BUSINESSES in Middlewich are being offered the chance to become part of the town’s new-look Chamber of Commerce, with a town councillor approaching owners to get involved.

Cllr David Latham, Middlewich Town Council member, has organised a meeting for businesses in the town to propose his new model, which he describes as a ‘network’.

The casual meeting will take place in the Boars Head Hotel on Monday, January 30, at 7.30pm, giving Cllr Latham an opportunity to present the concept and explain the benefits.

He said: “The feedback I have had is that businesses feel a bit isolated and there isn’t much of the camaraderie and unity that helps people come together and create a bit of a network.

“There are a lot of smaller, younger businesses with young owners, and that’s what we want to try to keep and encourage.

“This CoC is there to help if any smaller businesses get into trouble or need support or information. It’s about giving the businesses a voice, supporting their work and supporting others to bring business into the town.

“It’s not for everybody, but if you are a business you need to be looking for that next step forward.

“Being in business for 26 years myself, I feel it’s something should be there as an option. We are going around the smaller businesses, but if the bigger ones want to come in then that’s all the better.”

Many businesses have already been approached and sent a letter detailing the plans.

It reads: “I have always thought Middlewich businesses need to be able to pull together and represent themselves, allowing cross-business working and networking throughout the town, helping each business at whatever stage they are at.

“As we start 2017, I believe Middlewich finds itself in a very lucky position. Middlewich is one of very few towns which can boast numerous new independent businesses starting up on its high street.

“Along with the more established businesses this should be a very positive time for the town and its business owners.

“It is my belief that, with the numerous new businesses which are coming to the town, now is the right time for us all to come together and support each other.”

Cllr Latham says he already has support from a number of business owners in Wheelock Street and beyond, and that he is liaising with Middlewich Town Council and Middlewich Vision to create a more fluent network between all parties.

All business owners are invited to attend the meeting. Cllr Latham can be contacted at david@davidlatham7.orangehome.co.uk or on 07867912857.