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September 2025 members’ meeting minutes summary

Published on: Published in: News

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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