A group of Chorleywood businesses and Residents' Association met on 26th November at the golf club to develop ideas from the previous meeting in June. Here are some notes from the lively and frank exchanges:
 
CRA provided an update about resident and business parking discussions with TRDC and the Memorial Garden project. There was agreement that the burden of rent and rates was a matter of concern for many retail businesses but there was little that could be done to influence these in the current circumstances. Information was also shared about the 6th December Christmas event and Chorleywood Sports spoke about their initiative for better health in the community and a scheme for cross promotion of local businesses both of which are under review.
 
The subsequent open forum exchanges identified the following areas to be explored further at the next meeting to be held in early part of 2020:
 
Chorleywood businesses faced challenges same as many other communities, including trend towards more service providers and online buying. However, opportunities also existed for all shops to take on these challenges and collaborate to create a community shopping experience providing personal local service. Entry of new entrepreneurs and change of ownership of some existing businesses should be viewed positively and of benefit.
 
Opportunities also exist for all the various elements of Chorleywood community to consciously adopt a “Buy Local” policy wherever possible and increase spend with local businesses. Shopping local also has environmental and health benefits.
 
Businesses can help improve aesthetics by making their premises look more inviting externally and internally in any way they can. CRA and various councils also have schemes to improve village centre aesthetics.
 
CRA would support any initiatives by making available all resources at its disposal, such as connections with all levels of government and its various communication channels, including monthly e-newsletters.