Netflix, the global entertainment company, will operate and significantly expand the film and production facility at the renowned Longcross Studios complex in Runnymede. The investment will significantly increase the breadth and calibre of production facilities at what is already one of the country’s leading film production sites.

Cllr Nick Prescot, Leader, Runnymede Borough Council welcomed the announcement of the investment.

“We’re delighted to hear that Netflix is coming to Runnymede. The agreement between Netflix and Aviva Investors to operate and invest in the development of Longcross Studios is a huge vote of confidence in North Surrey, and we’re eager for the economic boost which this powerhouse of a company will bring to the Borough as it seeks to create a potentially world class facility. Working with the Local Enterprise Partnership, we’ll do all we can to encourage the studios to use local businesses and hire people within the area wherever possible”.

Anna Mallett, vice president, physical production, EMEA/UK, at Netflix, said:

“The new lease at Longcross highlights our commitment to investing in the UK creative industry and will provide a wealth of opportunities and production jobs, from entry level to heads of department” .

The countdown to Christmas is on and we’re encouraging people to shop local and support businesses and the economy in the process.

We’re pleased to have received financial support from the Welcome Back Fund to host the Addlestone Festive Fayre and annual Christmas light switch on. The event is set to take place in the centre of town, from midday to 7pm on Saturday 20 November.

A pop-up market will be held inside Addlestone One, with 14 independent businesses showcasing their crafts and products to residents. In addition, several town centre retailers will also offer late night shopping to support the event and offer more options for local people.

The Christmas cheer doesn’t end there. Chertsey town centre will be receiving dazzling new Christmas lights this year, also thanks to a £10,000 grant from the Welcome Back Fund. Enjoy the sparkling display whilst attending The Chertsey Christmas Goose Fair on Saturday 4 December, from 10am – 2.30pm. You can enjoy craft and gift stalls, festive food, entertainment and more.

The University Of Winchester is offering business leaders a low cost, high quality leadership and management skills programme. The support provides 50 hours of support over 12 weeks and is designed to be manageable alongside full time work. You will be required to attend four workshops at the university.

The fees are subsidised, the government pays 90% of the fees making the total cost to you, only £750. To be eligible you must be a senior leader of an SME with a minimum of five employees.

Visit Help to Grow to find out more and to sign up.

The Runnymede Community Safety Partnership would like to know your views on crime and antisocial behaviour in your area
Complete the Survey by 17 December.

As business owners and staff, you play a vital role in identifying warning signs of child exploitation. Do you know what the warning signs are? One of the biggest issues in tackling child exploitation, is that in isolation the warning signs aren’t always obvious or feel concerning enough to act on, meaning that it can go on beneath the radar. To find out more watch Did you see that coming?

Discover how to access co-investment funding from the Department for International Trade for SMEs who want to grow into new overseas markets

? Wednesday, 17 September

⏰ 10am – 12pm

Register: The Internationalisation Fund

Join the FSB virtual networking session in Surrey. Free for non-members.

? Friday, 19 November

⏰ 11:45am – 1pm

Register: Surrey Virtual Networking

Have you ever wondered what all the fuss was about 5G? Do you want to hear how other businesses are using 5G to boost their businesses?

? Tuesday, 23 November

⏰ 10am – 12pm

Register: Move to 5G

This free webinar is a ‘back to basics’ look at digital marketing specifically aimed at small businesses who want to better understand how to use digital marketing to find new clients whilst building better relationships with existing customers.

? Wednesday, 8 December

⏰ 3pm – 4pm

Register: Introduction to digital marketing

Come along to share a mince pie and a festive drink and a chance to network with local business owners. The Royal Holloway University of London are kindly hosting the festive fun in their new Enterprise Centre.

? Wednesday, 8 December

⏰ 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Register: Business Runnymede Festive Networking Event

Join us on social media, where we will be posting regular updates on our Twitter and Instagram accounts. Our LinkedIn account has now moved to:

Runnymede Borough Council LinkedIn

Using social media has become an important tool for success this year, we've seen some really inventive ideas and ways of engaging with customers.

Come and say hello and follow us! We are happy to share your posts and profiles.