The Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/ Connect Local. Promote Local. Support Local Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:41:53 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 February 2026 members’ meeting minutes summary https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/february-2026-members-meeting-minutes-summary/ https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/february-2026-members-meeting-minutes-summary/#respond Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:41:53 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6901 Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce Meeting Minutes – Wednesday 25 February 2026 Apologies:...

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]]> Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce

Meeting Minutes – Wednesday 25 February 2026
Apologies: Dr Gareth Thomas, Duncan Murray (committee members)

1. Welcome & Introductions

  • The Chambers welcomed members and guests, confirmed the agenda, and thanked attendees for their time and contributions.

  • Purpose of meeting: The purpose of the meeting was to bring together stakeholders to address the growing flood risk in Market Harborough, raise awareness of its impact, and explore collaborative solutions. It also highlighted the importance of aligning skills development with local priorities, including sustainability and flood resilience, to support long-term community and economic growth.

2. Presentation: Flood Action – its YOUR business

Speakers: Bruce Durham, Chair, Harborough Flood Action Group
Slides: To educate local businesses on raising awareness, sharing initiatives and identifying opportunities to collaborate partnership working

Key Discussions

  • The meeting highlighted the increasing flood risk in Market Harborough, with approximately 2,300 properties identified as vulnerable due to factors such as extreme weather, surface water runoff, and ongoing development impacting drainage systems.
  • A strong emphasis was placed on the need for collective community action, recognising that flood prevention is not solely the responsibility of affected properties but requires engagement from residents, businesses, and organisations across the town. It was agreed that small, practical actions—such as reporting drainage issues, planting trees, and improving land permeability—can deliver significant cumulative impact when adopted widely.
  • Ongoing work in natural flood management was showcased, including collaboration with organisations such as the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust and local environmental groups. These initiatives aim to slow water flow, restore natural landscapes, and reduce pressure on existing drainage infrastructure.
  • The group also discussed funding opportunities, including a £400,000 application to Anglian Water, which—if successful—would support both infrastructure improvements and environmental interventions.
  • A key challenge identified was limited business engagement, with many organisations perceiving flooding as not directly affecting them. The meeting highlighted the need to shift this perception, reinforcing that flooding impacts the wider local economy and encouraging businesses to take proactive steps in building resilience.
  • Finally, the importance of partnership working was reinforced, with collaboration between local councils, community groups, environmental organisations, businesses, and government agencies seen as essential to delivering long-term, sustainable flood solutions.

Summary of Recommendations – Next Steps

  • To address flooding in Market Harborough, a coordinated, community-wide approach is needed. Key priorities include raising awareness that flooding affects the entire local economy, not just individual properties, and encouraging businesses and residents to take simple, practical actions.
  • Focus should be placed on engaging businesses through clear commitments, supported by targeted communications and practical workshops to drive behaviour change. Strengthening partnerships between councils, environmental organisations, businesses, and community groups will be essential to ensure a joined-up response.
  • Securing funding—such as the proposed £400,000 Anglian Water bid—alongside identifying quick, visible interventions in high-risk areas will help build momentum and demonstrate impact.
  • Overall, the approach should combine awareness, action, and collaboration, embedding flood resilience into local business and community planning to create long-term, sustainable solutions.

3. Presentation: Developing the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for LLR 2026–2029

Speakers: Harsh Shah, East Midlands Chamber; Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire
Slides: To educate local businesses on raising awareness, sharing initiatives and identifying opportunities to collaborate partnership working

Key Discussions

  • The discussion focused on the development of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for LLR 2026–2029, highlighting the need to better align education and training provision with the real needs of local businesses. It was recognised that many employers are experiencing skills gaps and recruitment challenges, and there is a need for stronger engagement to ensure their voices shape future provision.
  • The LSIP was positioned as a key mechanism to bridge the gap between employers, colleges, and universities, using local labour market insights to inform decision-making. There was also an emphasis on preparing for future skills demands, particularly in areas such as digital, sustainability, and sector-specific technical skills.
  • Overall, the discussion reinforced the importance of collaboration, improved employer engagement, and flexible training pathways to support workforce development and drive long-term economic growth in the region.

Key Takeaways 

  • Stronger alignment is needed between employers and education providers to ensure training reflects real business needs.
  • There is a persistent skills gap, particularly in attracting and retaining talent with the right capabilities.
  • Employer engagement must improve, with clearer, more accessible ways for businesses to influence training and provision.
  • The LSIP should act as a bridge between business demand and education supply, ensuring provision is relevant and responsive.
  • Greater focus is needed on future skills, including digital, green/sustainability, and sector-specific technical skills.
  • Collaboration is key, requiring stronger partnerships between businesses, colleges, universities, and stakeholders.
  • There is a need for better local labour market intelligence to inform decision-making and planning.
  • Flexible and accessible training pathways are essential to support workforce development across all sectors.
  • Embedding skills into wider priorities—such as economic growth, sustainability, and community resilience—will be critical for long-term success.
 4. Recommended Next Steps for all Businesses
  • Businesses are strongly encouraged to:
    • Recognise flood risk as a business risk
      Include flooding within your business continuity and risk management planning.
    • Take simple preventative actions
      Check and maintain drainage, report blockages, and consider small changes like permeable surfaces or sustainable landscaping.
    • Make a visible commitment to action
      Adopt at least one flood resilience measure and promote your involvement to encourage others.
    • Engage with local initiatives and partnerships
      Connect with the Chamber, community groups, and environmental organisations to stay informed and get involved.
    • Build awareness within your organisation
      Ensure staff understand flood risks and know what actions to take.
    • Support and participate in local campaigns and workshops
      Attend events and training to improve knowledge and preparedness.
    • Contribute to skills development
      Engage with the Local Skills Improvement Plan by sharing workforce needs and supporting training in sustainability and resilience.
    • Collaborate with other businesses
      Share best practice and work collectively to strengthen local resilience.
    • Stay informed and proactive
      Keep up to date with funding opportunities, guidance, and local developments related to flooding.

5. Update from Members & Networking Opportunities

  • The meeting provided a valuable opportunity for members to connect, share updates, and explore potential collaborations. Attendees discussed their current activities, services, and areas of interest, helping to strengthen relationships across the local business community.
  • There was a strong emphasis on the importance of networking as a driver for collaboration and growth, with members identifying opportunities to work together on initiatives such as flood resilience, community projects, and skills development.
  • New connections were formed between businesses, local organisations, and stakeholders, with several attendees expressing interest in follow-up conversations, partnerships, and joint initiatives. The session reinforced the Chamber’s role as a hub for engagement, knowledge sharing, and supporting local business success.
  • Members were encouraged to continue building relationships beyond the meeting and to actively participate in future Chamber events and initiatives.
  • Click here to view the presentation slides from this months meeting.

6. Dates for the Diary

  • Chamber of Commerce Meeting; 25 March, 5pm onwards
    • MHBS, The Point, Market Harborough, Networking from 5pm | Meeting starts 5.30pm sharp
    • This meeting will also be held online, if you are unable to make the meeting in person. Click here to attend the meeting online
    • All guests are welcome.
    • Join us for our monthly morning meeting, our monthly meetings are for both current members and new visitors looking to network and who are considering joining the Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

Get involved

  • Build relationships with local businesses at our next meeting.
  • Interested in presenting on your area of expertise or sharing member updates? We’d love to hear from you.

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]]> https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/february-2026-members-meeting-minutes-summary/feed/ 0 Local Businesses – Cyber crime is one of the fastest-growing threats facing businesses today – We Need Your Input! https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/we-need-your-input/ Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:20:35 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6663 Following a recent visit from the Leicestershire Police Cyber Crime Team, we are organising an...

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Following a recent visit from the Leicestershire Police Cyber Crime Team, we are organising an in-person Cyber & Digital Security session this April in Market Harborough to help businesses better protect themselves.
But we need to ensure the session focuses on the real risks and challenges facing local businesses right now and that’s where you come in.
We’ve created a short survey to gather feedback from businesses across Market Harborough and the surrounding area, and we need your responses urgently so we can shape the session around what matters most to you. It takes less than 2 minutes to complete. Complete the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KMMKMTP
Your input will help ensure this session delivers practical advice, expert insight from Leicestershire Police, and real solutions to protect your business.
Please also share with other local businesses who may benefit

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]]> Market Harborough Chamber Backs Bid for UK Town of Culture 2028 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/market-harborough-chamber-backs-bid-for-uk-town-of-culture-2028/ https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/market-harborough-chamber-backs-bid-for-uk-town-of-culture-2028/#respond Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:55:20 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6871 Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce has announced its support for the town’s bid...

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]]> Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce has announced its support for the town’s bid to become the UK Town of Culture 2028, marking an exciting step forward in celebrating the town’s heritage, community spirit, and thriving business landscape.

The bid is focused on showcasing what makes Market Harborough a vibrant place to live, work, and do business. It highlights the town’s rich history as a traditional trading hub, rooted in agriculture and market commerce, while recognising its evolution into a modern destination known for its strong high street and celebrated independent businesses.

For further information, please click the following link: Market Harborough Chamber Backs Bid for UK Town of Culture 2028 Press Release 

As well as the BBC article, which you can read here.

#MarketHarborough #TownOfCulture2028 #UKTownOfCulture  #HarboroughCulture #ProudHarborough

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]]> https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/market-harborough-chamber-backs-bid-for-uk-town-of-culture-2028/feed/ 0 January 2026 members’ meeting minutes summary https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/january-2026-members-meeting-minutes-summary/ Sun, 22 Feb 2026 17:02:03 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6808 Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce Meeting Minutes – Wednesday 28 January 2026 Apologies:...

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]]> Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce

Meeting Minutes – Wednesday 28 January 2026
Apologies: Abigail Brown, Jo Bluck

1. Welcome & Introductions

  • The President welcomed members and guests, confirmed the agenda, and thanked attendees for their time and contributions.

  • Purpose of meeting: To educate local businesses on current cyber threats, prevention strategies, and the free support services available through Leicestershire Police and national cyber security agencies.

2. Presentation: Cyber Security Awareness 

Speakers: DC 2959 Aaron Horn, Cybercrime Unit, Leicestershire Police
Slides: To educate local businesses on cyber threats, prevention measures, and free support

Key Takeaways

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a critical first line of defence and should be enabled on all business systems to prevent email compromise and financial fraud. Ransomware attacks are becoming more advanced, with organised groups stealing data and threatening to release it publicly to force payment. Businesses must use immutable backups to ensure data cannot be altered or deleted by attackers, enabling safe recovery. Free support is available from Leicestershire Police, including staff training, cyber awareness sessions, and fully funded technical audits to help businesses strengthen their cyber security such as:

  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is Essential – MFA is the single most effective defence against Business Email Compromise (BEC), which is one of the most common causes of financial fraud. All business accounts, particularly Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, banking, and mobile provider accounts, should have MFA enabled.
  • Ransomware is Increasingly Sophisticated – Cybercriminal groups now operate as organised cartels. They steal sensitive data before encrypting systems and threaten to release it publicly if payment is not made, increasing pressure on victims.
  • Backups Must Be Immutable – Standard backups such as NAS drives or cloud storage can be deleted or encrypted by attackers. Immutable backup solutions ensure data cannot be altered or destroyed, allowing businesses to recover safely.
  • Free Cyber Security Support is Available – Leicestershire Police offer free cyber awareness training, tabletop exercises, and the CyberPath programme, which provides fully funded technical audits conducted by trained cyber security students

Current Cyber Threat Landscape

  • Businesses face increasing cyber threats, including Business Email Compromise (BEC), ransomware, and SIM swapping.
  • Criminals may impersonate senior staff to request fraudulent payments, encrypt and threaten to release sensitive data, or take control of phone numbers to bypass security measures.
  • To reduce risk, organisations should implement multi-factor authentication (MFA), use immutable backup solutions, strengthen access controls, and introduce secondary verification processes for financial transactions.

Emerging Threats

  • Cybercriminals are increasingly using sophisticated methods to commit fraud and gain access to organisations.
  • Highly realistic fake documents, such as bank statements and payslips, can now be easily purchased online, making traditional verification methods less reliable.
  • In response, industries like mortgage and financial services are adopting more secure verification processes.
  • At the same time, identity fraud is evolving with the use of AI-generated identities and deepfake technology.
  • Criminals can impersonate job applicants or individuals during online interactions, allowing them to infiltrate organisations, access sensitive systems, and commit further fraud.
  • These developments highlight the need for stronger identity verification and increased vigilance during recruitment and financial processes.

Police Support and Reporting Structure

  • Businesses should report cybercrime incidents through the official Report Fraud service (formerly Action Fraud), which is the UK’s national reporting centre.
  • For urgent situations, businesses are advised to contact the Leicestershire Police Cybercrime Unit directly for faster support and response.
  • Cyber threats are monitored and investigated through a coordinated national structure, including the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which protects UK infrastructure, the National Crime Agency (NCA), which tackles serious and organised cybercrime, and the Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU), which manages regional enforcement and investigations.
4. Recommended Next Steps for all Businesses
  • Businesses are strongly encouraged to:
    • Enable MFA across all systems and accounts
    • Implement immutable backup solutions
    • Introduce two-step payment verification processes
    • Provide staff cyber awareness training
    • Report incidents directly to police cybercrime units when necessary

5. Update from Members & Networking Opportunities

  • Members shared general observations on cost pressures and the impact of frozen thresholds on staff and customers.
  • Several attendees discussed the need for improved retailer coordination on incident reporting and evidence capture.
  • Networking followed, with members encouraged to introduce themselves to new attendees and share upcoming offers/events.

6. Dates for the Diary

  • Chamber of Commerce Meeting; 25 February, 5pm onwards
    • MHBS, The Point, Market Harborough, Networking from 5pm | Meeting starts 5.30pm sharp
    • This meeting will also be held online, if you are unable to make the meeting in person. Click here to attend the meeting online
    • All guests are welcome.
    • Join us for our monthly morning meeting, our monthly meetings are for both current members and new visitors looking to network and who are considering joining the Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

Get involved

  • Build relationships with local businesses at our next meeting.
  • Interested in presenting on your area of expertise or sharing member updates? We’d love to hear from you.

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]]> November 2025 members’ meeting minutes summary https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/november-2025-members-meeting-minutes-summary/ Sun, 14 Dec 2025 11:17:02 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6783 Date: 26 November 2025 Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce Meeting Minutes – Wednesday...

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Date: 26 November 2025

Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce
Meeting Minutes – Wednesday 26 November 2025
Apologies: Martin Robson, Nick Darlow.

1. Welcome & Introductions

  • The President welcomed members and guests, confirmed the agenda, and thanked attendees for their time and contributions.

  • Purpose of meeting: Review the new Budget’s impact on local businesses and discuss local retail crime prevention and reporting.

2. Presentation:  Tax Assist Accountants and Crown House Wealth Management and Financial Advisors

Speakers: Paul Simpson, Tax Assist Accountants and Tim Wright, Crown House Wealth Management and Financial Advisors 
Slides: Understanding the Budget: What It Means for Local Businesses 

Context & Headline Position

  • The Budget aims to raise around £26bn by 2029–30 to restore fiscal stability, largely through “stealth” measures rather than headline rate rises.

Key “Stealth Tax” Measures Highlighted

  • Frozen thresholds: Income Tax and NI thresholds frozen until 2030–31 (a de facto increase as wages rise).

  • Higher tax on wealth/income streams:

    • Dividends: +2p

    • Savings interest: 20% → 22% above the personal savings allowance

    • Property income: 20% → 22%

  • High-value homes: new Council Tax band for properties over £2m (approx. £7,500/year additional cost cited).

  • EV / hybrid road usage tax: proposed 3p/mile for EVs and 1.5p/mile for hybrids (collection method unclear).

  • Pensions: salary sacrifice contributions over £2,000/year subject to NI from April 2029.

  • ISAs: Cash ISA limit reduced £20k → £12k (except for those over 65), encouraging stock market investment.

Business-Facing Measures

  • Apprenticeship Levy: time to spend levy reduced to one year (from two) before Treasury reclaim.

  • SMEs: 5% contribution requirement for apprenticeships under 25 waived (making apprenticeships more accessible).

Practical Guidance for Members

  • Recommendation: businesses should plan proactively and review tax strategy early; reactive changes later are often less effective and more costly.

  • Members were encouraged to seek tailored advice depending on structure (sole trader/limited company), investments, property holdings, pensions, and workforce plans.

3. Leicestershire Police Update

Speaker: PC Blencowe (Harborough & Wigston NPA)

Retail Crime: Current Picture

  • Retail crime remains a significant challenge, with police resources stretched across competing priorities.

  • Police reiterated the importance of consistent reporting of all incidents, including “low value” thefts, to build patterns and improve outcomes.

OptiTech Retail Crime Initiative (launched August 2024)

  • A dedicated retail crime approach/unit (“OptiTech”) has secured 343 charges since launch.

  • Key dependency: success relies on businesses providing high-quality evidence quickly.

What “Good Evidence” Looks Like

  • Ideal: CCTV clearly showing entry → concealment/theft → exit without payment.

  • Minimum helpful standard: clear facial stills suitable for identification.

  • Police confirmed footage is circulated internally to identify offenders, including those traveling into the area.

Tools & Reporting

  • DISC App: helpful for sharing information between retailers, but does not replace reporting to the police.

  • Retail Crime Packs: available to support evidence capture, statement writing, and submission standards.

  • AI transcription (“Goodson”) is being used to reduce officer administration time by transcribing video statements.

Other Crime Issues Raised

  • Counterfeit money:

    • For larger sums: report to police.

    • For smaller amounts: contact the Bank of England directly for quicker processing/reimbursement routes (where applicable).

  • Money laundering: police act on intelligence, including from HMRC.

  • Anti-social behaviour: no significant increase reported; police will increase patrol visibility during the Christmas period in key areas.

Police actions/asks:

  • Businesses to report every incident and submit evidence in the recommended format.

  • Members encouraged to use the retail crime pack to standardise submissions and reduce delays.

4. Chamber Update

Speaker: Dr Gareth Thomas (President)

Media & Profile

  • A planned positive Daily Express feature was edited into a more provocative angle; despite this, it still generated strong attention and led to a BBC interview scheduled for 28.11.25.

New Chamber Initiatives (Volunteer Leads Needed)

  • Focus groups: volunteers requested to lead and shape:

    • Micro-business focus group

    • “Soul Trains” businesses focus group (local identity/community-led enterprises)

Skills Summit — January 2025 (in development)

  • Partnership intention with the Council to focus on skills, apprenticeships, and recruitment.

  • Aim to attract larger employers by hosting near Magna Park.

  • Planning currently informal due to the council by-election period.

North City South Consultation (anticipated January)

  • Chamber supports a more holistic approach to strengthen regional influence.

  • Members will be encouraged to respond once the central government consultation opens.

5. Update from Members & Networking Opportunities

  • Members shared general observations on cost pressures and the impact of frozen thresholds on staff and customers.
  • Several attendees discussed the need for improved retailer coordination on incident reporting and evidence capture.
  • Networking followed, with members encouraged to introduce themselves to new attendees and share upcoming offers/events.

6. Dates for the Diary

7. Presentation Slides

Please click here to view the Chamber November Slides which were shown to members during the meeting.

Get involved

Build relationships with local businesses at our next meeting.

Interested in presenting on your area of expertise or sharing member updates? We’d love to hear from you.

Next Chamber Members Meeting

Wednesday 28 January 2026
Arrival: from 5:00pm | Meeting: 5:30–7:00pm
Venue: Market Harborough Building Society, Newcombe House, 16 The Point, Market Harborough, LE16 7QU

All guests are welcome.

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]]> October 2025 members’ meeting minutes summary https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/october-2025-members-meeting-minutes-summary/ Mon, 24 Nov 2025 19:31:58 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6771 Chamber Members Meeting — Minutes Date: 29 October 2025 Market Harborough Chamber of Trade &...

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Chamber Members Meeting — Minutes

Date: 29 October 2025

Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce
Meeting Minutes – Wednesday 29 October 2025
Apologies: Martin Robson, Nick Darlow.
1. Welcome & Introductions
Gareth opened the meeting, walked members through the agenda and welcomed all attendees.
2. Presentation: Market Harborough Building Society (MHBS)

Speaker: Toby Patterson, Branch Manager
Slides: MHBS Overview & OneBanx Machine

Toby shared an overview of MHBS’ mission, their branch network (Kettering, Rothwell, Desborough and Market Harborough), and their strong commitment to delivering meaningful community impact.

Key Highlights:

  • MHBS continues to prioritise a community-first approach in all areas of its work.

  • Introduction of the OneBanx Machine, a free-to-use service offering essential day-to-day banking support.

  • The machine provides secure, accessible facilities for both individuals and businesses—particularly valuable for those affected by reduced high-street banking options.

  • Toby confirmed that the full slide deck will be shared with attendees.

If you would like to speak with Toby directly, you can contact him at: 📧 tpatterson@mhbs.co.uk or 📞 07885 419012

3. Community Awards Recap
Gareth recapped the recent Community Awards and highlighted the finalists:
  • Welcomm
  • Magna Park Management Company
  • TGW
  • MHBS
He emphasised the importance of member voting and supporting each other’s work.
4. Presentation: Harborough Rewilding Project
Speakers: John Richardson & Ben Devine
Slides: Harborough Rewilding Programme Slides to follow
John provided a comprehensive overview of the council’s ambitious long-term plan to create a legacy of ecological recovery and community wellbeing.
Key Headlines from the Presentation:
  • John inherited significant operational challenges: no fleet of road sweepers and refuse trucks, no depot, limited resources.
  • Over several years the council acquired a strategically located set of land parcels adjacent to the existing depot—now the foundation of the rewilding vision.
  • Ambition: Restore land to natural conditions, improve biodiversity, and create a publicly accessible asset for future generations.
  • Timescale: 2–20 years, with aspirations to see a noticeable reversal in biodiversity decline by 2050.
  • Rewilding could include natural regeneration, tree planting, new habitats, and landscape-scale connectivity (including woodland, national cycle routes, canal, old railway lines).
  • Potential for the site to become a “Bradgate Park of Harborough” in the long term.
Why the Council Is Doing This:
  • Promote health & wellbeing through open green spaces.
  • Boost sustainable transport, tourism, and the visitor economy.
  • Create new business opportunities and strengthen environmental responsibility.
Progress to Date:
  • Land secured; governance structure established.
  • Over 150 local volunteers already expressed interest.
  • Baseline ecology surveys underway.
  • Funding bids in progress with the National Heritage Lottery and Forestry Commission.
  • Scoping of visitor centre, café, infrastructure, and habitat creation.
Business Engagement:
John invited local businesses to help shape the project, especially around community use, access, and future fundraising or corporate volunteering days. Groups and people who are interested in getting involved in the Rewilding Harborough project can email: rewildingproject@harborough.gov.uk
Q&A Highlights:
  • Housing pressures: Project land to be protected through covenants.
  • Concerns over future use: Council officers will recommend protection; decisions remain with elected members but safeguards planned.
  • Parking & access: Newly purchased depot areas could be repurposed.
  • Tourism need: Hotels and wider visitor infrastructure will need reviewing.
5. Chamber Updates (Gareth)
Business Voice & Advocacy
  • Chamber continues to highlight member concerns such as the Light and Life Festival to the council.
  • Members encouraged to raise concerns—Chamber is in a strong position to influence on behalf of businesses.
  • Work ongoing to rebuild a strong, collaborative business community.
  • Recent engagement with Rotary, Round Table, and 41 Club to strengthen business–community links.
Movember Charity Event
  • Andy’s Man Club + Movember collaborating on a major fundraising event at The Three Swans in late November.
  • A dedicated Mo’ket Harborough Facebook page is already in existent and will will be used to drive local sponsorship and support.
Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP)
  • Lack of FE provision in Harborough remains a challenge.
  • Chamber will run a workshop to ensure local businesses’ voices are included.
  • DMU continues to benefit from Chamber membership.
Local Government Reform
  • New proposals now include Rutland.
  • Gareth will circulate an explainer so members can provide informed feedback.
Community Awards Participation
  • Low member voting numbers were disappointing.
  • A future meeting will focus on how members can better promote their businesses and share good news.
Business Engagement Opportunities
  • Robert Smyth School seeking business volunteers for workshops. Dates to follow.
  • Help to Grow: Management Programme recommended for SMEs—links to be shared.
  • British Business Bank hosting two free webinars on business investment.
  • Cybersecurity for SMEs – free sessions available; details to follow.
6. Dates for the Diary
7. MHBS Additional Update
MHBS has secured planning permission to redevelop the existing branch, including:
  • A new community space
  • Conversion of remaining space into flats
  • Ongoing commitment to community-centred development
8. Presentation Slides
Please click here to view the Chamber October Slides which were shown to members during the meeting.

Get involved

Build relationships with local businesses at our next meeting.

Interested in presenting on your area of expertise or sharing member updates? We’d love to hear from you.

Next Chamber Members Meeting

Wednesday 26 November 2025
Arrival: from 5:00pm | Meeting: 5:30–7:00pm
Venue: Market Harborough Building Society, Newcombe House, 16 The Point, Market Harborough, LE16 7QU

All guests are welcome.

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]]> September 2025 members’ meeting minutes summary https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/september-2025-members-meeting-minutes-summary/ Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:53:05 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6594 Chamber Members Meeting — Minutes Date: 24 September 2025 Jo Bluck; Director of Communications chaired...

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Chamber Members Meeting — Minutes

Date: 24 September 2025

Jo Bluck; Director of Communications chaired the meeting in Gareth Thomas’s absence. The session covered Chamber updates, welcomed new members, and featured talks on vehicle leasing and the tax implications of company cars.

Guest speakers

  • Nick Darlow, ND Vehicle Consultancy

  • Paul Simpson, TaxAssist Accountants (Market Harborough)

Key takeaways

  • The Chamber is actively welcoming new members from across the Harborough District and town centre.

  • Grants are available via Harborough District Council (see below).

  • Vehicle leasing can be a smart option—especially during the shift to EVs—but comes with pros/cons to weigh.

  • Tax treatment for vehicles varies by business structure and vehicle type; EVs are currently the most tax-efficient.

Chamber updates

  • Light & Life Festival: Requesting a meeting with John Richardson (Harborough District Council) to discuss concerns.

  • Parliament Visit: Planning a visit with MP Neil O’Brien (date TBC). If you would be interested in attending this visit, please email secretary@harboroughchamber.co.uk with your interest. Once we have confirmed numbers, we will update you.

  • Community Awards: 9 October 2025, Lutterworth College. Please read the full press release here.

  • Movember Charity Evening: 27 November, The Three Swans — full details will be shared at the October meeting.

  • Christmas Social: Early December, The Three Swans — full details will be confirmed at the October meeting.

Grant opportunities (Harborough District Council)

  • UK Shared Prosperity Fund: Up to £2,000 for green growth & innovation.

  • Rural Grants: £5,000–£20,000 available.

  • Deadline: 31 October 2025.

  • Free business advice: Contact advisor Gal Naik — G.Naik@harborough.gov.uk.

Summary: Vehicle leasing (Nick Darlow, ND Vehicle Consultancy)

  • Typically lower deposits and monthly payments than purchasing.

  • Access to newer vehicles with warranty cover.

  • No resale hassle at end of term.

  • Mileage caps apply; excess charges can add up.

  • Not ideal if driving 20,000+ miles/year.

  • EVs are currently the most tax-efficient choice.

Summary: Vehicle tax considerations (Paul Simpson, TaxAssist Accountants)

  • VAT and deductions depend on business structure and vehicle type.

  • Capital allowances linked to CO₂ emissions; EVs most favourable.

  • Benefit-in-kind (BIK) rates are significantly lower for EVs.

  • Sole traders face simpler rules but fewer planning options than limited companies.

  • Leasing can be simpler when there’s mixed business/personal use.

 

Looking ahead: November special meeting

Our November meeting will spotlight the Rewilding Project with John Richardson (Harborough District Council) and Ben Devine (Leicestershire Wildlife Trust).

Get involved

Build relationships with local businesses at our next meeting.
Interested in presenting on your area of expertise or sharing member updates? We’d love to hear from you.

Next Chamber Members Meeting

Wednesday 29 October 2025
Arrival: from 5:00pm | Meeting: 5:30–7:00pm
Venue: Market Harborough Building Society, Newcombe House, 16 The Point, Market Harborough, LE16 7QU

All guests are welcome.

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]]> Nominations for 2025 Community Awards are open… https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/nominations-for-2025-community-awards-are-open/ Tue, 01 Jul 2025 16:12:06 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6647 📣 The Community Awards 2025 are now open and we’re proud to share that the...

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]]> 📣 The Community Awards 2025 are now open and we’re proud to share that the Market Harborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce is sponsoring this year’s brand-new Business-Community Impact of the Year Award!

As Chamber members, you know better than most how vital strong business-community links are to the health and vibrancy of our district. This award will shine a spotlight on businesses that go the extra mile to make a real difference locally.

🏆 Award Categories Include:
🔹 Voluntary and Community Group of the Year
🔹 Young Person of the Year (11-18yrs)
🔹 Volunteer of the Year (19-59yrs)
🔹 Volunteer of the Year (60+yrs)
🔹 The Citizenship Cup
🔹 Stronger Together: Workplace Impact (NEW)
🔹 Business-Community Impact of the Year (NEW & Chamber Sponsored!)

💡 Know someone or a business that deserves to be recognised?

👉 Nominate them now and help us celebrate the people and organisations making a difference in the Harborough District.

🧑A judging panel made up of council officers and local organisations, including members of the MH Chamber of Trade and Commerce, will select the finalists.

🎉 The Awards Ceremony will take place in October 2025 in Lutterworth, attendance by invitation only.

🔗 Visit https://ow.ly/zweX50WhChO to find out how to nominate and recognise the brilliant individuals and businesses helping to make Harborough stronger, together.

📢 Want to know more about the Community Awards 2025? Find out how you can get involved, who’s eligible, and why these awards matter to our local area. Read the full story here: Nominations for 2025 Community Awards are open | Harborough District Council

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]]> East Midlands Chamber Business Awards https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/east-midland-chamber-business-awards/ Thu, 14 Nov 2024 18:57:24 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6581 An amazing night at the East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire) Business Awards! It was...

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An amazing night at the East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire) Business Awards! It was great to be there with the De Montfort University team.

Nick Darlow, was very proud to be there to represent the Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce, especially as we were a finalist for the Educational and Business Partnership Award, for our work in helping to make the Help to Grow: Management Course, even more accessible!

We didn’t win on this occasion unfortunately, there’s always next year!

We look forward to working with Bobby and the DMU Business development and regeneration team in 2025.

 

 

Congratulations must go to Loughborough University, who won the category on the night. Very well deserved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t forget. Our next Chamber Members Meeting – will be held on Wednesday 27th November 2024 and will be an early evening meeting, with arrival from 5:30pm, with the main meeting starting at 6pm through until 7:30pm. More information can be found here. Please RSVP to secretary@harboroughchamber.co.uk

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]]> September 2024 members’ meeting minutes summary https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/september-2024-members-meeting-minutes-summary/ Wed, 02 Oct 2024 18:39:30 +0000 https://harboroughchamber.co.uk/?p=6566 The September members’ meeting was held at Market Harborough Building Society’s new Head Office at...

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The September members’ meeting was held at Market Harborough Building Society’s new Head Office at The Point Business. This is part of a fantastic new partnership between the Chamber and the Building Society, more about which can be found here. They are also now a Patron member, which we are truly delighted with.

The theme of the meeting was Support to Business, with specific information on local grants, recruitment support as well as more specialist support from one of our other Patrons, De Montfort University.

 

Market Harborough Building Society

The MHBS shared welcomed the new partnership with the Chamber, and in confidence, also shared an important forthcoming announcement that will be very welcome for many Market Harborough businesses. More to follow when we are able to share with their permission, Businesses will hear more over the coming weeks from the Building Society, and we will ensure we update you as soon as we can.

 

Harborough District Council – UKSPF Go Grants

Harborough District Council has local grants designed to help businesses in the district prosper and grow. If you’re looking to start or take your business to the next level, this could be the perfect opportunity to get the support you need.

Eligible businesses can now apply for grants of up to £2,000 to support a project that will enhance their business. A total of £46,000 is available through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to assist businesses across three key themes, which are:

  1. Go Green– Reduce your carbon footprint, increase energy efficiency, and lower fixed costs.
  2. Go Digital– Implement digital technology solutions to improve performance and expand access to customers.
  3. Go Innovate– Develop new products or methods to increase efficiency and drive business growth.

Important Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for  any of the grants, businesses must first participate in the Leicestershire Business Advice Service (LBAS) programme and upload an LBAS Action Plan as part of their application. If you haven’t yet joined LBAS, you can start by visiting here.

How to Apply:

Applications are submitted via the Grant Approval website. If you already have an account, simply log in and select ‘Harborough’ as your local authority, then search for the appropriate Go Grant Scheme. If you are new to the system, you will need to register an account.

Before applying, please ensure you have the following documents ready:

  • Two quotes for the goods/services you intend to purchase with the grant (and your preferred supplier).
  • A bank statement that matches the bank details for grant payment.
  • Proof of trading.
  • Your LBAS Action Plan.

Grants are available on a first come, first served basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. The deadline for applications is Thursday, 31 October 2024, but funding may be allocated before then if all available funds are distributed.

Start your application today via www.grantapproval.co.uk

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch: business@harborough.gov.uk

 

Department for Work and Pensions (Jobcentre Plus) – Recruitment and other support for Businesses and Individuals

A summary of some of the support available was provided. This includes:

  • Recruitment Support, fully funded and available to local businesses
  • Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs). SWAPs offer jobseekers across England and Scotland a six-week training programme, where they learn new skills, gain hands-on work experience and build their contacts in a new line of work. Whether it’s from aviation to care, or finance to logistics, every SWAP participant is guaranteed an interview at the end of their course for a live job vacancy.
  • Support to businesses to set up work trials.  Also to support individuals to experience a workplace before deciding if it is a good fit for both parties. This can be particularly valuable for those returning to the workplace having has a break, such as to raise a family.
  • The Flexible Support Fund can support previously unemployed individuals with travel or other costs, to ensure for those without savings, a new job is not out of their reach. Support could include helping with travel or clothing/equipment costs prior to a new recruit’s first wages.

 

De Montfort University (DMU) – Training and Innovation support to local businesses

Bobby Chotai outlined some of the support available to businesses from DMU. These includes some well-known offers such as Degree Apprenticeships and Help to Grow Management. The latter being a course that DMU has successfully run locally to support local businesses, and that has been highly rated by business leaders in Market Harborough. Further information was supplied on Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, Cyber and Digital Security, Data Analysis and Processing.

DMU Offered a visit to their premises for Chamber members, and this opportunity will be shared over coming week.

 

Chamber Membership including Large Employers

A plea was put out by the President for members to help attract more members, including larger businesses. If the Chamber is to fulfil its remit in challenging business decision makers and regulators, it needs to increase its membership and especially from larger businesses locally.

 

Next Members Meeting – will be held on 30th October 2025 and will be an early evening meeting, with arrival from 5:30pm, with the main meeting starting at 6pm through until 7:30pm. More information can be found here.

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