After a second public meeting in the town last week on the subject of establishing the Ilfracombe Business Forum to provide a single voice for all businesses in the town, the next step is to involve as many of the town's businesses as possible.

At present, where councils and other agencies take decisions affecting the town, there is often no representation from the business sector. A forum would provide a channel for business to voice its requirements and concerns. With cutbacks reducing support from the private sector in coming years, businesses are also likely to become the drivers of most future development and the forum can be a vehicle for this.

The move to establish a forum is being driven by Transform with help from volunteers to collect details of as many businesses as possible so that every business can be included. The aim is to establish the forum as an independent entity to run itself.

If you are an Ilfracombe business and want to participate, or just be kept informed, please contact Robert Zarywacz with your email address at rob...@z2z.com or contact Transform directly.

A public meeting is being held for all businesses in Ilfracombe with a view to establishing the Ilfracombe Business Forum to represent all businesses in the town,

The meeting will be hosted by Ilfracombe town councillor Ron Ley, who will outline the town council’s strategy and its importance to businesses, and introduce two guest speakers:

> Steve Halsall of research company CACI will present results of recent visitor perception studies in Ilfracombe

> Laura Holt from North Devon + will present the new North Devon web site to be launched on October 4 and outline PR and marketing initiatives attracting visitors to the area.

At the end of the meeting volunteers will be sought to progress the forum.

Time: 4pm to 5.30pm
Date: Tuesday 28 September 2010
Venure: Crescent Hotel, Ilfracombe.

For more information call Sally Nelson at North Devon + on 01237 426416.