CHAIRS REPORT
Autumn Edition 2026
The mornings are getting darker, the temperatures certainly cooler. The same cannot be said for the explosion of political rhetoric starting to appear across the country as elected officials wake up to the fact that they have been somewhat obscure and “missing in action” since the last election and are now starting the endless charm offensives and profile building activities that will play out between now and the election November. Welcome to election year!
It was fabulous to see a great turnout for the first BA5 for the year which was hosted by the team at Davis Funerals. Coverage of the first ConnectHer event for 2026 can also be found on page 10.
It was pleasing to see recently a growing level of support from other Business Associations by way of a press release for a cause that we have been lobbying Council over for some time now. This is with respect to the unreasonable level of control and bureaucratic oversight that AT have imposed when it comes to leveraging streetside poles and infrastructure to broaden CCTV coverage.
As I have reported in previous editions of WEst, Business West is committed to the further expansion of our existing CCTV deployment to ensure we are doing what we can to provide security and protection to the businesses, residents and the wider community within our BID area.
Finally, I am delighted to be able to announce the deployment of Business West’s enhanced communication platform which will be going live in April. This has been a major undertaking over many months. The delivered solution is so much more than simply a revision of the Association’s website.
Please take time to read the article “ A New Digital Front Door for Business West “ on the page 18 for more information. We will be promoting the launch with communication and support, encouraging members to embrace the benefits that the platform will provide them.
Wishing you the best in business and health.
Michael Powell | Chair BUSINESS WEST