LBA update: September 2020

LBA news

Dear LBA member/Lightwater resident,

As you are aware, we have had to suspend our regular networking events and our Fayres in the Square due to the continuing pandemic.

However, we are still committed to helping make Lightwater as successful and vibrant a community as it can be under both the current circumstances and looking forward.

So, whilst public meetings are not going to be possible for the immediate future, we are switching our focus to supporting other initiatives that will enhance Lightwater, both for local businesses and the community.

LIGHTWATER PAVILION PROPOSAL

One project we are very excited about and keen to support is the proposed new Lightwater Pavilion in the recreation ground.

The current derelict building was condemned a few years ago and is unfortunately subject to regular break-ins, vandalism and other criminal activity and the police have recently recommended it is demolished as soon as possible.

Windlesham Parish Council are currently proposing a new pavilion/community hub that will provide: vastly improved changing facilities for visiting sports teams as well as potentially:

• An indoor community/business space suitable for events/meetings
• A café to provide hot drinks and snacks
• Toilet facilities
• A new council chamber and office to replace the inadequate spaces the parish council currently has to use, which will be more accessible to the public
• A desk for local police officers to interact with the community
• A greatly improved, safe playground
• Inherently more security for the field with CCTV, presence of staff etc.

If this much-needed project gets approval, we would particularly support the new café to serve that corner of the village, which will bring employment and hospitality to the recreation ground area.

Let Windlesham Parish Council know what you would like to see in this vital new facility: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/LVCN6BS

 

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN THE VILLAGE

Of course the most community-minded time of the year is rapidly approaching, and whilst it is a great shame we cannot run the Christmas Fayre in the Square this year, we are actively engaged in facilitating the Christmas Lights in the centre of the village as per usual. Unfortunately, the traditional switch-on ceremony can’t take place, but we hope the lights will bring a lot of festive cheer that will be even more welcome than normal this year.

 

CORONAVIRUS BOUNCE BACK LOANS

Finally, for now, although we can’t actively help with this, as a small business, you have up to the 4th November 2020 to apply for a Coronavirus Bounce Back Loan.
If your business was established before March 2020, based in the UK and adversely affected by the coronavirus, you should be eligible to apply.
The loans can be from £2000 up to 25% of your turnover up to a maximum of £50,000 and the government guarantees 100% of the loan and there won’t be any fees or interest to pay for the first 12 months. After 12 months the interest rate will be 2.5% a year.

It could be the lifeline your business needs to see you through the pandemic, so apply today, more info here:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-coronavirus-bounce-back-loan

We wish all our local businesses and residents the best. Stay safe, stay well, support each other and we look forward to a thriving future!

The LBA Committee

Event Date: 20 Oct 2020