BUSINESSES in south west Hertfordshire are to be given a new platform from which to air their views and concerns.

The Partnership Forum was recently launched by the Watford Town Centre Partnership in an effort to ensure issues which affect them are heard in the Town Hall and by policy makers.

The partnership is involved in Watford's extensive CCTV system and, from this year on, will be responsible for providing new Christmas decorations for the town.

Other projects include town wide events, and promotional literature designed to raise the area's profile.

In addition, every business to join will be given free membership of Watford and West Herts Chamber of Commerce the largest business lobby group in Watford, which is involved in organising business seminars, training and exhibitions.

Town centre manager Ms Liz Jones said: "These are exciting times for Watford. We are one of only seven towns in the county to have a directly elected Mayor, we have the new Town Centre Partnership to bring real improvements to the town and the Chamber membership is increasing every month."

For more information and to apply for membership, telephone Ms Jones on 01923 251824.

For more information about the Watford and West Herts Chamber of Commerce, telephone Mr Roger Gagan on 01923 442442.

July 5, 2002 15:30