winner: The London Bridge Experience and Tombs Highly Commended: Simplicity and Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar & Brasserie Commended: South London Gallery Sponsored by CIT Winner: Virocom Ltd Highly Commended: Netwise Hosting Commended: Crofton Cloud Chamber
Winner: Danny Brooks, VHR Highly Commended: Richard Martin, WOKIT Commended: Jason Choy, Persus Limited t/a Welcome Gate
The Southwark Cultural Commitment Award
Sponsored by British Land plc Winner: Brunel Museum Highly Commended: The Old Vic Commended: Sands Films and Resonance FM
Commitment to the Community Award
Sponsored by UAL London College of Communication Winner: Deli Felice Highly Commended: Lightbox Commended: Southwark Construction Skills Centre
Winner: Active Communities Network Highly Commended: ree Shepherd Commended: CareTrade Answers for Autism Sponsored by Grosvenor Winner: Newington Communications Highly Commended: Holistic Commended: Stepladder Sponsored by Lendlease Winner: Hop Burns & Black Highly Commended: Holly&Lil The Collar Makers & Groomers Commended: G Baldwin & Co Ltd
Best Business for Hospitality and Food Excellence
Sponsored by South Bank Central Winner: Spinach Highly Commended: Suzanne James Catering & Events Commended: Canada Water Cafe
Best New Start Up
Winner: Paladar Highly Commended: TUPI Restaurants Ltd
UK’s fastest broadband now available in Southwark
Earlier this year Hyperoptic, the UK’s largest gigabit broadband provider, announced that it had entered into an agreement with Southwark Council to enable 100,000 homes and businesses in the borough to have access to its gigabit full fibre broadband.
The announcement outlined that Hyperoptic would service the whole housing portfolio of Southwark Council, which equates to over 53,000 residential homes and nearly 1,000 commercial properties. As a result of servicing these buildings, Hyperoptic’s network would also pass an additional 46,000 homes and businesses in the borough. Work has already commenced and Hyperoptic’s first installation is now live – residents at the Osprey Estate can now order broadband services over 22 times faster than the national average. It’s been an exciting few months for Hyperoptic. Just last month it announced that it had completed a debt raise of one quarter of a billion pounds from eight leading international banks to extend its full fibre optic network to 50 towns and cities across the country by 2019. This is the largest single investment in the UK for a full fibre optic network provider. Hyperoptic continues to get widespread recognition for its great work in bridging the digital divide and expanding local economies. Minister for Digital Margot James said: "We recently announced plans for a nationwide full fibre broadband network to build a Britain that's fit for the future. Hyperoptic’s commitment to deliver gigabit connectivity to more than 50 UK towns and cities shows that they match our ambitions." It also scooped the award for ‘Best Superfast Broadband’ at 2018 Internet Services Providers’ Association awards. This is the sixth year in a row that Hyperoptic has received this amazing industry accolade. However, Hyperoptic’s biggest advocates are always its customers they show genuine appreciation and satisfaction following connection. We look forward to the word spreading in Southwark as we build the UK’s first full fibre borough.
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
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Award Winner
Entrepreneur’s success is recognised Amber Williamson is a successful entrepreneur whose dynamic leadership of her fast-growing Southwark business is increasingly being recognised nationally and internationally.
The success of media and marketing consultancy Digital Willow, of which she is founder and CEO, saw her named as the first winner of the Best Woman in Business award at the Southwark Business Excellence Awards last year.
The inaugural awards, run by Southwark Chamber of Commerce in association with Lewisham Southwark College, attracted 171 submissions from 122 companies, with the ceremony held at the Hilton Hotel in Southwark. Amber has specialised in marketing for her entire career, with the past 11 years specifically focusing in digital and growth marketing.
She left a senior global partnership role, managing marketing budgets of more than $200 million across 72 countries, to set-up her dream business in Southwark.
During her career she has led digital marketing strategies for multi-national companies including Microsoft, Burberry, Honda, Cadbury, Mondelez and Exxon.
Today, Amber spends her time primarily helping medium-sized professional services and entertainment businesses to grow and flourish.
She said: “It was a massive decision to set up my own business, with a lot of sacrifices along the way. But I dreamed of creating a business that looked after their staff, that wasn’t interested in office politics, that did quality work and really cared about helping other businesses grow.” “The first few years were a rollercoaster. I wore so many different hats every day ‘CFO, Head of HR, Head of Legal’ and the list goes on. Being a top class networker and problem solver were so important to our success.
This year is our best year ever. We have grown by over 40% in billings this year, we have expanded our London Bridge office and now Winning the Southwark business award was the icing on the cake.” “Sometimes it can feel very lonely running a business, it can feel like no one, not even your closest family or friends understand the extra effort that goes in. But this award was an amazing moment in time to stop and enjoy my achievements, to enjoy the journey and to feel recognised. It was a brilliant moment I won’t ever forget.” Digital Willow helps businesses like The Law Society, RL360, Shakespeares Globe and MyTimeActive generate leads and grow sales through digital marketing. Asked about the secret of her success, Amber said: “My passion is to help businesses grow. I believe in what I am doing, and I think people can tell when you are not genuine and are just out to make money. My clients know that blood, sweat and tears have gone into supporting their business.
“Seller-centric business models don’t work anymore. Instead we aim to always be helping. Whether turning around a declining sales pipeline or launching a new product into a competitive market, once a contract is signed we become a dedicated partner and ‘fight’ for the best solution for our clients. “CEOs and marketers have an extremely difficult job trying to keep up with the fast-paced change of technology.
To solve this challenge, Digital Willow is formed by a team of agile specialists. We extend our client’s marketing teams. We remove the risk of paying for multiple in-house salaries and overheads. “You have to keep up with technological developments. Things are moving so quickly that the team has to undergo training every two weeks or we will fall behind.”
A key moment came when Digital Willow broke into the Middle Eastern market. Not only has this project been a gamechanger for Digital Willow in size and scope, it has also opened up new avenues within the region which they hope to capitalise on in the coming year. Amber said: “We are continuing to grow. We have expanded our presence in London Bridge and after winning some contracts in Dubai we will be opening an office out there early in the New Year. Exciting times are on the horizon for us”
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
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Hospitality
Who’s been Sleeping on My Site? The Quarter Bar and Londinium Restaurant at the London Bridge Hotel by Susan Isaacs Arts and Culture correspondent
They drilled and they drilled to reveal mosaics and pots and coins dating from ancient Rome. Who would have thought the London Bridge Hotel, twenty years old in August, sitting neatly by London Bridge Station and tube, was once a BT telephone Exchange, and centuries ago, a far flung outpost of the Holy Roman Empire.
We sat snugly ensconced in the Quarter Bar and Lounge in one of those cosy padded blue grey booths that looks out onto London Bridge Street. There were red roses in the windows and the colour picked out the red padded seats dotted round the room. All the tables face a well stocked bar, so you feel like celebrants at a religious ceremony watching a high priest, as the barman mixes, shakes, rattles, and rolls a whole sequence of exciting looking concoctions. We sipped the delicious Maquis Mocktail,
a gorgeous blend of strawberry, raspberry, blackberry and cranberry juice and tucked into goats cheese salad. The cheese board was an inviting display of green grapes, green apples, and a crumbly, sharp blue veined chunk of sharp yellow cheese.
For those of you with more animal appetites there is a substantial choice of steaks, hamburgers, triple cooked chips, and streaky bacon. And there is a tremendous selection of whiskies, vodka’s and gins, not to mention tequilas. It is no surprise to hear that a lot of the clientele hail from Scotland.
I chatted to the duty manager Alpay, who filled us in.
“The hotel was 20 years old in August and has over 138 bedrooms. It’s mainly corporate clients from Monday to Friday, and they generally come from Britain, from the north of England and Scotland.
But there are clients from Europe and the USA, India, and Africa, too.”
“And who decides on the menu?” “Oh that is the head chef’s job, Mark Kember, he really makes the decisions, although when there are new dishes on the menu the staff do all have a chance to try.” “What is the most popular part of the restaurant?
“Oh, it is definitely the Quarter Bar with business customers, but our Londinium restaurant is great for a special occasion.”
We could not resist tripping downstairs and taking a peek at the white table - clothed restaurant, sitting unobtrusively
atop a Roman excavation site. White marble busts of surprisingly young looking Roman senators sat in the entrance way, and maps of ancient London adorned the walls of the sumptuous restaurant. There was a hushed silence about the place, and even the loos had superior looking white and grey tiled floors. I was assured that the food was just as good in the Quarter Bar, but I must say I would love to try Londinium one day. I just fancy a chat with one of those busts of Roman senators, to find out what they think of the twenty first century people eating and sleeping on their site.
“The hotel was 20 years old in August and has over 138 bedrooms. It’s mainly corporate clients from Monday to Friday, and they generally come from Britain, from the north of England and Scotland. But there are clients from Europe and the USA, India, and Africa, too.”
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Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
River Cruise
(L to R) Corrine Dearsley, Peter Mantell, Tom Henry, Stephen Whitaker
(L to R) Stephen Whitaker, Tom Henry, Peter Mantell, Sarah Hughes, Liam Trueman
The annual event, supported by South London property specialist Kalmars, who as usual were the biggest supporters of the event, set sail from Festival Pier heading downstream as far as the Pool of London before a sedate cruise upstream as far as Putney Bridge.
Kalmars toasts success of Chamber’s riverboat cruise
The trip provided fabulous views of many Thames side landmarks in the evening sun.
More than 100 members and guests of the Southwark Chamber of Commerce enjoyed the chance to network with other businesses and professionals on an evening riverboat cruise along the Thames.
Richard Kalmar, managing director of Kalmars, said: “The Southwark Chamber of Commerce plays an important role by providing a focal point for local businesses of all sizes and we were honoured to have been the sponsor of this successful event. The annual boat trip is one of the highlights of the chamber’s calendar, allowing members and guests to reinforce existing relationships as well as building new ones. “Such opportunities are not only good for the businesses concerned but for the South London community as a whole.”
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
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Skills
Language Classes French, Spanish, Italian and German Classes
Transport ‘leading the way in engineer recruitment’ The transport industry is leading the way in recruiting engineers, according to a Government-backed report.
A series of language courses will be running from September 25th 2018 for ten weeks. The cost is £185 for new students and £155 for returning students. The Thursday classes will be held at More London near London Bridge and the Tuesday classes will be held near the Barbican Courses are open to beginners, intermediate and advanced speakers of French, Spanish and Italian as well as beginner and intermediate students of German. A discount of £30 (cost for ten weeks £155) is available to chamber members
Class Times and Locations French classes
www.languages2000.co.uk/french • Beginners plus French at More London Thursday 12.00pm (45 mins) start date September 27th • Intermediate French at More London Thursday 7.15pm (45 mins) start date September 27th • Advanced French at More London Thursday 1.30pm (45 mins) start date September 27th • Higher intermediate/advanced French Near the Barbican Tuesday 8.00 am (45 mins) start date September 25th)
Spanish classes.
www.languages2000.co.uk/spanish • Beginners Spanish at More London Thursday 8.00 pm (45 mins) start date September 27th • Intermediate Spanish at More London Thursday 6.30pm (45 mins) start date September 27th
Italian classes
www.languages2000.co.uk/italian • Intermediate Italian at More London Thursday 12.45pm (45 mins) start date September 27th • Intermediate/advanced Italian at More London Thursday 5.00pm (45 mins) start date Thursday September 27th • Beginners Italian near the Barbican Tuesday 8.45am (45 mins) start date September 25th
German classes.
www.languages2000.co.uk/german • Intermediate German at More London Thursday 5.45pm (45 mins) start date Thursday September 27th • Beginners German at More London Thursday 8.45pm (45 mins) start date Thursday September 27th For further information please contact Susan on susanelizabethisaacs@icloud.com or visit www.languages2000.co.uk To join the mailing list please link to http://eepurl.com/bev4c9
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Figures included in the ‘Transport infrastructure skills strategy: two years on’ report showed that 2,784 apprenticeships have been created in road and rail in the past year. Welcoming the report, Nusrat Ghani, Skills and Apprenticeships Minister, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to creating 30,000 apprenticeships in road and rail bodies and increasing diversity of the transport workforce, with a strong focus on encouraging more women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) people into the industry. The report shows more than 5,000 apprentices have begun training in road and rail sectors alone since 2016 and that an additional 8,000 opportunities will be created every year in the express delivery sector. Training places for maritime cadets will rise to 1,200 over the next seven years and 10,000 apprenticeships will be created as a result of an expanded Heathrow before 2030 Nusrat Ghani said: “This report shows that significant government investment in transport is playing a key role in creating life-changing opportunities through its high quality apprenticeships, helping us lead the way in
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
Nusrat Ghani, Skills and Apprenticeships Minister
unlocking new jobs and ensuring this country has the skilled workforce it needs for the future. “Although we are seeing evidence of better BAME representation in the sector, our ambitions are clear. From road to rail, maritime to aviation, we must all redouble our efforts to bring more women into technical and engineering roles, remove barriers, ensuring we bring talented people from all backgrounds together to tackle the skills gap. “We are committed to strengthening links between employers in our sector and young people, particularly in the creative, innovative world of engineering through our Year of Engineering campaign. I look forward to even more apprentices starting brilliant careers in years to come. Mike Brown MVO, Commissioner, Transport for London, said: “The power of collaboration on skills from transport employers who are committed to creating more high quality skills and training opportunities for people of all ages has already provided great results across the sector. “The increase in transport apprenticeships is vital to addressing current skills shortages, helping to fill gaps
in future skills, improving productivity and driving growth in Britain for the future.” TfL is playing is part to attract more women into the industry and recently helped celebrate International Women in Engineering Day by promoting the opportunities available. There is a lack of women in the engineering sector. According to Engineering UK in their State of Engineering report, only 12 per cent of those working in core and related engineering roles are women. Research also shows that at every age boys are far more likely than girls to consider a career in engineering. Mesghana Habteab, who featured in the TfL campaign to promote International Women in Engineering Day and who works as an engineer on the Central line, said: “Many people think that they can’t become an engineer because they don't have the right qualifications. However, there are many routes to becoming an engineer, such as applying for an apprenticeship. “I joined the industry, despite taking A Levels in the Arts and Humanities, by completing a foundation course. Sometimes there may appear to be barriers to your aspirations, but you can find ways to overcome them.” Helen Gregory, who also featured in the campaign and works as an Assistant Project Manager supporting the modernisation of the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines, said: “Engineering is such an exciting industry to work in. More women should be considering it as a potential path for them because as an engineer you can you can walk past a building or a bridge or a road and think 'I was part of the team that delivered this'. You get to make a difference to people's everyday lives.”
Education
Construction apprenticeships inject talent stream into local companies Lewisham Southwark College has a wealth of experience of successfully matching apprentices with construction employers – enabling businesses of all sizes to bridge their skills gaps with help from all ages who are enthusiastic and eager to learn. It supports construction companies all the way through the recruitment process and helps them to navigate the government’s Apprenticeship Levy system.
David White, Deputy Principal at LSCollege congratulating Victor Rady
Delivering apprenticeships in plumbing, carpentry, brickwork, property maintenance and site supervision, the College provides training from its dedicated construction campus in Deptford.
The College’s apprenticeship success rates have beaten the national average for the last three years, with apprentices going ‘over and above’ and impressing employers with their professionalism and commitment.
One such star performer is plumbing apprentice Victor Rady, who has just won the College’s overall ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award for 2018. During his Level 2 apprenticeship at R G Taylor Engineering, he rapidly completed the demanding 116-page
portfolio and 13-exam diploma required, while demonstrating an excellent attitude and great teamworking skills. Stephen Matheou, Commercial Director at R G Taylor says: “We’d like to thank all the staff at Lewisham Southwark College and our construction team for assisting Victor to accomplish this fantastic achievement.”
Another plumbing apprentice from the College, Jevan Green, who works for Ardmore Construction Ltd, describes what he sees as the best things about his apprenticeship. “I’ve most enjoyed the teamwork and camaraderie between co-workers,” he says. “I’ve learned a lot about the requirements of
Jevan Green, pictured with Jonathan Mitchell from the Institute of Apprenticeships
working on-site and developed confidence in plumbing-related tasks.”
Lewisham Southwark College is continually improving its apprenticeship provision through new initiatives. For example it has partnered with Lewisham Council and industry experts to form Lewisham Construction Hub (lewishamconstructionhub.co.uk) which supports local residents into employment, training and apprenticeships.
Whether you are a large National Levy-paying organisation or a small local company, the College can give you access to talented individuals who will bring a fresh perspective to your business.
GET AHEAD. GET AN APPRENTICE To be successful, you need a talented, loyal workforce. Apprentices offer enthusiasm, knowledge and a desire to do well - helping you tackle the challenges of the future. Let us match you with the perfect trainee, taking away the headache of selection. If you’re a levy-payer, we can help you maximise the benefits too. Contact us today:
LSCOLLEGE.AC.UK/APPRENTICESHIPS Apprenticeships@LSCollege.ac.uk 020 3757 3050
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
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Legal Advice
GDPR – After the Panic It was the phrase on every text message, email, television advert and almost every type of media out there, as well as everyone’s lips. GDPR or the General Data Protection Regulation was everywhere in early 2018 and before.
Businesses were furiously data cleansing and grappling to ensure that their systems and procedures were in place. Seminars were delivered and received, and individuals looked forward to hugely reduced inboxes as consent would be required to receive marketing material. ‘D day’ of 25 May 2018 came and went. So, what now? It is more than 3 months since GDPR came into force. Has the tyranny of the new legislation swept through the European Union? What has been the effect of this massive update to Data Protection law?
As predicted, not an incredible amount has happened. This could be due to exemplary diligence of data controllers and processors in preparing for GDPR, that it is too soon for any complaints to have arisen or that is still unclear what the effect will be. It is likely that the answer is a mixture of all three. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has detailed guidance on GDPR which
was feverishly updated from January 2017 to May 2018. Since May 2018, there has been some updated guidance on international transfers. This is most likely due to the fact that there have been “adequacy decisions” made for several countries in July 2018. This means that the countries in question have had their legal framework around data protection reviewed and the green light given for information to be transferred from the EU to those countries. Apart from that, there has been no further updated guidance.
On a domestic level, the UK’s third generation of data protection law received the Royal Assent and the main provisions of the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA 2018) commenced on 25 May 2018. GDPR is directly effective across all EU member states which means that organisations in the EU must comply.
It does give member states some limited opportunity to make provision for how GDPR applies in the UK in domestic law and DPA 2018 contains this as one element. In addition, DPA 2018 deals with legal
matters that don’t fall within UK law such as immigration and national security. The duties of the ICO are also contained within DPA 2018. Therefore, there has been a massive overhaul of data protection legislation and obligations in the UK in 2018. However, since 25 May 2018, there has been little testing of how processes such as the reporting of data breaches will be clarified as there has been little or no reporting of complaints or legal challenges.
The concert ticket vendor, Ticketmaster, did report a data
breach in June 2018 whereby a malware attack on a thirdparty vendor left 40,000 customers at risk of identity fraud. UK users who purchased or attempted to purchase tickets between February and 23 June 2018 may have been affected. This is the first major breach to have taken place under GDPR, but it remains to be seen if the increased fine (the larger of 20 million Euros of 4% annual global turnover) will be imposed by the ICO. The outcome is eagerly awaited as this will be the first ‘litmus test’ of GDPR enforcement in the UK.
If you wish to discuss GDPR please contact Elaine on eoc@anthonygold.co.uk
“It is more than 3 months since GDPR came into force. Has the tyranny of the new legislation swept through the European Union? What has been the effect of this massive update to Data Protection law?”
Anthony Gold Solicitors specialise in many different areas of law
Our solicitors are experts in their fields. We are negotiators and litigators,
committed to doing whatever is best for our clients.
T: 020 7940 4060
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Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
Offices in London Bridge, Elephant & Castle and Streatham.
E: mail@anthonygold.co.uk
W: www.anthonygold.co.uk
Remembering when ...
The panoramic view of London in 1616 shows the first St.Paul’s Cathredal in the City with, on the opposite side of the river the Bear Pit and the Rose Theatre.
Remembering when the City of London acquired land in Southwark The 1534 Act of Supremacy made King Henry VIII the head the Church and the 1539 Act of Dissolution disbanded the Monasteries and their lands were forfeited to the Crown. Some lands were bought by the King’s friends and courtiers at favourable rates. Most of the lands were sold at market prices and Jurisdiction in Southwark, which already was a medieval jigsaw, thus became more complicated over the next 150 years.
In general, though, Southwark was fairly well administered. The Priory of St. Mary Overie was forfeited to the crown under the 1539 Act and the parishes of St Margaret’s and St. Mary Magdelene, joined together to lease the Priory Church from the Crown and so saved it from being demolished for its stone. St. Margaret’s Church, no longer needed for religious purposes became a court-house with a prison, controlled by the Guidable Manor. The newly formed church group was renamed St. Saviours and in 1611 a group of merchants who worshiped there bought the lease from James I for £800. The large church served an area populated by merchants, minor courtiers, actors, foreign craftsmen and ladies from the Bankside brothels.
Other land in Southwark acquired by Henry VIII was the area known as the King’s Manor around Brandon Palace on the west side of Borough High Street, opposite St George the Martyr Church. The palace was owned by Sir Thomas Brandon, Marshall of the Kings Bench Debtors Prison, who had created a park around the palace by leasing land from Winchester Palace. The house and lands passed to his nephew
The map of the Parish of Christ Church in 1821, two centuries later, show how Southwark had expanded into a densely populated and industrial area.
Sir Charles Brandon who also became Marshall of the Kings Bench Prison. He was a friend and favourite of King Henry, who created him Duke of Suffolk. He married the King’s sister Mary in 1515, and the Palace was rebuilt and became a fine renaissance building.
In 1536 Henry took over the Palace having exchanged it with the Duke for a building in Whitehall. He extended it with lands he acquired in Southwark to provide hunting ground for visiting dignitaries. Henry rarely used it and turned it into a Royal Mint towards the end of his reign, that was closed in 1551 and the area became known as the Mint. When Queen Mary came to the throne she gave the Palace and lands to the Archbishop of York to compensate him for the lands he had lost to her father. It fell in to disrepair and the Archbishop sold it and the Palace was demolished in 1562.
The City of London had an aim of having jurisdiction over Southwark, bought the administration rights to a large area that included the Kings Manor, the area south of the Clink Liberty and the Great Liberty, (the area to the east of Borough High Street), for £980.
By Ken Hayes Honorary Secretary
This jurisdiction did not extend into the Clink Liberty and they already held lands and rights of administration for the area known as the Guildable Manor. The purchase was made for the City of London by the Bridge House Estates, whose trustee was the City of London, a charity that owned and maintained London Bridge, and today also Tower Bridge, Southwark Bridge, Blackfriars Bridge and the Millennium Foot Bridge. The Trust has grown in wealth over the centuries with bequests of lands and property. It is now the City Bridge Trust, which give grants amounting to £15 M annually for the benefit of projects and charities in greater London.
The development and ownership of the Liberty of the Clink was affected by the changing circumstances of the political and religious climate. Bishop Stephen Gardiner, Bishop of Winchester during the reign of Henry VIII. played a prominent part in the Reformation and so managed to keep possession of the Clink Liberty, but when Edward VI came to the throne he imprisoned him in the Tower of London for five years and confiscated his land and property, but when Mary succeeded her brother, the Bishop was freed from prison and his lands restored, but during his absence tenements had been built on the land and buildings divided.
Winchester Palace was turned into a prison in 1641. During the Commonwealth in 1649 the Estate and Manorial rights were sold by the Trustees of the Sale of Church Lands to Thomas Walker of Camberwell for £4380. When the monarchy was restored in 1660 the lands were returned to the Bishops of
Winchester but by then the Bishop had acquired a house in Chelsea and he did not return to the Winchester Estate. An Act of Parliament was passed that allowed the Bishop to let the land and the tenements that had been built. Bishop Lancelot Andrews was the last Bishop of Winchester to live in the Palace till he died in 1626.
Further west in Paris Garden before the Hospitallers had relinquished their land to Henry VIII, William Baseley bought a lease to the Manor House and grounds. He bought it in a state of good repair and kept the lease when the lands passed to the King. He turned it into a Gaming House with Dice and Card games and built Skittle Alleys in the Grounds. Theatres had been banned in the City of London in 1593 and the arrival of theatre managers, writers, and actors and the building of Theatres in Bankside next to existing Bear and Bull baiting pits led to what has been called the ‘Golden Age of Bankside’.
Playwright Thomas Dekker described the whole of Bankside as ‘a continuous alehouse’. The Gaming House in Paris Garden developed into an infamous brothel, complete with a Moat, a Portcullis and Drawbridge It came to be known as ‘Hollands Leaguer’ which derived, either from a Madame, Bess Holland, or the Dutch Prostitutes who worked there. Holland Street on the west side of the Tate Modern Museum is named in its memory. The Golden Age was however short lived as Oliver Cromwell closed the Playhouses in 1642.
When theatres were permitted to reopen after the Restoration Covent Garden had become more fashionable.
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Economy
Survey points to sluggish outlook for UK economy The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has published its Quarterly Economic Survey for Q2 2018, which suggests that UK economic conditions remain sluggish, despite a modest improvement in activity. Based on the responses of more than 6,000 businesses, the survey indicated that consumer-facing industries such as hospitality and retail continue to report tougher trading conditions. Cashflow and investment intentions are falling significantly for retailers in particular as consumer spending, a key driver of UK growth, continues to remain subdued. In the manufacturing sector, the balance of firms reporting improved domestic sales rose in the quarter, and improved orders increased to the highest level since Q1 2015. However, the size of the sector means that its contribution to UK growth remains limited, says the organisation. The survey of manufacturers showed that improved export sales and orders eased in the second quarter, suggesting that slowing global economic growth is forcing firms to look domestically for sales.
A number of the key forward looking indicators, if sustained, point to a subdued outlook. The number of businesses reporting that they are intending to invest fell in the quarter, and business confidence for both sectors also fell. The biggest concern for businesses, however, continues to be the difficulties they face when trying to access skills, with the percentage of firms reporting problems rising again. All this shows the economy is in a holding pattern, with annual economic growth this year set to be the lowest since the financial crisis. The BCC has called for a push to fix the fundamentals for business, fixing the crisis-hit training system, improving connectivity, delivering infrastructure improvements and incentivising investment. At the same time, says the BCC, the Government urgently needs to provide clarity on the questions
Key findings in the Q2 2018 survey: Manufacturing sector:
below their pre-EU referendum levels. While still high by historic standards, the easing in export sales in the manufacturing sector points to a tightening in trading conditions. With growth in key markets moderating and the impact of the post-EU referendum slump in sterling dissipating, the improvement in the UK’s trade position in Q1 may well be short lived. “The latest results also indicate that cost pressures eased markedly in the quarter, suggesting that inflation will drift downwards over the near term. Significantly, there remains very little evidence that above target inflation is translating to stronger pay settlements, with weak productivity and the high upfront cost of doing business continuing to limit the extent wages are able to rise. “Against this backdrop, the Bank of England’s recent rhetoric around raising interest rates continues to look ill-judged.”
• The balance of firms expecting turnover to increase nudged down slightly to +47 (from +48)
• The balance of firms increasing investment in training fell slightly to +16 from +18
• Confidence that turnover will improve over the next twelve months eased slightly from +48% to +47% Confidence that profitability will improve over the next twelve months held steady at +35%
• Cashflow is a concern, with just +9 reporting improved cashflow. Consumerfacing firms struggled more, with the number falling to just +4
• 65% of firms in the sector expect the cost of their raw materials to rise in the next three months
• The percentage of firms looking to recruit rose from 50% to 60%, but the number of those struggling to recruit also rose to 63% (from 60%)
• The balance of firms increasing investment in training fell, from +22 to +19, while the balance of those increasing investment in plant and machinery held steady at +20
Services sector:
• The balance of firms expecting turnover to increase in the next year nudged down slightly, from +42 to +40
• Cashflow continues to be a concern within manufacturing, with just +6% reporting improved cashflow. In construction, the balance falls to +2%
• The balance of firms reporting increased export sales also rose, from +13 to +15. The balance reporting improved export orders also rose slightly, to +12 from +10
• Confidence that turnover will improve over the next twelve months eased from +42 to +40 Confidence that profitability will improve over the next twelve months decreased from +33 to +29
• The balance of firms reporting increased domestic sales rose from +17 to +22, while the balance reporting improved domestic orders also rose, from +16 to +22 • The balance of firms reporting increased export sales fell from +30 to +24. The balance reporting improved export orders also fell, from +28 to +22
• The percentage of firms looking to recruit jumped from 67% to 77%, while the number of those struggling to recruit also rose, to 71%
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that businesses are asking on the UK’s status after leaving the European Union to give firms a clear path that would enable them to invest and grow. Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Amid growing international uncertainty, from escalating trade disputes to oil price rises, the UK economy continues to grow at a sluggish rate. Brexit is a key factor – but long-standing structural issues are also holding companies’ growth back. “The availability of skilled staff remains the biggest issue that firms face. Unless the Government gets a handle on the disarray in the training and apprenticeship system and sets out a clear immigration policy that enables firms to cover vacancies, the economic potential of many areas across the UK will continue to be held back.” He added: “Business needs clarity on Brexit, and a strong domestic agenda that creates a ‘Brexit hedge’ as we navigate turbulence over the next few years. Big, bold action is needed for the UK to buck the current slow-growth trend – with major new incentives for business investment, confidence-boosting infrastructure projects, and a concerted effort to slash the up-front cost of doing business, which is putting consumer-facing businesses especially under intense pressure.” Suren Thiru, Head of Economics, said: “Our latest survey indicates that UK economic conditions remain subdued. While the modest pick-up in domestic activity points to a slight rebound in growth from a weak first quarter, there remains little evidence in the current data to suggest a sustained upturn in the UK’s economic growth prospects. “Activity in the key services sector remains moderate, with most of the main indicators still
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
• The balance of firms reporting increased domestic sales rose from +20 to +23, while the balance reporting improved domestic orders fell slightly from +16 to +15
• Among B2C firms, the balance of firms expecting to turn a profit is +21, compared to +43 for B2B firms
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Sector Focus Property
Developments that are more than bricks and mortar Millions of pounds are being invested in Southwark as ambitious regeneration plans gather pace.
From largescale office developments to housing schemes, the area is witnessing massive spending on developments that are transforming Southwark.
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Although the projects are bringing money into the area and creating jobs, there is much more to them than simply bricks and mortar and the word that keeps cropping up time and time again in
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
conversation with the developers is community. Driving their projects is a desire to create pleasant and vibrant places to live and work through the strengthening of community life.
That goal has been achieved through everything from consulting local people throughout the development process to the provision of local amenities and the running of community events.
Sector Focus Property
£2.3bn regeneration scheme for Elephant & Castle Kristy Lansdown is the Project Director at Elephant Park, Lendlease’s £2.3bn regeneration scheme being delivered in Elephant & Castle. To those who know it, Elephant & Castle is one of London’s richest gems. But speak to someone who isn’t familiar with this spot south of the river, and they are always surprised it’s in Zone 1 London.
They are just as surprised to hear that the Elephant was once known as the ‘Piccadilly of the South’, thanks to the abundance of top quality entertainment that could be found here. From theatres and cinemas to grand department stores and music halls, Elephant & Castle at the turn of the 20th Century was a driving force behind the south London economy. At Lendlease we’re doing everything we can, alongside our regeneration partner Southwark Council, to put the Elephant firmly back on the map... and once again create a thriving local economy. Elephant Park is Lendlease’s flagship regeneration project in Europe. Between now and 2025, the project is set to deliver 3,000 new homes, £30m investment in strategic transport improvements, a brand-new park and tens of thousands of square feet in new business and retail floorspace that will breathe new life into the Elephant.
We are already making significant progress. Since starting construction five years ago we have over 2,300 homes either built or in construction, while the first half of the park opened to the public last summer. Building on a such a huge scale requires a significant workforce, and we now have over 1,000 people working every day on the project. That not only has created hundreds of new jobs for local people but also provides new opportunities for local businesses thanks to the increased footfall in the area.
But we don’t just want to help the local economy grow during the construction phase of the project. Our ambition is to leave a lasting legacy that restores Elephant & Castle as a major contributor to the Southwark economy and its local community, providing jobs, training and economic growth for the long term.
That is one of the main reasons we set-up the Artworks Elephant in 2014, a temporary shipping container community that has been providing incubator space for new and small businesses wanting to locate their company in Elephant & Castle. The Artworks is not something we have been obligated to deliver as part of the planning process, but something we wanted to
provide early-on in our programme to demonstrate the benefits that regeneration can deliver to a local economy.
Today, four years after the Artworks opened, we are about to open the first permanent business and retail spaces at Elephant Park. As we have been marketing for tenants to take these spaces, the Artworks has helped us prove that Elephant & Castle is a great place to start and grow your business.
If you go back through Elephant & Castle’s history, you’ll come across the name of a blacksmith called John Flaxman. In 1641, Flaxman established the Elephant’s first known business when he set-up a blacksmith’s forge to take advantage of the passing horse-drawn traffic. Fast forward to today and Elephant & Castle – with two tube lines, the Thameslink
and 28 bus routes – is still known to many Londoners as a place you pass through as you’re making your way somewhere else.
But that reputation is quickly changing. With more and more businesses choosing to put down their roots here, and exciting green spaces like Elephant Park opening up to the public, Elephant & Castle is fast becoming the place it was during its heyday – a thriving part of the Southwark economy.
“A good working environment and surroundings are critical to any business and Southwark Chamber of Commerce supports redevelopments which delivers this. We see these major developments as creating commercial destinations which will stimulate growth and prosperity in the borough.” Peter Mantell Chairman Southwark Chamber of Commerce
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Sector Focus Property
Forge Architects 25 years on… Tim Wood looks back at 25 years in business with Forge Architects. At the height of the 1980s recession, I thought it would be a good idea to set up an architecture practice! Forge started, like most firms, in my home in Borough. By 1993 that practice became Forge Architects and I am delighted to be celebrating 25 years.
A lot has happened during that time in Southwark, with many positive changes being made. I am proud to say that Forge Architects has played an active leading role in that regeneration, serving the community and facilitating growth across the borough.
In the beginning we worked with some of the survivors and victims of a pretty difficult recession, recovering and recuperating asset value that was at risk of being lost. I think we were good at what we did, working with developers to maximise value and work out solutions to property issues. It certainly helped that I had a development portfolio of my own and knew first hand what the issues were.
We grew quite quickly carrying out a lot of recovery work for banks. This line of work even involved setting up a small building company to carry out the construction work.
What’s in a name?
We took the name Forge from ‘Suthwerk’ Forge the property I lived in. The building started life as a tanners, but was taken over in 1860 by a dyslexic Blacksmith called Burkett, hence the misspelling of Suthwerk.
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As the market improved, so did we. The biggest benefit of this was that we could use some of our profits for community work. Bankside and Borough in those days was a very different place. The small parks and Open Spaces were unloved and derelict. We helped initiate a ‘Friends of’ group for Mint Street Park and eventually this evolved into Bankside Open Spaces Trust (BOST) a multi award-winning charity that creates, protects, transforms and maintains existing and new open space in North Southwark and Lambeth. Forge have helped out in a number of ways over the years and presently I chair the Board of Trustees. BOST has launched the second phase of the Marlborough Sports Garden this year one of the 45 spaces that it is involved with.
Forge has also helped many other local organisations offering pro-bono property advice and work in kind. We are currently helping Southwark Playhouse and Resonance FM with their property plans. In the past we have helped organisations like Surrey Docks Farm, Cooltan Arts, The Abbey Community Centre and some local primary schools. This notion of ‘giving back’ is only made possible by the commercial clients that we
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
work for on their development projects. A percentage of the profits made from this work helps finance the community work.
Besides benefitting our local community, we found that by being involved in these grass roots projects, one of our key strengths was consultation. We take consultation very seriously. To us, consultation means listening to people rather than telling them how wonderful a design is. This is something we pride ourselves on along with the ability to put into action what we have learnt from listening.
Everyone in the office is on board with this. There is a great ‘cando’ spirit here which stems from giving back, listening to clients and stakeholders, and generally enjoying the process. We make sure that the day to day routine is fun. We’re all music fans, so naturally, as an office, we’ve
been to every Glastonbury Festival since 2002.
I find it interesting that our inception in a recession has helped our stability as a company. We were able to get through the 2008 recession without losing any staff. It also helps to have a range of work in the office not just residential. We do a bit of commercial, community, and industrial work as well.
The next 25 years
I’m looking forward to a greater degree of employee ownership. Everyone here is taking more and more responsibility within the practice. They are the legacy. It’s up to them whether they want to grow the size of the practice. My job is making sure that they are growing individually so that they can take on the responsibility of running the business.
“There is a great ‘can-do’ spirit here which stems from giving back, listening to clients and stakeholders, and generally enjoying the process. We make sure that the day to day routine is fun.”
Sector Focus Property
Grosvenor:
Active community involvement at the heart of our proposals Following submission of our ambitious proposals for the former Peek Frean and Lewisham and Southwark College sites to Southwark Council last year, we have been continuing our programme of community involvement in the local area. We want to transform the largely closed-off site, covering 12 acres of land, into an active mixed-use neighbourhood. However, this does not only begin when construction starts. Over the last four years, we have run a significant community investment programme covering training projects, initiatives and events that we hope make a real difference to local people and prove our long term commitment to Bermondsey. We were delighted to recently host our fourth annual Bermondsey Summer Fete. This year, the event was bigger than ever, with over 1,200 people enjoying the family activities, live music and local food and drink stalls. We were also delighted to raise over £1,400 for Bede House Association. Another highlight of this year was our involvement in the SME Excellence Awards at the inaugural Southwark Business Awards. Successful entrepreneurship is critical to a thriving local economy in Southwark and Bermondsey and
we hope our contributions can help ambitious start-ups and growing companies succeed long into the future. Our proposals for the site also include space for start-ups and small retail units, which will ensure diversity in local employment opportunities which we believe is crucial to creating a mixed community. We hope to have a decision on our application in the coming months. If approved, we will build 1,342 new rental homes, alongside a 600-place secondary school, over 10,000 m² of new office units and c. 10,000m² of retail, leisure, community and food and drink space.
The neighbourhood we have designed will be open and inviting to residents and the wider community. We will deliver new children’s play spaces, pedestrian friendly streets and two new routes through the railway arches improving connections from the tube station to The Blue (this is subject to additional consents). Our plans would create 2,500 new jobs and provide an estimated annual boost to local spending of £30 million.
To find out more, please visit
www.belonginbermondsey.com Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
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FORGEARCHITECTS Successfully working in Southwark on commercial, residential and community regeneration projects for...
25 6 - 8 Cole St. London SE1 4YH
years
020 7378 7782 forgearchitects.co.uk
Residential - Commercial - Community - Masterplanning
Sector Focus - Property
Thriving side-by-side The Canada Water Masterplan is a partnership between British Land and Southwark Council, working with the local community and other key stakeholders, to deliver a unique new urban centre for Southwark. Over the next 15 years, the Masterplan is expected to deliver around 2 million sq ft of office and workspace and to be home to around 20,000 jobs across workspace, retail, and leisure. Our vision is that the Masterplan becomes a place where businesses old and new can thrive side-by-side, and we are committed to ensuring that the Masterplan delivers benefits for everyone who lives, works and spends time in the area. To deliver this, we are partnering with local organisations including Time & Talents and the Bermondsey Community Kitchen, as well as establishing our own pilot programmes to secure the benefits of the Masterplan for the wider community.
Tree Shepherd
Tree Shepherd is a Southwark-based charity whose mission is to create employment and connect communities by bringing the talents of local people and local enterprises into business networks where they share their ideas, skills and knowledge. Since 2017, we have been working with Tree Shepherd on a three-year start-up and business support programme in Canada Water called Start Up and Thrive. Through the Start your Own Enterprise eight week training programmes complemented by ongoing business clinics open to all local residents and with experienced mentors, the programme aims to encourage and support start-ups and entrepreneurs from the local area every step of the way. The latest course welcomed 16 budding entrepreneurs, and one of the graduates of the first cohort now works as a business connector for the programme. Through British Land’s support, the programme will soon launch Thrive in a vacant restaurant unit in Surrey Quays Leisure Park. Thrive will be a temporary new workspace for micro enterprises in Canada Water operating on a low-cost subscription basis.
The next Start Your Own Enterprise course kicks off on the 10th of October. For more information and to register, visit https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ T2WHX7K If you’d like information about the Start Up and Thrive programme and the opportunities available, please visit www.treeshepherd.org.uk/ regeneration/canada-water
Meet the Graduates Katy Kibbs
Katy graduated the Canada Water Start Your Own Enterprise course in December 2017 and launched a unique range of upcycled earrings she designs herself. After working as a motion graphic designer for several years, she started making earrings as a hobby and her passion grew for the creative process and for making things that people love. Since graduating, she has been developing her product line and building up her website, which you can visit at www.katykibbs.com
You can follow Katy on Instagram @Katy_Kibbs_Design and on Facebook: Katy Kibbs Designs.
Amira Rowland
Amira is a mother-of-two whose baby clothes brand, Love Lil’Mo, started out as a hobby but grew into a business after she spotted a gap in the market. Since graduating from the Start Your Own Enterprise programme in June 2018, Amira has begun to sell handmade bibs, clothes, pillows, toys and more at local fairs, and has a growing online presence.
To look at Amira’s creations, follow her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/lovelilmobaby) Etsy (www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LoveLilMo) and Instagram: www.instagram.com/lovelilmo.
Richard Bennett
Richard graduated the Canada Water Start Your Own Enterprise course in December 2017. His ambition was to start his own enterprise which provides gardens for people who don’t have vast amounts of space or time within their busy city lives. He went full time with his business at the end of June 2018. Visit Richard’s website, www.bermondseygardener.com, to find out more about his projects.
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Amelia Street project for Peabody/Durkan
The mixed use scheme consists of 55 dwellings and retail units over two to six storeys. All of the dwellings are designed to be dual aspect, including large private balconies and terraces. Ground floor residential dwellings will have access to the front and rear garden as well as direct aspect into the main soft and hard landscaped communal garden. The proposed scheme mediates between the large residential development to the west of the site and the lower public house buildings on Walworth Road.
The proposal is set back on the north east corner of the site to respect the listed building to the north and provide some public space. The faรงade mimics the historic fabric of the road, with similar proportioned windows above the shop units and the relationship of solid to void on the Walworth Road faรงade.
88 Union Street, London, SE1 0NW www.alancamp.com / 020 7593 1000
Scaffolding Services for Commercial and Residential across London
We are BCM scaffolding services Ltd and are one of the leading access providers within the Greater London area. We are based in Southwark and as a company we not only aspire to be the best, we also strive to be the safest scaffolding company within the industry. Our clients appreciate the efforts our staff go to in making your job as straight forward as possible.
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BCM Scaffolding Services Ltd 69 Southampton Way SE5 7SW London T: 020 7252 4688 F: 020 7252 4644 E: info@bcmscaffolding.co.uk
www.bcmscaffolding.co.uk
Sector Focus - Property
Exciting future for Elephant & Castle planned Delancey explains the proposals for a new Elephant and Castle town centre 24
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
Sector Focus - Property
Our proposals offer a once in a lifetime opportunity to create an exciting new town centre at the heart of Elephant and Castle, making crucial improvements to the transport, education and housing provision for Southwark and the whole capital. The new town centre will include a range of high street and independent retailers, enhanced restaurant and leisure opportunities and much needed housing on a site where there is currently none.
It ensures the long-term future of UAL’s London College of Communication at Elephant and Castle, along with a modern transport system, and a commitment to maintaining the area’s unique vibrant culture.
Benefits include:
• 979 new homes, at a time when the capital’s housing provision is under significant strain. 35% will be affordable, and offered in priority to people living and working in Southwark
• New Northern Line entrance, escalators and ticket hall, better accessibility and step-free access to Elephant and Castle mainline railway station
• A cutting-edge new UAL London College of Communication building, including a centre for core university services. Ensuring its future in Elephant and Castle, where it’s been based for over half a century
• Around 175,000 sq ft of leisure facilities, shops and restaurants
• Community leisure space Delancey has offered a bingo operator first refusal on one of the leisure spaces in the proposed development on the west site (current London College of Communication site), with leisure space on the east site (current shopping centre site) that could be used as a cinema
• On-site affordable retail and workspace facilities
• Significant job creation during build, 1,230 construction workers per year needed across the build and almost 2,000 full time jobs for the new town centre • 2.5 acres of high quality public realm including new safer pedestrian routes, railway arches and a public square
• Business support and relocation fund for independent traders and first right to return to affordable retail units (10% of total) in the new town centre
The redevelopment of the town centre is integral to Southwark’s wider regeneration plan for the area, and a focal point and cornerstone of the
wider £3 billion regeneration underway in Elephant and Castle.
We are passionate and committed about having the opportunity to create and build our vision. We are looking forward to bringing a wide range of benefits for the community and London as a whole, following on from Southwark Council resolving to grant consent for our proposals on 3 July. We are now working through a number of phases ahead of works beginning, with the whole town centre taking around ten years to complete.
that we take our responsibility extremely seriously and know our reputation in Elephant and Castle will need to be hard-earnt in the long-run. We remain open to debate and embrace the next stages with great optimism about what can be achieved for all.
We know that the task we face going forward in delivering this project, in an inclusive and positive manner, is huge. We want to assure the community
www.elephantandcastletowncentre.co.uk
The redevelopment of the town centre is integral to Southwark’s wider regeneration plan for the area, and a focal point and cornerstone of the wider £3 billion regeneration underway in Elephant and Castle. Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
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Property Sector Focus
Delivering sustainable design worldwide from the heart of Bermondsey James and Julie Ross are the Directors of the successful building services engineering consultancy and have been based at SE1 post code for more than 20 years. They have expanded the business across the country and now delivering international projects from CDI offices in London, Sheffield and Edinburgh. The company provides sustainable design solutions for built environment through fully integrated 3D modelling. The company consists of teams of experienced mechanical, electrical, public health services engineers and highly qualified BIM, CAD and thermal modelling specialists.
CD International is committed to develop consultancy appointments throughout all areas of the commercial sectors: retail, offices, residential,
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hotel and leisure and tailored to meet the client specific needs.
As part of the local community, CDI has been proud to work with local businesses. This has included the refurbishment of the Stage offices, The Hide and Wine Centre, the Tannery located along Bermondsey Street, as well new multiple residential developments on New and Old Kent Road, around Surrey Quays, Canada Water etc. Currently, CD International is undertaking a very complex refurbishment of 40,000sqm of
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
a former office building on Strand into a mixed use scheme, which will include creative industries offices, hotel, private club, co-working spaces and a gym. CDI has been a long standing service provider for a well known English establishment – Butlin’s and Haven holiday Parks, completing this year a new 6,000sqm waterpark at Bognor Regis.
The company has extended the geography of its projects across the UK and internationally, into Central and Eastern Europe,
Central Asia and North Africa. Recent examples include a new residential complex for 4,000 units in Uzbekistan, retail centre in Serbia and 160,000sqm mixed use development in the old harbour of Tallinn, Estonia. The range of services includes advice and planning application, feasibility studies, design for MEP building services, building thermal modelling, tendering and construction supervision, following up with operation set up and maintenance.
In July 2018 Great Portland Estates plc (GPE) announced exciting plans for the redevelopment of the land and properties at 4/26 St Thomas Street, known as New City Court.
Records from 1881 documented the demise of the yards as the coaching inn functions became redundant with the arrival of the railway at London Bridge. Despite calls for their preservation, the yards were subject to substantial clearance and ceased to function as destinations in their own right.
The proposed development aims to restore and improve an important historical site at the heart of London Bridge. The site, located just behind the Borough High Street exit of the London Bridge Tube station, comprises a listed Georgian terrace along St Thomas Street, Keats House and a 1980s of ce block which will be refurbished and redeveloped to provide:
Over time the nature and use of King’s Head Yard has changed and today it provides little more than a service route for the site and other buildings along it. The building footprint of the early 1980s of ce block has removed usable outdoor spaces and closed off historic routes into and across the site.
Improvements to the existing London Underground Entrance/Exit arrangements on Borough High Street, including the creation of a new station entrance on the building’s east side to improve pedestrian flow. Create approximately 1,900m2 of new public space, including a new courtyard made up of 1,300m2 of outdoor recreational space and 600m2 elevated gardens in the proposed new building Approximately 2,300m2 of new retail space and 31,600m2 of new of ce space through enhancing the existing historic buildings on site and in the proposed new building Historically the site has played an important role in London’s economy; accommodating a number of different functions including a Church and burial ground, but perhaps most crucially as a coaching inn and stable yard, providing accommodation for travellers and merchants before they crossed London’s only bridge into the City.
However, GPE are seeking to turn around the fortunes of this once crucial site. James Shipton, the Development Manager at Great Portland Estates plc said:
‘Our proposals for the New City Court site unlock the potential of the site and respect its rich heritage by providing much needed vibrant public space and new amenities. London Bridge is a recognised destination for London, for commercial interest, tourists, and as the home of many Londoners. By providing a vibrant retail offer and a range of flexible of ce spaces in the enhanced 18th Century Georgian Terrace and Keats House, as well as a new public square and an ‘elevated garden’ to enjoy a unique panoramic view of London and the wider area, we will create a new destination within the London Bridge area to be enjoyed by workers, visitors, and local residents alike.’ GPE will be consulting on their nal plans later this year. To nd out more about the New City Court development please visit: www.newcitycourt.com
Women in Business
Successful Business Women in Southwark This issue we talk to businesswomen who makes a difference in their field.
Preparing students for work lies at the heart of college’s approach to education Marketing, who took up her post in February 2018 as the latest step in a career spent in education.
A central part of her job is to ensure that the college has recruited the right number – and the right calibre – of students and she said: “Education is a highly competitive sector because young people have so many options.
Sandra Bauer Head of Student Recruitment and Marketing Lewisham Southwark College Talk to any business person about the skills shortage and they will not take long to observe that too many young people apply for jobs without the necessary understanding of the world of work.
The need to address that concern and produce work-ready young people is what drives the team at Lewisham Southwark College, a further education college with three campuses across south east London.
One of the key staff members is Sandra Bauer, Head of Student Recruitment and
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“What has made it more challenging is the fact that their London Oyster cards gives them free bus travel right across London.”
Once the students have completed their GCSEs and enrol at the college, they can join courses in subjects as diverse as health and beauty, catering, the arts, business and construction.
Students are able to progress through these levels into university-level study, as the college also offers a range of Foundation degrees – and an MBA – all with competitively priced fees.
The staff passionately believe in encouraging talent in a friendly and supportive environment and deliver a range of exciting, vocational courses, welcoming teenage and adult learners with the aim of creating employable graduates with relevant work skills. Sandra said: “We hear employers saying that young candidates do not have enough knowledge of the workplace and we set out to address that.
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
“What differentiates us from a lot of other colleges is the way we focus on giving our students workplace experience. “Most of our courses include a lot of placements in industry and on-site we do a lot to offer practical experience.
“For example, our catering students run a café and a restaurant and our construction students are given the opportunity to build structures. “We try to make our courses feel as much like the workplace as possible, using simulated environments like the inside of a Boeing passenger plane for our Cabin Crew course, and the students are fortunate in that our lecturers tend to have worked in the sector in which they teach. “In addition, our students are taught about things like writing CVS and preparing for interviews.
“One of the things that we do feel needs addressing at a national level is the number
of students who come to us without the basic English and Maths skills.
“They are the most important foundation for further study but quite often we have to work them into the courses we teach. We need to find a way of improving the way the subjects are taught, they need to be more exciting and interesting. Only then can we begin bringing about an increase in young people taking STEM subjects.” And the College is not content with simply passing on the message to students. Next year, it will start a programme in which its staff revisit their own education.
Sandra said: “Some of our staff, including senior people, will be going back thirty or forty years in some cases to re-take their GCSEs, reminding them what it feels like to take those exams, which we think will help their teaching and understanding of the issues facing our young people.”
“We try to make our courses feel as much like the workplace as possible, using simulated environments like the inside of a Boeing passenger plane for our Cabin Crew course, and the students are fortunate in that our lecturers tend to have worked in the sector in which they teach.”
Women in Business
Looking forward to a changing workplace Katharine Woodcock Headmistress Sydenham High School GDST
Combining a respect for tradition with an eagerness to embrace the future is proving a successful combination for Sydenham High School GDST, which has been led for the past year and a half by Katharine Woodcock.
Katharine was appointed as Headteacher of the all-girls school with effect from April 2017 and has continued to develop the curriculum so that pupils are ready to embrace the world of work.
However, for all she is increasingly developing subjects like technology and workplace knowledge into the curriculum, she recognises the need to respect the academic traditions on which the school has been built. Katharine, who replaced Kathryn Pullen when she retired after 26 years at the South London school, 14 of them as Headteacher, said: “My first year and a half has been a balancing act between preserving the culture and ethos of the school, which has proved so successful, while also developing what we offer.
“You simply cannot afford to stand still in education and we work hard to give our students
as rounded an education as possible in order to prepare them for the world of work.”
As Headteacher of an all-girls school, Katharine is acutely aware that one of the challenges for which the school must prepare its pupils is the concern that too many industries are still maledominated.
However, she remains optimistic that change is happening and happening quickly, saying: “I believe that increasing opportunities are available to our girls. You do hear concerns that too many companies are male-dominated but I think that you have to look beyond the headlines.
“We are seeing big change. This year has seen celebrations for one hundred years since women were granted the vote and if you look at where we were one hundred years ago you can see what great progress has been made for women.”
Katharine came to the school in a career that had previously seen her work as the Senior Deputy Head of Queen’s College, another all-girls school based in central London. Like Sydenham High, Queen’s College educates girls between the ages of 4-18 and as
Deputy Head, Katharine was responsible for the day-to-day management of the school.
A key part of her approach at Sydenham High School has been to ensure that the pupils are properly prepared to take advantage of the opportunities when they enter the workplace.
She said: “Education is not just about what happens in the classroom. We seek to provide something that is more rounded than that. Yes, qualifications are important but you have to look beyond that and a diverse co-curricular offering is key. “We also offer programmes which allow pupils throughout the school to learn about the outside world.
One example is our Professional Skills Programme which brings people into school from a range of organisations, including from businesses, to teach the pupils about the kind of skills that they will need in the workplace. I think it is key that the girls are exposed to as many experiences as possible. “We are constantly looking forward and one of the big focuses for us is technology. Our girls are living in a world where social media and Artificial Intelligence are changing the way we live and work and moving forward, including these in our curriculum is paramount, so that our pupils are prepared.”
“Education is not just about what happens in the classroom. We seek to provide something that is more rounded than that. Yes, qualifications are important but you have to look beyond that and a diverse co-curricular offering is key.”
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your next treatment. Just mention chamber of commerce*
Health & Wellbeing
Back to Work with a Healthy Spine According to the TUC British businesses lose 4.9m days to absenteeism through work related back pain at a cost of £5bn per annum and according to On Your Feet Britain 68% of employees surveyed spent a total of 5 or more hours seated at their desks. By James Gill - bodytonic clinic To help you with your posture at work we have compiled the top 5 tips to keep your spine healthy and your body moving. • Take regular breaks - get away from your desk and go for a walk to stretch those legs! If that’s not so easy, walk to the water cooler or just stand up to avoid hours of prolonged sitting. Regular exercise and stretching will also help such as yoga and pilates. You can do some of these movements at your desk or even attend a lunchtime class like anti-desk yoga which focuses on the posture of the spine and muscles of the upper back and shoulders. • Work with the best – there’s lots of equipment you can use to help you improve your posture at work. From sit-stand desk and adjustable chairs to wrist pads
and foot rests. These are designed to support and promoted better posture and movement. • Are you set up properly? You may need an ergonomic desk assessment provided by your companies occupational health team or local manual therapist such as an osteopath. An ergonomic assessment will help to position your chair and desk correctly, keeping your screen at eye level and feet on the ground or on a foot rest. • Keep your mouse and phone close - keep close whatever you use regularly so that you avoid repetitive overreaching or twisting. • When was the last time you had your eyes checked? Most of us work with computers and staring at a computer screen is not great for the eyes. Poor
eyesight or incorrect prescriptions of contact lenses and glasses can lead to changes in your posture causing musculo-skeletal injuries such as neck and back pain and even headaches.
Do you need further help? Having read the tips above you may think that you need to call upon your occupational health team or book in for an eye test. You may also wish you visit a health professional such as an osteopath who can help with various injuries and conditions such as back ache and pain, headaches, muscles spasm and sports injuries which can all be aggravated by prolonged sitting at work. You may be able to get your treatments provided by your workplace medical insurance policy from companies such as BUPA, AXA PPP or Simplyhealth.
At bodytonic clinic our team of osteopaths are on hand to advise and treat patients and for those unsure how we can help we provide a free 15 minute osteopathy consultation so you can visit the clinic and meet our team of therapists.
10-11 Dock Offices Surrey Quays Road, London SE16 2XU
0203 6060 490
bodytonicclinic.co.uk
Canada Water, Stratford and Wapping
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Voice from Westminster
A no deal Brexit is unfathomable for our country and businesses Neil Coyle MP There is very little time now to go until the final terms of the withdrawal agreement from the EU are supposed to be determined.
They worry me - and the vast majority of employers I meet with - greatly. In recent months Government statements and revelations have exposed fears of stockpiling medicine and food and the potential to have to deploy the military to retain law and order. None of that was on the side of any bus two years ago.
Voters and businesses have watched this Government’s ‘negotiation strategy’ over the last two years with horror. Early on it became very clear that everything the Leave campaign promised was being jettisoned. No new money for the NHS. No simple new deal with the EU or the many countries it binds into trade deals that have brought huge benefits to the UK previously. I have looked on aghast at how incompetently this Government has been throughout one of the most important transitions in our nation’s history. May has repeatedly put party interest ahead of national interest. She has consistently ignored warnings and pleas from businesses and sector experts and unfailingly embarrassed our country at every single stage of this process. Even the Trade Secretary Liam Fox now
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states we have a 60 per cent chance of leaving the wealthiest trade bloc on the planet with absolutely no deal whatsoever, destroying jobs and our international credibility.
A no deal Brexit is unfathomable for our country and businesses. 25 advisory documents that were published last month show the extent that a no deal would hit sectors such as health, science and finance. Let me know if you'd like a copy, but overnight we would switch to World Trade Organisation terms. Our borders, including Dover and Northern Ireland, would face unprecedented difficulties as increased tariffs and customs checks would be immediately initiated. A run on the pound is predicted. The fall out is unthinkable to any reasonable, patriotic Government. Unfortunately, May appears to be held hostage by the Brextremists in her party who do not care about the damage they are ideologically prepared to inflict. Locally, I have written previously about the aftershock for businesses of the horrific terror attack on London Bridge and Borough Market last year. Figures for the 150 businesses shut due to the police cordon and investigation suggest losses of over £2million and the Government has ignored requests to date and not yet paid out a penny.
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
Ministers have now paved the legislative way to close the insurance loophole to ensure that businesses affected by future attacks receive payment for ‘non damage business interruption’ that were not available in Southwark last year. I am pleased to have secured
this new law during the committee stages of the Bill. I am also working with Southwark Council, businesses affected, the Mayor of London and Southwark Chambers of Commerce to bid for belated Treasury help to the businesses affected.
If you were affected, or have any other concerns, please do get in touch with me at Neil.Coyle.MP@Parliament.UK or on 020 7219 8733.
“25 advisory documents that were published last month show the extent that a no deal would hit sectors such as health, science and finance.”
Last Word
Upcoming Events Join our informative and engaging range of events. A perfect opportunity to make new business contacts.
We’ve designed our events to help you broaden your network, learn something new or get involved with key topical issues for businesses in DATE
SEPTEMBER 21 st Evening Early Bird
Evening Monday 17th OCTOBER 15 Evening possible dates Sep 29th NOVEMBER Early Bird Early Bird DECEMBER Evening Evening JANUARY Early Bird Early Bird
FEBRUARY Evening Evening MARCH Evening APRIL Evening
25th 6pm
Southwark. Our networking events are great for regular members to make and maintain useful contacts, and we always welcome first-timers. EVENT
Canada Water Development Update History Walk Tourism and Leisure Dinner at the House of Lords
To be hosted by Lord Kennedy of Southwark Ceremony of the Keys
Leader of Southwark Council on way forward for the borough Mindfulness Gin Experience
Christmas Drinks
VENUE
The London Bridge Experience Surrey Quays Shopping Centre Back of Borough High Street (name tbc!) The Attlee Suite, House of Lords HM Tower of London Tooley Street tbc
Enid Street George Inn
Alternative Business Growth Pensions Update
An Evening with Sir Simon Hughes Cross border networking with South London Chamber
Annual General Meeting
Tom Lee
Regional Marketing Manager Everyone Active
Tom is a marketing and media professional based in London, certified by CIM with exceptional digital skills and a strong passion for content creation. Tom excels in the production and implementation of offline and online marketing collateral for integrated campaigns. A creative marketer, Tom is a creative marketer with a solid understanding of analytics and fundamental marketing principles who has extensive experience in the Health and Leisure Industry. He enjoys exercise and outdoor adventure, both at home and abroad.
Q1 What was your first job and what was the pay packet?
My first job was a lifeguard at Grange Paddocks Leisure Centre. I earned a significantly above average hourly rate for a 16-year-old at the time and pursued as much further training as possible whilst working at an operational level. In my spare time, I also honed my skill-set with photography and video production which has since lead me to develop my interest in wider marketing practices and principles.
Q2 If you were prime minister, what would be your first decision?
My first decision would be to create a tax for those businesses that have a negative impact on the health and wellbeing of the general public. As I work in the leisure industry, this is a particular passion of mine. My overall goal would be to implement changes that could help get more people, from all walks of life, more active. I would also increase taxes on businesses that aren’t reducing their carbon footprint as I’m an environmentally conscious individual.
Q3 What is the biggest challenge in your business?
Managing the daily demands of a large national fitness operator can be a challenge. In our business, it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. With so many different stakeholders, it is important to manage their expectations carefully. Also, the industry is growing exponentially, so staying up-to-date and ahead of what other operators are doing in the sector is key as this ensures we’re delivering value above that of the competition.
Q4 If you could do another job, what would it be?
I love my current job. I wouldn’t change it! Each day is different, and I get to channel my energy into something I’m really passionate about: improving people’s health, well-being and quality of life.
Property Update Europe – Business as usual?
The Last Word
The George Inn
Please check the website www.southwarkcommerce.com for updated information. Times and locations to be confirmed.
Q5 What's your favourite London building?
I love all the heritage buildings in London. One of my favourites is Dulwich Leisure Centre. This building was opened in 1892 as the Dulwich Public Baths making it London’s oldest public baths in continuous operation! The way the city is able to preserve the history and character of old buildings while updating them for modern use never ceases to amaze me. https://www.linkedin.com/in/MrTomLee
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Join Us
Join Us
The Chamber is made up of active and successful business people from a wide range of sectors, who are based in Southwark, believe in Southwark and wish Southwark to prosper.
Making the most of your SCC membership Our Committee Chairman Peter Mantell
Once you’ve joined us you have access to the opportunities we provide to help support you and your business. Whether you simply want to attend our networking events, run a seminar or sponsor or run an event, we’d love you to get involved. We like our members to make the most of their membership and get as involved as much as they can.
President Neil Coyle MP
(MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark)
Vice President Lord Roy Kennedy (House of Lords)
Vice President Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC MP
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• Large companies - 51 employees plus
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• Small/Medium sized companies 2 to 50 employees £150 per annum • Corporate/PLC’s by agreement.
• All new members pay a one off administration fee of £25
(MP for Camberwell and Peckham)
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Patron The Worshipful Mayor of Southwark (Former MP)
Council and Community Representatives Councillor Kieron Williams
(Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills & Innovation)
Executive Members
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Les Johnson
Vice Chair
Yoko De Souza
Vice Chair Honorary Secretary Honorary Treasurer Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Administrator
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Membership Application
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To join, please send your details to: Southwark Chamber of Commerce Southbank Techno Park, 90 London Road, London. SE1 6LN Tel : 07477 581977 Email : admin@southwarkcommerce.com www.SouthwarkCommerce.com Twitter : @southwarkcomm Facebook : southwarkcommerce
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