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A long-established association of local businesses working together to support one another, strengthen the local economy and represent business interests across Christchurch and the surrounding areas.

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Contact Us

info@christchurchchamber.co.uk

07801 519380

10 Bridge Street
Christchurch, BH23 1EF

About the Chamber

Being in business today brings many challenges. Rising costs, changing regulations and increasing competition can make running a business feel isolating at times.

The Christchurch Chamber of Trade & Commerce exists to provide support, connection and a collective voice for businesses of all sizes. By working together, members can share experiences, build relationships and contribute to initiatives that benefit the wider Christchurch community.

The Chamber regularly engages with local organisations including council departments, economic development teams, tourism and hospitality groups and other strategic bodies. This helps ensure the real-life experiences and needs of local businesses are represented and understood.

Membership is open to businesses across the wider Christchurch area including Highcliffe, Mudeford, Stanpit, Somerford, Burton, Fairmile, Hurn, the Airport Business Park and surrounding industrial and retail areas.

Christchurch, Dorset

What We Do

Networking

Business breakfasts, guest speaker sessions and social events throughout the year to bring the local business community together.

Representation

Engaging with council, economic development teams and strategic bodies to ensure your voice is heard at the decision-making table.

Communication

Regular newsletters and updates sharing local business news, planning developments and opportunities to keep you informed.

Why Join?

Membership starts at just £40 a year — arguably the best business investment in Christchurch.

Raise your business profile

Get noticed across Christchurch. Chamber membership signals credibility and puts your business in front of the wider local community.

Attend exclusive networking events

Meet fellow business owners, build real relationships and discover new opportunities at regular members-only events throughout the year.

Have your voice heard

Shape the future of Christchurch commerce. The Chamber represents members in discussions with the council and other key decision-makers.

Stay ahead of local developments

Get early notice of planning decisions, local initiatives and opportunities that could affect your business — before anyone else.

Tap into a trusted support network

Fellow members are a goldmine of local knowledge. Get referrals, find trusted suppliers and collaborate with businesses that share your values.

Support your local economy

Be part of something bigger. Your membership actively helps strengthen the Christchurch business community for everyone.

Unbeatable Value

Less than a cup of coffee a week. Subscriptions are structured by business size and are typically tax-deductible.

1 to 5 employees

£40per year

6 to 26 employees

£75per year

26 to 99 employees

£120per year

Christchurch BID Levy Payers

Membership is free if you are a BID levy payer — simply email sueharmonsmith@gmail.com to opt in and Sue will confirm your membership.

"Together we are stronger"

The Christchurch Chamber has been serving the local business community for generations.

Meet the Executive Team

Local business people dedicated to supporting the Christchurch business community

Tim Lloyd

President & Tourism Representative

Tim is Managing Director of the Captain's Club Hotel & Spa and plays an active role in supporting Christchurch's hospitality and tourism sector. He is a director of Christchurch BID and represents local hotels on the BCP-wide Accommodation BID. Tim is also involved with the BH Area Hospitality Association and is a trustee of the Christchurch Food Festival Education Trust. A long-standing supporter of the Chamber, he previously served as President in 2001 and was a founder of the Christchurch Food Festival, remaining on the board for 20 years.

Joanna Polden

Vice President

Joanna is a committed business professional with a strong focus on customer care and staff wellbeing. After more than 15 years providing a childminding service in the local area, she joined her partner in running a First Aid and Fire Safety training company. The business supports numerous local events by providing essential medical cover, helping ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants and visitors across Christchurch.

Sue Harmon-Smith

Chamber Secretary

Sue plays a key role in the day-to-day running of the Chamber, supporting Executive meetings, membership administration, social events and contributing to the production of the Chamber Chat newsletter. She has extensive experience in tourism and event management, having previously served as Christchurch Tourism Manager and Manager of Adventure Wonderland. Sue has also been closely involved in major local initiatives including Stompin' on the Quomps and the Christchurch Food Festival.

Andrew Barfield

Immediate Past President

Andrew is proprietor of Gervis Accountants in Christchurch and has been actively involved in the local business community for many years. As Immediate Past President of the Chamber, he continues to provide valuable experience and continuity to the Executive Committee. Andrew is also involved in several local organisations and currently serves as Chair of Christchurch Magdalen.

Lucy Filer

BID Representative

Lucy is a partner at TC Group Accountants and Business Advisers, based in the heart of Christchurch. With over 25 years' experience working with local businesses, she brings significant insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the town. Lucy has been actively involved in business initiatives including serving as a former Chair of Christchurch BID and continues to work closely with the Chamber to support the local economy.

Karen Goldingay

Districts Representative

Karen has built an extensive career in hospitality and event organisation spanning more than three decades. Her experience ranges from running independent consumer businesses to organising large corporate events. She is currently Director of the Cliffhanger Restaurant, where she has spent the last 15 years developing the business and strengthening its reputation as a popular destination for both residents and visitors.

Bob Atkins

Planning Representative

Bob has been involved in business in Christchurch since 1974, running an engineering company specialising in product development, jig and tool design, and machine manufacture. Within the Chamber, he monitors weekly planning updates from BCP Council and highlights any developments that may affect local businesses, ensuring the Executive Committee remains informed.

Peter Thorne

Airport Representative

Peter previously ran a business in Christchurch and served as Chamber President in 1986/87. He has been a member of the Executive Committee for over 40 years and brings a wealth of historical knowledge and experience. He has also represented the Chamber on the Bournemouth Airport Consultative Committee for many years and has chaired the committee on three occasions.

Rhiannon Stevinson

Executive Committee Member

Rhiannon is a lawyer at Frettens Solicitors and supports the Chamber Executive as a general committee member. She is passionate about contributing to the success of the local area and assisting businesses wherever possible.

Online Membership Request

Complete the form and your request will be sent directly to the Chamber Secretary

Get Involved

Run by local business people for the benefit of the local business community. By joining, you help shape the future of Christchurch.

Visit christchurchchamber.co.uk

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