Brighton Technology Company Open Their Doors to University and Brighton Students

Brighton Technology Company Open Their Doors to University and Brighton Students

On 9th November, Paxton welcomed students to their state-of-the-art Paxton Technology Centre to showcase what’s on offer from the 2019 Paxton Scholarship programme. Over 140 enthusiastic students attended the scholarship open day, where they discussed the Paxton’s latest products with Paxton's technology experts in engineering, research and product design. The students enjoyed hands-on product demonstrations and discovered their potential career opportunities with the company.

Samson Mwita, student at University of Sussex, said: “I think it’s great that Paxton are offering students this opportunity and guidance with their studying. It seems like a fun exciting company to work for and hearing about the company’s journey directly from the CEO was really inspiring.”

Paxton, who design and manufacture security systems, launched the Paxton Scholarship in 2017. They now offer students studying engineering and product design related courses, the opportunity to win one of four scholarship places each worth £10,000, plus a 3-month paid work placement from July 2019. As part of the scholarship, they will participate in current technology research projects at Paxton, that will form the final year project of their degree course.

2018 Paxton scholar Laurence Budd, BSc Computer Science student at University of Brighton, said: “I am working on an idea for a new internal app and I’ll be testing some CCTV cameras too. I can happily say I’m thrilled to be working here at Paxton and I’m loving working on the projects I’ve been given.”

Commenting on the open day, Adam Stroud, Paxton’s Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted that Paxton has been able to attract so many students to our open day. All our visitors were able to see first-hand some of the technologies we use, and chat with staff about what it’s like having a career at Paxton.

“Our partnerships with both University of Brighton and Sussex are going from strength to strength. The Paxton Scholarship is an initiative that we intend to build on each year. This year, we have four scholarship places to award and I can already tell that it’s, once again, going to be a difficult decision.”

George Livas, student at University of Brighton, said: “The scholarship open day was fantastic. The facilities at Paxton are amazing and all of the staff were lovely and polite. I really enjoyed the presentation from the CEO and talking to the product developers.

For further information about the company and the variety of job opportunities Paxton are recruiting for, please visit http://paxton.info/3690

UK faces employability skills gap as nearly 54% of adults in the South East lack the full set of core transferable skills

UK faces employability skills gap as nearly 54% of adults in the South East lack the full set of core transferable skills

·         54 per cent of adults in the South East failed to demonstrate all the core employability skills needed for the future world of work: proactivity, adaptability, leadership, creativity, resilience, communication and problem solving

·         A third of employers aren’t planning to offer training in these skills in the near future, meaning people will need to take control of their own lifelong learning

·         To help address the problem, Barclays will be extending its LifeSkills programme to the whole of the UK workforce, aiming to help 10 million people by the end of 2022

The South East is facing a significant skills gap as the public fail to demonstrate core employability skills, such as leadership and creativity, a major new study from Barclays LifeSkills can reveal.

The report, “How employable is the UK?”, which surveyed and tested over 10,000 16-65 year olds, 600 employers and 500 educators from across the UK, found that more than half (57 per cent) of over 16s are failing to demonstrate all the employability skills needed to succeed in the future workplace. In the South East this figure falls to 54 per cent, 3 per cent lower than the UK average.

These skills are crucial in preparing the UK for a world of work where, due to the speed of change, we are unable to accurately predict what the jobs of the future will look like and what technical skills will be needed. The seven employability skills are what humans are best at – they cannot be replicated by robots and will become even more valuable in the future, as global patterns of work change and automation, freelance working patterns and the average working age all increase.

The study showed that traditional sources of these skills, like in-work training and formal education, are not currently set-up to tackle the employability skills gap. Despite the majority (79 per cent) of UK employers rating the skills as important to their industry in the next ten years, a third (34 per cent) do not plan to offer any training in the near future. Research among teachers from across the UK revealed that 22 per cent don’t think their institution is effective in developing employability skills for pupils, with just 6 per cent feeling that their students are fully prepared with these skills when leaving the school gates.

The report highlights that, if we are to be successful in addressing this employability skills gap, educators, businesses and the Government must work more closely together. There is a clear need to raise awareness of the importance of these skills and increase the support available to people of all ages – ultimately helping the UK to thrive in the working world of tomorrow.

PEOPLE IN THE SOUTH EAST OVER CONFIDENT IN THEIR SKILLS

Respondents from the South East showed that they were over confident across the seven employability skills. 18 per cent of people in the South East had a confidence gap, with a mismatch between their high self-assessed skill levels and the reality of their test results. In comparison, 24 per cent of Londoners had a confidence gap, the highest skills confidence gap of any region.

GENERATION GAPS

The research findings showed Millennials as the lowest performing age group, with just 4 in 10 (39 per cent) of 25-34 year olds able to display all of the core skills. This generation risks being overtaken in the increasingly competitive employment landscape by the younger Gen Z (16-24 year olds), a slightly greater proportion of whom (41 per cent) can demonstrate all seven key skills, despite only just having entered the workforce. Across younger respondents however, the study found high levels of over confidence when matching actual abilities to how they rated themselves, showing the need for ongoing support in building skills.

In comparison, almost half (47 per cent) of Baby Boomers (51-65 year olds) had the full range of employability skills but rated far lower in their self-confidence, meaning those who are working later into life may need support in using their strong skillsets to their full advantage.

GENDER DIFFERENCES

For every skill, women outperformed men, with 46 per cent of women able to demonstrate they had all seven skills, compared to just 39 per cent of men. Despite this gap, men were much more likely than women to be highly confident in their own skills, particularly when it came to adaptability (19 per cent of men compared to 14 per cent of women).

Ashok Vaswani, CEO of Barclays UK, said: “Today’s findings show the importance of lifelong learning, whatever your age or chosen career path. I firmly believe that education should not stop at the school gates – businesses, educators and the Government all have a role to play.

“We need to work together to agree a core set of transferable employability skills, giving people of all ages the tools needed to upskill and ultimately creating a competitive workforce that will support the UK economy.

“That is why Barclays is backing the UK by announcing the expansion of our LifeSkills programme to all ages – by the end of 2022 we’re committing to helping 10 million adults build the employability skills they need to succeed in the future workplace.”

Does your business care for the carers?

Does your business care for the carers? How you can support your staff carers.

Supporting your staff carers will reduce sick leave, improve morale and increase staff

retention.

Becoming a more carer friendly employer can be as simple as displaying a Carers

Hub poster, encouraging a conversation about caring or acknowledging a staff

member needs 10 minutes quiet time to call their cared-for.

Contact us for a chat, free training, free resources and free EFC membership, so we

can help you support your staff.

For more information, contact:

Charly Snell, charlotte.snell@thecarerscentre.org / 01273 746222

Gatwick Announce Public Exhibitions on Development Plans

Gatwick Airport has launched its draft master plan for consultation (https://www.gatwickairport.com/business-community/growing-gatwick/long-term-plans/). The draft master plan sets out proposals for the airport’s ongoing development and sustainable growth. It explains how Gatwick Airport can meet the increasing demand for air travel and provide Britain with enhanced global connectivity. This draft master plan is also a direct response to the Government’s recent call for UK airports to look at ‘making best use of their existing runways’ and how Gatwick could grow across three scenarios for runway development.

Gatwick Airport are keen to hear the views of local communities, partners and stakeholders. A 12-week public consultation is now live and includes six public exhibitions in the local area, which will help inform the publication of the final master plan early next year. Consultation closes at 5pm on 10 January 2019 and can be completed online by following this link.

Public exhibitions will also be held at the following dates and locations:

HORSHAM

Date: Saturday 3 November

Time: 15:30-19:30

Location: The Barn, Causeway, Horsham, RH12 1HE

CROYDON

Date: Thursday 8 November

Time: 15:30-19:30

Location: Centrale Shopping Centre, Croydon, CR0 1TY

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Date: Saturday 10 November

Time: 11:00-17:00

Location: Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2SS

BRIGHTON

Date: Monday 12 November

Time: 14:30-18:30

Location: Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Western Road, Brighton, BN1 2RG

CRAWLEY

Date: Saturday 17 November

Time: 11:00-17:00

Location: County Mall Shopping Centre, Crawley, RH10 1FG

HORLEY

Date: Saturday 24 November

Time: 15:30-19:30

Location: Horley Leisure Centre, Anderson Way, Horley RH6 8SP

Brighton & Hove economy stable post Brexit says latest UK Powerhouse report

Brighton & Hove economy stable post Brexit says latest UK Powerhouse report

The latest report from thinktank UK Powerhouse takes a unique look across the UK, analysing closely the nuances and varying impacts of Brexit across the UK’s diverse regions - as well as the opportunities available to them as they adapt.

Brighton and Hove currently sits at 12 in the UK rankings for growth, beating Manchester, Edinburgh and even London. Post Brexit, the report outlines some big winners and losers, but Brighton & Hove remains unchanged and still comfortably in the top 20. To find our more, click here.

Key Findings

• In Q2 2019, Cambridge will top the Powerhouse table for GVA growth.

• Farming and agribusiness in the UK will lose significant subsidies from the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, with particular impact in the South of England, Northern Ireland and Wales.

• Foreign Direct Investment to the UK may be reduced in the short term.

• The services sector can adapt to Brexit quickly, if it makes use of its global links outside of the EU.

• After Brexit, Manchester and Leeds will provide opportunities for growth in the knowledge-intensive business services sector.

• In the event of an even more devalued pound, cities such as London could see more visits from tourists.

Local Data Company Publish Quarterly Report on UK Store Closures

Local Data Company Publish Quarterly Report on UK Store Closures

The latest report from LDC highlights some shocking figures, laying bare the current state of play in the uk retail and leisure sectors. The report includes insight on:

• Analysis on structural changes made to retail stock in H1 2018.

• Data on vacancy rate changes split by region and retail location type.

• Openings and closures trend data across retail categories and business type (multiple or independent).

• A review of changes in LDC Health Index Scores.

• A review of the fastest growing retailers and international brands opening stores in the UK.

• A review of M&A activity and a look at the brands who have made strategic partnerships in order to compete in today's challenging market.

• Commentary from some of the UK's top brands.

Click here to download your copy of the report.

VOTING NOW OPEN FOR SUSSEX FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS 2019

VOTING NOW OPEN FOR SUSSEX FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS 2019

Food and drink lovers across the county will be voting in their thousands over the next two months to ensure their favourite food and drink heroes have their chance to reach the grand finals in this year’s Sussex Food and Drink Awards.

The top ten finalists were announced this week for Sussex Food Producer of the Year sponsored by Southern Co-op; Sussex Farmers Market of the Year sponsored by Harvey’s Brewery; Sussex Butcher of the Year sponsored by RP Meats Wholesale Ltd; Sussex Food Shop of the Year sponsored by Sussex Food & Drink Network; Sussex Drink Producer of the Year sponsored by Natural PR; and Sussex Eating Experience of the Year sponsored by Natural Partnerships CIC.

Sussex is blessed with a wealth of amazing food and drink producers and over the last 13 years the Sussex Food and Drink Awards have helped enormously to support and boost local farmers, food and drink producers and the outlets that use and sell this superb local fare.

A record 15,000 votes were received for the Sussex Food and Drink Awards last year and the expert judging panel, chaired by local dairy farmer and Nuffield Scholar, William Goodwin, is hoping that even more people will vote for their favourite to win at www.sussexfoodawards.biz by 17 January 2019.

Said William Goodwin, “We are delighted to see that the quality in this competition remains consistently high with yet another impressive line up of finalists this year.  The festive season is the perfect time of year for everyone to get out and about and sample the wonderful products from these amazing Sussex food and drink businesses and to vote for their favourites to win.  The public vote is a vital part of the judging process in these unique awards.  It only takes a minute or two and can really make all the difference.” 

Entries remain open until 17 January 2019 for Young Sussex Farmer of the Year category, sponsored by the South of England Agricultural Society in association with Farmers Weekly, as well as Sussex Newcomer of the Year, sponsored by SRC-Time and Sussex Young Chef of the Year, sponsored by Blakes Foods. 

As well as earning the huge respect and recognition that these awards now carry, Grand Finalists from all ten categories will be invited to attend a BAFTA-style ceremony on 15 May 2019 at the Amex Stadium in Brighton, where the winners will be revealed and 400 guests will enjoy a seven-course Sussex produce banquet, hosted by awards patron Sally Gunnell OBE and Danny Pike from BBC Sussex. 

For more information and to vote for your favourites visit www.sussexfoodawards.biz

Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2019 Finalists:

Sussex Food Producer of the Year, sponsored by Southern Co-op

Alsop & Walker, Five Ashes, East Sussex

Beal’s Farm Charcuterie, North Chailey, East Sussex

Goodwood Home Farm, Goodwood, West Sussex

Jengers Craft Bakery, Billingshurst, West Sussex

Lorama Foods, Chichester, West Sussex

Noble and Stace Chocolatiers, Easebourne, West Sussex

Real Patisserie, Brighton & Hove

Sussex Ice Cream Company, Littlehampton, West Sussex

Perfectly Preserved, Worthing, West Sussex

Weald Smokery, Flimwell, East Sussex

Sussex Drink Producer of the Year, sponsored by Natural PR

Bedlam Brewery, Plumpton Green, East Sussex

Bignose & Beardy, Framfield, East Sussex

Bolney Wine Estate, Bolney, West Sussex

Brighton Gin, Brighton & Hove

Dark Star Brewing Company, Partridge Green, West Sussex

Hepworth & Co Brewers Ltd, Pulborough, West Sussex

Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex

Ridgeview Estate Winery, Ditchling Common, East Sussex

Tom Cat Spirits, Crowborough, East Sussex

Wobblegate, Bolney, West Sussex

Sussex Food Shop of the Year, sponsored by Sussex Food and Drink Network

Cowdray Farm Shop, Easebourne, West Sussex

Crates Local Produce, Horsham, West Sussex

Eggs to Apples, Hurst Green, East Sussex

Jeremy’s Two, Cowfold, West Sussex

Lodsworth Larder, Lodsworth, West Sussex

Milland Village Stores and Cafe, Milland, West Sussex

New House Farm Shop, Horsham, West Sussex

Perryhill Orchards Farm Shop, Hartfield, East Sussex

Stansted Park Farm Shop, Stansted Park, West Sussex

The Fresh Fish Shop, Haywards Heath, West Sussex

Sussex Butcher of the Year, sponsored by RP Meats Wholesale Ltd

A C Coughtrey Butchers, Pulborough, West Sussex

Archers of Westfield, Westfield, East Sussex

Barfields Butchers, Brighton & Hove

Cottenhams of Lindfield, Lindfield, West Sussex

Garlic Wood Farm (online), Shipley, West Sussex

Goodwood Home Farm, Goodwood, West Sussex

May’s Farmers and Butchers, Lewes, East Sussex

Michael Courtney Butchers, Midhurst, West Sussex

S K Hutchings Family Butchers and Graziers, Partridge Green, West Sussex

The Butcher and Deli, Rustington, West Sussex

Sussex Farmers Market of the Year, sponsored by Harvey’s Brewery

Chichester Farmers Market, West Sussex

Florence Road Market, Brighton & Hove

Forest Row Village Market, East Sussex

Lewes Farmers Market, Cliffe Precinct, East Sussex

Pulborough Farmers Market, West Sussex

Shoreham Farmers Market, West Sussex

Steyning Farmers Market, West Sussex

Sussex Eating Experience of the Year, sponsored by Natural Partnerships CIC

etch., Brighton & Hove

Farmer, Butcher, Chef, Goodwood, West Sussex

Rathfinny Tasting Room, Alfriston, East Sussex

The Crabtree, Lower Beeding, West Sussex

The Dining Room, Worthing, West Sussex

The Earl of March, Lavant, West Sussex

The Milk Churn, Rudgwick, West Sussex

The Parsons Table, Arundel, West Sussex

The Richmond Arms, West Ashling, West Sussex

Wingrove House, Alfriston, East Sussex

Government launches support for businesses to hire more apprentices

Government launches support for businesses to hire more apprentices

You may be surprised to know that of the 101,860 unique employer apprenticeship starts in 2016/17, 77% were small employers with less than 49 staff.  

4 in 5 businesses employing an apprentice would recommend it to others too, so if you want to find out how you can grow your business through apprenticeships and support the hire an apprentice campaign, complete this form or contact the National Careers Service on 08000 150 600.

Burning the Clocks launches Crowdfunder for 2018

Burning the Clocks launches Crowdfunder for 2018

Brighton charity, Same Sky, invites local support to keep the much-loved winter solstice event running

www.facebook.com/burningtheclocks/

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/burning-the-clocks-2018

Brighton charity Same Sky this week launches its crowdfunder for Burning the Clocks 2018, offering exclusive gifts in order to raise £5,000 and help secure the future of Burning the Clocks.

Taking place from 6.30pm on Friday 21 December 2018, the Burning the Clocks parade runs from New Road to the seafront, with around 2,000 participants and more than 20,000 onlookers.  

Depending on the size of their donation, crowdfunding investors will be rewarded with personalised lanterns, the privilege of lighting the event’s bonfire or a 3-course dinner for two at The Ivy in the Lanes.

For the third successive year, ARKA Original Funerals will support Burning the Clocks with ‘In Memory’ lanterns for those who have lost a loved one during the year. These packages, each worth £100, include a lantern workshop invitation, joining the parade and the reading of the chosen loved one’s name during the fireshow finale.

Local restaurant, The Chilli Pickle, is sponsoring the event, adding a donation of £1 to every table bill from 1 November until 21 December, which will go towards helping Same Sky reach their fundraising target for this year’s Burning the Clocks. Same Sky will also be partnering with childhood bereavement charity, Winston’s Wish, offering local young people a lantern-making workshop, so that they can join the parade and remember their loved ones in this special way.

Burning the Clocks receives no guaranteed funding and relies on fundraising and support from local business and the community to raise the costs needed to cover the event, which is in excess of £30,000. Anyone watching the parade is encouraged to put any spare cash into the donation buckets on the night to help fund the event and secure its future.

John Varah, Same Sky artistic director, said: “We’re bringing our crowdfunding initiative back for the sixth consecutive year, as it goes such a long way to keeping Burning the Clocks alive.

“Each year Same Sky relies on the generosity of the general public to make donations along the event route, as well as supporting our online crowdfunder. Our Winter Solstice parade has been an iconic part of Brighton’s calendar for more than two decades, but we rely on the support of local residents and sponsors to make it happen.

“We’ve had a bit of a turbulent year, having lost Same Sky’s home, our artistic studio – but this has made us even more determined to ensure the event remains a part of the city’s winter offering.”

The theme for Burning the Clocks 2018 is ‘Remembrance’. Event organisers Same Sky have created a large-scale lantern in the shape of a heart for this year’s event. This will be surrounded by smaller Remembrance hearts carried by procession-goers on the night of the parade.

As in previous years, Brighton residents can purchase lantern packs to take part in the parade (costing £30-£33, available from early November). Lantern packs contain materials, instructions and four wristbands for four people to take part in the parade. They will be available for purchase at Brighton Pavilion, HISBE supermarket in York Place, the Wood Store on Elder Place and Book Nook in Hove.

Local artist Graham Carter has generously created a new limited edition print for Burning the Clocks for the sixth year running. These are also on sale to raise funds, with 80 limited edition designs created around this year’s theme of ‘Remembrance’.

For more information on purchasing lantern packs and Graham Carter’s prints, visit Same Sky’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/SameSkyBtn/. Businesses and restaurants interested in getting involved with the event as a sponsor or participant should contact jasmine@samesky.co.uk.

Coast to Capital is Recruiting Senior Business Leaders to Help Deliver its Gatwick 360 Strategy

Coast to Capital is recruiting a new Board Director to bring further business sector skills and expertise onto its Board in order to help deliver its ambitious new strategy – Gatwick 360. It is also seeking to appoint members to its newly formed Skills 360 Board.

The Coast to Capital Board is comprised of a strong and passionate group of individuals bringing together regional business leaders alongside senior politicians and leaders from Universities and Further Education. It is a powerful voice of challenge and advocacy for the region and brings together a wealth of experience and expertise. There is a vacancy for a Board Director to bring specific finance skills and commercial expertise into the organisation, promoting a strong business ethos and commercial culture on the Board.

The Skills 360˚ Board has been set up to provide strategic direction and deliver the ‘Create Skills for the Future’ priority actions included in Gatwick 360 to boost the productivity of our economy by giving people the skills they need to secure and maintain high quality jobs. Members of the Skills 360 Board will identify the major skills and recruitment challenges faced by the region and identify solutions, including investment to deliver high quality skills education and training. There are vacancies for seven business sector representatives

Coast to Capital is committed to creating an inclusive organisation that promotes and values diversity. Applications are welcome from senior business figures from under-represented groups and female business leaders are encouraged to apply. We are looking for senior candidates and these roles would appeal to experienced leaders who can help to maximise the region’s potential and offer an exciting opportunity to someone who is committed to creating an environment where business can flourish.

The posts are unremunerated and applicants are expected to live and/or work in the region.

Tim Wates, Coast to Capital Chairman said:

“This is a very exciting time to join the Coast to Capital Board and we are looking for business leaders who are passionate about helping lead the region forward. The Government has confirmed that LEPs will play an important role in delivering the new Industrial Strategy and in driving economic growth in their local areas. Our ambitious new Strategic Economic Plan – Gatwick 360 - prioritises the most important issues facing our region, including skills, and as such, it is vital that we are led by senior business figures with the skills and expertise we need to meet the challenges and opportunities the future will bring.”

To make an application for the Board Director vacancy please send, by Monday 26 November, a full CV with a covering statement setting out how you believe you could fulfil the requirements of the key role to Katie Nurcombe, Head of Communications & Corporate Affairs at katie.nurcombe@coast2capital.org.uk.

For further information about the Skills 360 Board and how to apply please visit the Coast to Capital website or contact Claire Witz at claire.witz@coast2capital.org.uk. The deadline for applications is Monday 26.

Brighton & Hove ranked in top ten most healthy high streets in UK

RSPH has published a league table ranking 70 of Britain’s major towns and cities by the impact of their high streets on the public’s health and wellbeing.

The rankings, based on the prevalence of different types of businesses found in the towns’ main retail areas, see Grimsby rated as having the unhealthiest high street, with Edinburgh coming out as the healthiest. This ranking excludes London high streets, which have been ranked separately. See full top and bottom 10 below.

The league table features in the new RSPH report, Health on the High Street: Running on empty, which follows on from the announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer of a package of measures designed to reinvigorate the nation’s High Streets. This is a follow up report to the original RSPH Health on the High Street published in 2015, and assesses changes in British retail areas over the past three years.

The report updates the methodology used in 2015, to reflect the changing face of the British high street, adding off-licences and empty shops to the negative influences on health, and cafes and vape shops to the positive influences.

The top 10 “unhealthiest” British high streets were ranked as:

Grimsby

Walsall

Blackpool

Stoke-On-Trent

Sunderland

Northampton

Bolton

Wolverhampton

Huddersfield

Bradford

The top 10 “healthiest” British high streets were ranked as:

Edinburgh

Canterbury

Taunton

Shrewsbury

Cheltenham

York

Brighton & Hove

Eastbourne

Exeter

Cambridge

Average life expectancy for people living in areas with the top 10 healthiest high streets is two and a half years longer than for those in the 10 unhealthiest ranked areas.

Changes to British high streets that have influenced the rankings include:

A growth in the number of fast food shops by 4,000 between 2014 and 2017, especially in the most deprived areas, which now have five times more fast food shops than the most affluent areas;

The number of vape shops has doubled from 1,000 to 2,000 in the past three years;

The high street vacancy rate has increased from below 7% in 2007 to 11% in 2017.

RSPH is now calling for a range of measures to make British high streets more health-promoting, including:

The Treasury to review how businesses taxes are determined to ensure high street shops are not put at an unfair disadvantage compared to online retailers; RSPH polling suggests this is a measure which has widespread public backing with three quarters (75%) believing that business rates should not put high street retailers at an unfair advantage compared to online.

Facebook and Google to provide discounted advertising opportunities to independent health-promoting businesses.

Local authorities to make records on vacant commercial properties publicly accessible, supporting ‘meanwhile use’ of vacant shops to keep high streets vibrant.

All vape shops to ensure all customers who smoke are aware of their local stop smoking service.

Gavin Stewart, CEO of the Brighton City Centre Business Improvement District said, “This is a great recognition for the work we do every day to make Brighton city centre a better pace to live, work in and visit. The city has largely bucked the national trend in retail vacancy rates since the financial crisis in 2008 and our vibrant independent retail and leisure sector is second to none in the UK. We will continue to support our local business base to ensure that Brighton & Hove remains one of the top places to invest in the country; helping to create a distinctive, sustainable and now healthy city for years to come.”

Independent watchdog Transport Focus want to hear your views on the Brighton mainline improvement works

As the rail Brighton Main Line rail closures continue on, Transport Focus is keen to hear from users and partners on how they are doing. To get involved, click on this link which will take you to their short questionnaire. https://brightonmainlinesurvey.online-host.solutions/ASP/P012082/5.asp

Over the past two weeks the following improvements have been delivered:

• Haywards Heath Station – installation of conductor rail along the Ouse Valley area and signal changes completed

• Haywards Heath to Keymer Junction – signal head changes and signalling installation

• Keymer Junction to Plumpton – signal head changes completed

• Clayton Tunnel – track renewal 

• Patcham to Preston Park – signalling installation

• Streat Green  (Plumpton Racecourse) – Underbridge renewed

• Three Bridges to Balcombe Tunnel Junction – signal head changes

• Lewes to Newhaven – pre-testing ahead of the major work

• Cooksbridge – re-railing completed. 

To take part, please fill in this short survey by clicking on the link:
https://brightonmainlinesurvey.online-host.solutions/ASP/P012082/5.asp

Please remember the November weekend line closures on Saturday, 03 November, Saturday, 10 November and Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 November. 
 
See BrightonMainLine.co.uk for the latest news on the project and full calendar of closures.

Coast to Capital Seek Skills 360˚ Board Members

Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership is recruiting Senior Business Leaders to become members of the newly formed Skills 360˚ Board.

The purpose of the Skills 360˚ Board is to provide direction and strategic support for the delivery of our ambitious Strategic Economic Plan, Gatwick 360˚, specifically the actions within Priority 4: Create Skills for the Future, where we seek to boost the productivity of our economy by giving people the skills they need to secure and maintain high quality jobs.

Being a member of the Skills 360˚ Board offers the opportunity to influence the way in which we create skills for the future in the Coast to Capital area. We are at a time of significant change in the UK as we move towards our exit of the European Union. This along with an ageing population and rapid advances in technology mean the skills debate is urgent and requires an innovative approach more so than ever before.

Your membership of the Skills 360˚ Board will involve you in policy and decision making at a regional level, helping to shape our negotiation of a Local Industrial Strategy with Government. You will support us to identify the major skills and recruitment challenges we currently face and to be a part of the solution. Your networks and influence will bring us the recognition and investment we need to deliver high quality skills education and training in the Coast to Capital area.

The Skills 360˚ Board will be made up of predominantly business sector representatives, the Chief Executive Officer of Coast to Capital and two representatives from the education sector.

We are therefore looking to recruit seven senior leaders, CEOs, Chairs, Directors or owner managers to represent the views and interests of private businesses, to support understanding of the skills needs of businesses and to identify where investment is needed.

We would particularly welcome applications from scaling businesses that are typically those exhibiting 20% year on year growth in either turnover or job creation. Coast to Capital is committed to creating an inclusive organisation that promotes and values diversity. Applications are welcome from senior business figures from under-represented groups and female business leaders are encouraged to apply. We are looking for senior candidates and these roles would appeal to experienced leaders who can help to maximise the region’s potential and offer an exciting opportunity to someone who is committed to creating an environment where business can flourish.

We are grateful for the support and expertise of Nick Juba, CEO of Greater Brighton Metropolitan College and Coast to Capital Board member, in establishing the Skills 360˚ Board.

Further information on how to apply to become a board member can be found on the Coast to Capital website.

Gatwick Airport Masterplan Consultation Launched

Gatwick Airport Ltd has recently launched a new Draft Master Plan to support growth of the Airport across the next 5 years and then rolling out to 15 years.

The Draft Plan sets out three growth scenarios and includes detail on how it will address infrastructure, the economy, the environment and the passenger experience.

The three scenarios are:

1. Utilising the single runway, growing through use of technology, larger aircraft and more intensive operations

2. Utilising the existing standby runway within the existing land footprint

3. Continuing to safeguard land for an additional wide space runway, if Government Policy requires it

The Consultation on the Draft Plan will run until the 10th January 2019 with an online form to complete.  This 12-page Summary of the Draft Master Plan summarises the key elements.

Tech Nation Rising Stars applications close in less than two weeks

There are just under two weeks to apply for Rising Stars, the UK’s newest and most exciting pitch competition. 

Designed with ambitious tech entrepreneurs in mind, Rising Stars is on a mission to find the UK’s most promising early-stage start-ups and take them to the next level. This your opportunity to connect your start-up with mentors, investors and influencers, and significantly raise the profile of your business.

 APPLY NOW > or for more information, click here.

 (Applications close at midnight on 4 November 2018)

The prize package

The carefully crafted prize package is designed to amplify your early-stage startup. Winners will benefit from:

• 1-2-1 mentoring with a high profile mentor

• Facilitated introductions to investors and corporates

• Bespoke PR campaign

• 1-2-1 BDODrive Accelerate session focused on unlocking your growth potential and identifying the tangible steps you need to take

• Financial contribution towards a conference of your choice

• Pitch training and coaching

• Networking opportunities with investors, heads of accelerators, entrepreneurs and corporate leaders

Who are they looking for?

• Your tech business must have been going 1-3 years

• UK HQ

• Seed to pre-Series A funding stage

• At least one active client or pilot

Most importantly, they are looking for exciting companies that have the desire and ambition to scale their business.

Consultation announced on ‘transformational’ plan to remove Britain’s worst railway bottleneck and provide a step-change in reliability

People across the south east of England will be able to have their say on proposals for a major railway upgrade to improve punctuality, speed up journey times and enable more trains to run on one of the country’s busiest main lines.

To find out more about the proposals, and to respond, click here.

Valley Gardens phase 3 Consultation now open

Now that construction of the first two phases, from St Peter’s Church to Edward Street, is underway.  The city council is now developing a design option for the third phase, covering the area around the Old Steine down to the Palace Pier roundabout. The consultation is now open, to Take part in the consultation Use the online consultation portal.

The consultation is open until 25 November 2018

Valley Gardens Phase 3 Q&A’s

Taxis

What routes will taxis be able to take?

Taxis will have access to the proposed bus lane to the south west of the Old Steine. Therefore, they will be able to access North Street and St James’s Street as they do at present. They will also be able to use this area to turn.

What will the impact on journey times be?

Impacts on general traffic journey times are expected to be limited. Traffic flow was a consideration in the selection of the current proposal. Traffic modelling showed that it operated the best of all the design options that were shortlisted.

Will the taxi rank remain?

Potentially some of the parking spaces could be allocated for use by taxis as is the case at the moment.

The area may become subject to a red route as per Phase 1&2 – to  be determined and finalised at the detailed design stage and all changes to parking and loading restrictions will be subject to a separate public consultation.

How will the project be funded?

The majority (£6m) of the cost would be funded by a central government pot of money called the LGF (Local Growth Fund). The council needs to successfully bid for this funding through the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership specifically for a transport project.

The remainder of the funding (£1.25m) would come from the council’s Local Transport Plan budget and local contributions.

The award of this funding will be subject to the outcome of the public consultation and the council preparing a successful business case.

If the local community and the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership do not support the project overall then the money is likely to be awarded to another area of the region and the project will not go ahead.

Walking

How will walking routes be improved?

The proposals provide more direct walking routes to and from the seafront, The Lanes and St James’s Street. Crossings will also be better aligned to make it easier and quicker for pedestrians to cross.

What crossings will be installed?

New signalised crossings will be installed at St James’s Street and the seafront. These are designed to be more direct than at present and also provide crossings on all sides of the junctions.

The closure of the north western section of the Old Steine would mean traffic signals are no longer required at the Castle Square (North Street) junction.

Will a level surface be provided?

The main carriageways and main sections of cycling tracks will be separated from pedestrian areas by a kerb. All crossing points will have dropped kerbs and tactile paving.

Public and Green Space

How much new public space will be created?

Approximately 8,800 m2 of new public space will be created. Much of this will be in the area between the Royal Pavilion and the war memorial; however, new spaces will be created throughout, including next to the Royal Albion hotel and Brighton Palace Pier.

What will the new public space be used for?

The spaces will provide more opportunities for people to gather, sit and spend time, particularly in areas congested with pedestrians and visitors at the moment, such as next to the pier.

The new spaces will also provide further opportunities for events to take place.

Will events still be able to take place?

Yes. It is also anticipated that the proposals will improve the area for existing events and make it easier for people to reach them.

What will happen to Steine Gardens and the War Memorial?

The proposals currently include no changes to the existing green spaces. If the project progresses then plans for new planting in the Steine gardens may be considered and additional areas of green space may be delivered in the new areas of public space proposed.

Will any trees need to be cut down?

The plans do not require trees to be removed. In addition, there will be opportunities to plant up to 30 new trees throughout the Old Steine area.

Cycling

What will the proposals provide for cyclists?

The proposals include a two-way cycle lane between Marlborough Place and the seafront. This is designed to close the missing link in the cycle network and provide a safer and more inviting environment for people to cycle in.

Will the seafront cycle route be improved?

No changes are planned to the east and west of the scheme area. However, it is anticipated that the creation of additional public space next to the pier will reduce congestion in this location.

How much cycle parking will be provided?

The number of cycle stands will be confirmed at the detailed design stages. However, the design provides significant opportunities to provide additional public cycle parking where this is needed.

Will new Bike Share stands be provided?

There are no plans for additional Bike Share hubs at this stage. However, there will be space to add additional stands to the existing hub and the council will work with the operator to ensure sufficient capacity is provided in this location.

Buses

Will the bus routes change?

All existing bus routes will continue to be able to use the Old Steine as they do at present. The only change will be that northbound buses will run to the east of the war memorial rather than the west.

Where will I catch my bus?

Bus stops will be provided in similar locations to where they are at the moment.

The current stop H (east of the war memorial) will be removed with westbound buses instead stopping to the south on St James’s Street or in Castle Square (North Street).

Buses stopping adjacent to the Royal Pavilion will instead stop in Castle Square.

Why are you reducing the number of bus stops?

More space than required is currently dedicated to bus stops or bus layover areas. We have identified opportunities to consolidate some of these so services are not split across so many stops.

What will the impact on bus journey times be?

Traffic modelling has indicated that there will not be an overall adverse impact on bus journey times or significant impact on individual routes.

What facilities will be provided at the bus stops?

As a minimum, bus stops will have accessible kerbs and it is anticipated that the majority will have shelters and real time information.

What will happen to the old bus shelters next to the Royal Pavilion?

These shelters are listed and will be retained. We are asking people what they would like to see done with them as part of the public consultation. Any future proposals will be subject to further consultation and planning consent.

What will happen to Pool Valley coach station?

The entrance to the coach station will remain where it is and National Express coaches will be able to access it as they do at present.

Cars

Where will general traffic go?

Traffic will continue to be able to travel north and south along the A23 as it does at the moment. However, the main difference is that general traffic will be in a dual-carriageway on the eastern side of the Old Steine rather than in the current gyratory system.

How will I access Madeira Drive?

It is proposed that Madeira Drive will be made one-way entry only. Vehicles will be able to exit via Dukes Mound.

Will I still be able to access my private parking space?

An access road will be retained on the south west side of the Old Steine meaning that all existing private car parks will continue to be accessible. Vehicle access to properties will retained where a legal access is provided at present.

How much public car parking will be provided?

The proposals will reduce the current number of car parking spaces from 49 to approximately 30. The final number of spaces will be determined at the detailed design stage. It is intended that sufficient parking for residents will be retained where this is provided at present.

Will disabled parking and doctors’ parking be retained?

Yes. It is intended to at least retain the specially designated bays that are available at present. The final designation of parking bays, including whether any additional disabled parking is added, will be determined at the detailed design stage. The design will be enhanced to ensure that accessible parking bays are provided.

The final parking restrictions would then be subject to a separate public consultation as part of the Traffic Regulation Order process.

Motorcycles

Will the proposals be an improvement for motorcyclists?

The designs are intended to address some of the common causes of collisions, particularly at the pier roundabout which will be replaced by a signalised junction.

Will motorcycle parking be retained?

Yes, motorcycle parking will be provided. The final location of this will be determined at the detailed design stage.

FREE EXHIBITION SPACE TO CELEBRATE SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY 2018

The Small Business Saturday Bus Tour is returning again to Brighton on Thursday 22nd November 2018 to support and promote small businesses as part of the national campaign. The bus will be located in Ship Street in front of the Ivy between 10am – 2pm.

Following from the success of last year’s event  same as last year, there are 20 exhibition spaces available to businesses to use to promote themselves. Anyone who is interested in taking a pitch should register on the Small Business Saturday UK website and create a My Small Business account then pre book via the Bus Tour section (see attached press release for website link) and they will send you details.

There is also a free mentoring programme available to small businesses, however these must be pre booked, again via the Bus Tour section of the My Small Business Account.

The

Small Business Saturday UK, the nationwide campaign to support and promote the UK’s 5.7 million small businesses, has announced it will tour the country to spotlight and support the nation’s top growth businesses.

Now in its sixth year, the Small Business Saturday campaign bus will travel over 3000 miles across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, visiting 30 locations over 25 days.

Launching on Thursday 25 October in Blackburn, the Small Business Saturday UK campaign team will pull into towns across the country, offering free mentoring sessions to small businesses, including mentors from bus tour supporter Xero's network of small business accountants, plus many more.

Up to 20 small businesses per stop can apply to be a ‘Business On Board’. They will be given space to exhibit their business to the passing public and will be profiled across the campaign’s social media channels. Forty lucky small businesses will also win the chance to have their logo featured on the Small Business Saturday bus, via a social media competition.

With an aim to shine a spotlight on the UK’s top small businesses, the campaign will feature its special ‘Blue Sofa’ interview series, where small businesses, entrepreneurs and leading local figures can share their stories about their business or local area, to a Facebook live audience.

Michelle Ovens MBE, Director, Small Business Saturday, said:

“From Birkenhead to Belfast, Glasgow to Carmarthen, The Small Business Saturday bus will travel the country to celebrate the UK’s fantastic growing businesses and shine a spotlight on their success. This tour is a way for us to give back to businesses at the heart of communities – celebrating them, championing them and providing a listening ear and a chance for mentoring. The tour is not just open to businesses, it’s open to everyone – every individual who can take a moment to appreciate the far-reaching impact small businesses have on their community.’

The Small Business Saturday Bus Tour is an important part of the official countdown to Small Business Saturday, taking place on 1 December 2018. It follows the recent launch of the UK’s Small Biz 100 – a daily celebration of 2018’s top small businesses from across the UK.

The bus tour will reach the following towns and cities:

·         Thursday 25th October, Blackburn

·         Friday 26th October, Birkenhead

·         Monday 29th October, Newcastle

·         Tuesday 30th October, Perth

o    Inverclyde (short stop)

·         Wednesday 31st October Glasgow

o    Kilmarnock (short stop)

·         Thursday 1st November, Armagh

·         Friday 2nd November, Belfast

·         Monday 5th November, Leeds

o    Southwell (short stop)

·         Tuesday 6th November, Bury St Edmunds

·         Wednesday 7th November, Colchester

·         Thursday 8th November, Northampton

o    Milton Keynes (short stop)

·         Friday 9th November, Burton on Trent

·         Monday 12th November, Loughborough

·         Tuesday 13th November, Birmingham

·         Wednesday 14th November, Leominster

·         Thursday 15th November, Carmarthen

o    Pontypridd (short stop)

·         Friday 16th November, Cardiff

·         Monday 19th November, Truro

·         Tuesday 20th November, Bristol

·         Wednesday 21st November, Christchurch

·         Thursday 22nd November, Brighton

·         Friday 23rd November, Tunbridge Wells

·         Monday 26th November, Slough

·         Tuesday 27th November, St Albans

·         Wednesday 28th November, Hammersmith

Small businesses can book mentoring sessions during the bus tour via the Small Business Saturday website.

Mentoring is an important and valued source of support for small businesses in their local communities. Recent research from peak b revealed that small businesses play a pivotal role as employers and change-makers in the local communities, with many small business owners stepping up to mentor others and 28% offering training for the wider community.

Now in its sixth year Small Business Saturday is the UK's most successful small business campaign, which last year saw an estimated £748m spent with small businesses across the UK on Small Business Saturday.

A grassroots, not-for-profit campaign, Small Business Saturday was originally founded by American Express in the U.S. in 2010. American Express remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK, as part of its on-going commitment to encourage consumers to shop small.

The Big Debate: 'Do Brighton's businesses give back enough?'

In Brighton, there are a growing number of businesses involved in ‘giving back’ to their local community. And often, the scale of their contribution is significant compared to their core business activity.

Most people who think about corporate and social responsibility (CSR) normally think "big business". These days, however, the concept of CSR is breaking out beyond the walls of big corporates.

Whether it’s being a governor at their kids' school, fundraising for a close-to-their-heart charity, mentoring other businesses, volunteering expertise or providing work experience opportunities – it all counts towards creating a huge bank of support which benefits our economy in so many ways.  

So, what is driving this movement? How do business owners and their employees get involved in these non-cash making activities? What are the results of this social conscience and desire to share skills and experience for good? Does it help the businesses who are doing it and make for happier employees? Can we map what’s happening and work out how to build on? Indeed, can we even quantify its impact?
 

With funding cuts affecting public sector organisations and reducing support services, and the same cuts hitting charities and the community sector, it is more important than ever to find ways to fill these gaps. We know a lot of businesses are giving back and many more are thinking about it. How can we support these businesses who, together, make an important and vital contribution to the city?

Here in Brighton there is something good going on, but is it the job of business and are they doing enough?

Join our panel to answer these questions at the Big Debate on 20 November, 4:30pm-7pm at the MET.
 

Our panel includes:

Sascha Koeler, General Manager at Hilton Brighton Metropole
Jo Crease, CEO at Brighton & Hove Impetus
Fiona Martin, Director and Head of Employment Law at Martin Searle Solicitors
 

Our chair:

Richard Freeman, CEO always possible

To book click here.

Coast to Capital Funding call Promoting Research and Innovation now live

The latest ERDF call from the Coast to Capital LEP is now live: Promoting business investment in research and innovation.

- developing links and synergies between enterprises, research and development centres and the Higher Education sector, in particular promoting investment in product and service development, technology transfer, social innovation, ecoinnovation, public service applications, demand stimulation, networking, clusters and open innovation through smart specialisation

- supporting technological and applied research, pilot lines, early product validation actions, advance manufacturing capabilities and first production, in particular in key enabling technologies and diffusion of general purpose technologies

For more information or to apply, click here.