The Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce hosted a business networking event at The McMillan Theatre in Bridgwater, giving local businesses the opportunity to hear from MP for Bridgwater & West Somerset Ian Liddell-Grainger.

Ian gave a recount of recent developments in Parliament and gave some caution about the current economic situation saying, “Over the next year will we see little new policy and it will be a case of rebalancing the economy, holding inflation, keep interest rates down and making sure that regulations are pulled back to allow businesses to do their job”.

He added, “It’s going to be tough, and everybody has to knuckle down. We may be entering a recession and its going to be a case of getting through it. We’ll need to get this situation under control but it won’t be a quick fix.”

Chamber Manager, Diogo Rodrigues says, “Bridgwater is the shining jewel in Somerset and the envy of towns around us. There is so much going on in Bridgwater whether that’s the Hinkley development, the Gravity site, road infrastructure improvements or the funding going in to support our Town Centre through various schemes. All of this will grow the Bridgwater economy and the positive knock-on effects for local businesses are huge.” 

Police & Crime Commissioner for Avon & Somerset Mark Shelford was also present and spoke to businesses about the various hot crime topics and took questions from the floor. On anti-social behaviour affecting town centres Mark said, “There is no doubt that visible policing makes a significant difference and stops crime and we’re getting an extra 490 police officers in Avon and Somerset. However, getting a multi-agency response and everyone in a room together to tackle the issue is the best way to deal with ASB. Sometimes it can be challenging but it’s the best way forward.”

To join the next Bridgwater Chamber event please visit www.bridgwaterchamber.org.uk/chambers-events/