Welcome to the Website for the Teignmouth Traders Association

There has been a request that we investigate rationalising the collection of waste in the town for traders.

Eg: Appoint one contractor to collect waste – this will reduce the number of visiting HGV’s during the week coming into the town and should reduce the cost to individual traders.

Ian will investigate suitable contractors.

The Council wish to create a “Business Improvement District” (B.I.D).

This will be funded by a 1.5% levy on rates. The fund can then be spent on whatever traders and business people in the town feel are the priorities.

In Newton Abbot, the fund will generate £180,000.

It is unclear who is expected to contribute – town businesses or all local businesses.

This B.I.D already operates in Torquay and their advice should be sought to help us understand how it works.

A Company would be set up to administer the fund.

Jacqui Orme enquired whether the business rates for shops in Bank Street could be challenged on the grounds that they are based on big High Street traders, whereas in Bank Street, the traders are not.

Aubrey Pitts raised concerns about the town’s new one way system which is a logistical nightmare.

James McMurray advised that a review of the system is to be requested.

Ian Palmer advised that Torquay is not participating in the parking concessions.

Andy Robinson advised that we may get a trial of reduced parking charges in one of the town car parks, such as Eastcliff - £1 parking on a Saturday.

James McMurray advised that the Teignmouth Car Park Charges are to be frozen for the first hour. Increases will be applied for longer stays with effect from April 2011.

Aubrey suggested to James that the Taxi Rank be extended in Station Street by 5 spaces.

When the Police vacate their former premises in Carlton Place, it will release several parking spaces for public use. James agreed to investigate.

Ian wanted to purchase bunting for Teign Street & Regent Street, he will approach the Council to see if they have any, first of all, and he requested permission to spend £60 if necessary.

There was concern over who would put up the bunting and at what cost. Ian will speak to Dave Ticknell as there may be some funding available for the Royal Wedding celebrations.

We have an opportunity to take a full page in the Teignmouth News to promote our forthcoming events. If we obtain agreement from 16 traders to advertise their business at £40 per advert, it will more than cover the cost of the page. In addition, we will promote our events on local radio.

Ian’s son has agreed to update our website with events and information on a weekly basis at 1 hour per week for the annual sum of £250.

It will also contain minutes of meetings and other relevant information.

It was agreed unanimously to accept his offer.

Jacqui informed the members about the inaugural meeting of a mentoring scheme supported by Anne Marie Morris MP on 10^th March 2011 at Take 2, from 4pm to 5.30pm.

It is intended that this will help local small businesses by offering free advice to existing and start-up businesses and everyone was encouraged to attend.

Jacqui advised members that this new Club was happy to work with the Teignmouth Traders Association on arranging social events for members and helping with the stewarding of events.

Yvonne confirmed a bank balance in hand of £1,538 and 81 current members.

Andy advised that a Teignmouth based businessman would offer his services to carry out rent and business rate reviews for members.

He is to be invited to the next General Meeting.

The Meeting closed at 7.45pm.