Cabinet Member for Regeneration-Councillor Graham Williamson today writes in the Havering Daily on the importance of local businesses.
When I first became a Cabinet member for Development, Regeneration, and Economic development my aim was to attract wealth into the borough but it soon became clear that the Government wasn’t likely to do so after underfunding Havering for years. The only alternative is to attract new, and support for existing businesses in the borough.
Business bring jobs, spends monies within the borough, contributes to rateable and rental incomes. Big ticket items such as the East Havering Data would, if approved, bring significant financial benefits to the borough e.g. £2 billion spent within the local economy and attract in its turn plenty of new business to the borough too. SME’s however, whilst of limited size and value, are the lifeblood of any local economy, none more so than in Havering. Stats suggest that well over 90% of our local businesses are of the micro type i.e., 9 and under employees, the highest % in London and in most other places. Some of these enterprises also offer further benefits by supporting social value projects and integrating even further into a community.
For example, I had the pleasure of recently attending the Fat Pizza Elm Park’s community giveaway. It was a lively event drawing families, friends and food lovers to Elm Parade – marking the business’ generous giveaway of 500 fresh and delicious pizzas for just £1 each in a gesture of gratitude from owners Ripu and Sunny Chhina to the local community.
The Fat Pizza Elm Park is no stranger to accolades, winning Best Takeaway in Havering’s Small Business Awards in 2024, and retaining the title this year with the winners announced on the 24 September. Their commitment to quality and innovation has also earned them the prestigious Gold Seal Good Food Award for 2024/25, marking their sixth consecutive win.
The Fat Pizza is also deeply rooted in community values. The whole Chhina family are actively involved in the business, as well as the local community, and are a shining example of how small businesses can thrive through passion, quality and genuine care for their community. Their success is a win for Elm Park and a testament to the power of local enterprise that we should value
Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!
We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.