President’s summary of 2016

It’s been another successful year for the Chamber for Business thanks to your engagement.

On average we have around 50% of our membership active, attending our Breakfasts and other meetings. Our first Learning Lunch was a great success and we look forward to more in 2017, we will also holding further Meet the Neighbours events to encourage out of area networking.

The town has had another good year with very few empty retail outlets, and those vacated have been quickly re-let. We have part of DTEP being undertaken in the new year with the final part of South Street being pedestrianised and expect the new consultation on the future of Charles Street. We also expect to see the revised plans for the old prison site, we will be pushing for there to be affordable housing within the scheme. Our relationship with the BiD has continued to prosper. Dorchester is a great example of the BiD and Chamber working for one goal, the growth of business in the town.

Finally as you will be aware WDDC have decided to move the TIC to South Walks House within the library. We campaigned with local councillors and members to keep the TIC in a viable and visible position within the town centre, but the council were unable to find a viable option. We will need to evaluate how the new location works for visitors with a review expected in a year.

Have an enjoyable festive time and don’t forget to book for our January breakfast, booking now open on the website:

Steve Bulley & the Executive Team
Dorchester Chamber for Business