Gatwick expansion plans are due to be decided by government ministers later this year. Airport bosses are announcing they are prepared to make several changes to proposals relating to noise and public transport.
London Gatwick says bringing the Northern Runway into routine use is “one of the biggest growth opportunities for the UK today”.
The £2.2 billion project is privately financed and could serve up to 80 million passengers a year. And those at the airport claim it will drive growth. They claim it will inject an additional £1 billion into the UK economy every year, creating 14,000 jobs.
The plans include moving the runway (currently used as a standby) 12 metres. This would allow the UK’s second busiest airport to have a second fully functioning runway.
Plans for bringing the northern runway into use were first consulted on in 2021.
A final decision is due by October 2025. Gatwick say work could start this year and be complete by 2030.
Gatwick’s response
London Gatwick responded to the Secretary of State’s minded to approve letter last week. It incorporated feedback on key conditions related to noise and public transport
In its response Gatwick stated it will accept stricter limits on aircraft noise. It has also put forward an improved noise insulation scheme for local residents.
Gatwick has also accepted a requirement of 54% of passengers using public transport prior to bringing the Northern Runway into operation.
The response reiterated the need for third parties, including the Department for Transport, to support delivery. This would include, for example, reinstating the full Gatwick Express train service.
If the 54% target is not achieved then London Gatwick has also proposed an alternative cars-on-the-road limit. This will be met before first use of the Northern Runway to address concerns about possible road congestion.
If neither are met, then use of the Northern Runway would be delayed until £350m of road improvements have been completed. This would make sure any additional road traffic flows can be accommodated and any congestion avoided.
London Gatwick response also included measures to strengthen sustainable design and reduce emissions.
Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network launched at Surrey’s UCA
Published 20 April 2025
Innovation, Skills and workforce
A Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network has been established in Surrey, driving global conversations on technological change in this crucial regional and national sector.
The UK’s creative and cultural industries are worth £125 billion and trillions globally. It is a sector that is constantly evolving, with huge technological advances coming and fast.
But with the World Economic Forum employers anticipating 39% of workers’ core skills will change by 2030, there’s a challenge how industry leaders will adapt to change.
The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) is tackling these questions head on, starting by bringing together industry leaders. The inaugural meeting of the Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network took place at its Farnham campus last week.
Organisations attending the launch included Warner Bros, British Film Institute, Adobe, ITN and Apple’s Media Arts Lab.
About the Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network
Challenges for leadership was the focus of the first session, taking place at UCA’s bespoke Creative Business School.
Professor Lyndsay Duthie, UCA’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic Partnerships & Industry Engagement, explained:
“The creative and cultural industries are full of opportunity, but being part of the narrative is vital to thrive in these changing times. We need to think globally to maximise potential and collaborate across disciplines. UCA has developed this Network with senior industry leaders to share ideas and shape its future.”
Speakers included:
Samantha Perahia, Head of Production from British Film Commission,
Sara Whybrew Director of Skills at British Film Institute,
Stephen Hancock, Executive Director, Apple’s Media Arts Lab
award-winning TEDx speaker, Andy Coley
All acknowledged the importance of talent pipelines, resilience and leadership.
Other representatives taking part in discussions on leading for the future, considering AI, ethics and cultural power, included:
Kim Rowell, Managing Editor, ITN and Vice Chair of Royal Television Society Technology Centre,
Emma Thwaites from The Open Data Institute
Chris Wheeler from Warner Bros.
Niels Stevens Adobe
UCA’s President & Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jane Roscoe, reiterated:
“UCA is in a great position to facilitate the important discussions we must now have to future-proof our sector. The event confirmed that we can play a leading role supporting, steering and equipping the creative and cultural leaders for the challenges today and tomorrow.”
If you’d like to join UCA’s Creative and Cultural Industries Leaders Network please email Helen Witt.
Surrey and the Creative Industries
Surrey’s creative industries cluster is a vibrant and dynamic sector. It comprises a diverse array of businesses, educational institutions, and collaborative networks.
It has more than 10,000 digital startups, film and TV studios, artistic producers, and entertainment companies employing 45,000 people.
There is a range of support available for freelancers, startups and businesses in the creative industries. Contact us to find out more.
Image credit: UCA
US tariffs support made available by government
Published 17 April 2025
Business news
US tariffs of 10% have recently been imposed on most UK goods imported into the United States. To support businesses in Surrey and the rest of the country, government is introducing some support measures.
Businesses in Surrey have a long track-record of trading with the world. And with the United States being our largest and closest trading partner, it could have an impact on how you do your business.
UK government has a range of US tariffs support on offer, including:
Government has suspended tariffs on a range of imported goods into the UK.
US tariffs currently in operation
The additional 10% tariff is on top of existing US duties, fees and taxes on imports from the UK. It’s been live since 5 April.
These additional tariffs do not apply to US imports of:
steel, aluminium articles and automobiles, which are subject to separate additional 25% tariffs. Tariffs of 25% on automobile parts are due to be implemented no later than 3 May.
copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and lumber
energy, energy products and other minerals not available in the US
The tariffs situation is fast moving. So, it’s worth discussing the latest situation direct with the UK export support service before making any key business decisions.
UK trade with the US
The UK exports more to the US than to any other single country.
Or if you would like more bespoke support, get in touch with out team of experts via our business support form.
North Downs Line improvements backed
Published 15 April 2025
Business news
The North Downs Line Partnership, which aims to improve east-west train connectivity in Surrey, is receiving support from key organisations.
The North Downs Line is a key orbital east-west link for the South-East. It connects Reading, Guildford, Dorking, Gatwick Airport and the towns and villages in between.
As part of broader efforts to support regional economic growth and transport decarbonisation, a new partnership group is now meeting.
Great Western Railway (GWR), Network Rail, London Gatwick and Surrey County Council attended the inaugural meeting of the group. Its aim is to improve local services, grow the line and unlock further benefits for customers.
Partners want to develop the growth corridor while working closely together to deliver better services for residents and customers.
A key change could be the introduction of fast-charge battery trains on the line. This is something that GWR bosses shared with partners at the inaugural meeting.
Ongoing improvements
The North Downs Line Partnership is already unlocking benefits for passengers. It is building on early success of collaboration, including increased connectivity and a better timetable.
The December 2023 timetable change saw the introduction of two trains per hour between Reading and London Gatwick. This led to nearly 100,000 new passenger journeys year-on-year, with customers taking advantage of more frequent services to better suit their plans. Further plans to improve the timetable are in development.
Members of the partnership recently visited GWR’s fast charge battery test train at West Ealing to see the innovative technology.
Partners agree battery electric powered trains offer the best solution to replace the diesel trains currently in service on the line. It will provide better outcomes for passengers and support decarbonisation.
Next steps will be to encourage more partners to get involved to improve this vital train link. It is also looking to champion future investment in the line to promote rail as a sustainable way to travel.
Cllr Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for Transport, Highways and Economic Growth, said:
“We’re pleased to see this new Partnership launched to focus improvements on the North Downs Line, working with a range of organisations to deliver on this. As the first local authority to sign up, we want to encourage more partners to come forward and share knowledge, expertise and ideas to improve the service.”
Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said:
“As we continue to grow as an airport, it is vital that we continue to invest in boosting sustainable transport options for our passengers and local communities.
“The Great Western Railway service to Reading is already a vital service. Our partnership provides the framework for an even more ambitious and collaborative approach to developing air to rail services at London Gatwick. We are delighted to continue this journey with the GWR team.”
Mark Hopwood, Managing Director of Great Western Railway said:
“The North Downs Line remains a key route on our network, connecting communities across four counties with London Gatwick. We’re proud to serve it. We want to see the timetable strengthened and deliver these improvements with local stakeholders to best accommodate the diverse range of customer needs along the route.”
Mark Goodall, Wessex Route Director for Network Rail, said:
“We are investing in the North Downs Line. Earlier this year, we replaced the wheel timbers on the bridge over the River Wey, south of Guildford.
“We are committed to finding ways to renew and improve the line for years to come to better serve those communities. Later this year, we will be completing the resignalling project on the line between Guildford and Reigate. Further details will be announced in due course.”
GDLX25 indie games expo comes to Surrey
Published 7 April 2025
Events and awards, Innovation
GDLX25, a leading games expo showcasing the best indie talent in the UK, is coming to Surrey for the first time.
More than 600 people attend the annual event run by Game Dev Local. It’s normally held in east London but was at risk of being cancelled after the venue fell through.
The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) came to the rescue, hosting the fourth edition of GDLX at its Farnham campus this weekend (April 12, 2025)
Stuart De Ville, CEO of GDL, contacted UCA to ask if anything could be done to help. The team at the university then stepped in.
Andy Bossom, UCA’s Industry Engagement Lead for the School of Games and Creative Technology said:
“UCA prides itself on its can-do attitude – we are agile and were able to step in at the last minute, to become the host partner institution.
“It’s important for us to support the indie developer community, as many of UCA’s games graduates aspire to work on unique indie games after graduation. The last couple of years has been tough for the games industry, in terms of studio closures and the pausing of other key UK games events.”
Stuart De Ville, CEO of GDL, said:
“The support from UCA has been nothing short of amazing. When we faced the unexpected challenge of losing our venue, it stepped up to ensure GDLX25 could still happen.
“Events like this are vital to the indie games industry, providing a space for developers to showcase their work, connect with industry professionals, and build a stronger community. Thanks to UCA, we can continue that mission and bring together some of the brightest talent in indie games this year.”
What is GDLX25?
GDLX25 is an indie games expo for indie game developers and enthusiasts.
GDLX25 is taking place Saturday 12 April, from 12pm to 7pm at the University for the Creative Arts in Farnham, Surrey.
With more than 50 independent games companies and around 600 attendees, it will showcase the brightest talent in the industry.
There will be industry talks, networking opportunities, and a careers stage led by experts on a wide range of topics, including game design, programming, art, and sound.
UCA can also announce, GAIN – Games and Innovation Nexus – will be the main sponsor of the event. GAIN is a partnership between UCA, the University of Surrey, and the University of Warwick supporting the wider gaming industry.
Games and Surrey
Surrey’s video game industry is one of the largest and most vibrant in the UK. It has over 85 studios and is often called the ‘Hollywood of Gaming’.
Surrey has seen many world-first innovations in this growing sector. In total it generates more than £3 billion a year for the UK GDP and employs almost 50,000 people.
The region is home to a diverse array of studios, from small independent teams to large companies.
We’ve worked closely with UCA and the University of Surrey on the GAIN programme. This aims to strengthen links and develop infrastructure between gaming businesses in Surrey.
Funding to boost growth for Surrey’s businesses and economy
Published 1 April 2025
Business news, Funding and grants
Funding to boost growth is now available from Surrey County Council with millions available for innovative ideas to enhance the economy.
Businesses, employer representative groups and partner organisations are all invited to apply for investment from the new Economic Growth Fund.
Up to £7 million is available for this financial year. Grants will be awarded to those demonstrating how they will boost economic outcomes for the people, places and businesses of the county.
Applications for the first round are now open, closing at the end of May. Apply via the form on the Business Surrey website.
The launch comes as the Council also publishes Surrey’s Economic Growth Strategy 2025 to 2035, which sets out the long-term focus and priorities to drive sustainable growth in the county for the next decade.
Business Growth Grants support companies of all sizes to scale up and create jobs. Match funding of between £10,000 and £50,000, covering 50% of project costs is available.
The Innovation Spaces Fund focuses on physical infrastructure, such as training hubs, collaborative workspaces, and testing facilities. Minimum bid of £50,000.
The Future Surrey Fund is open to anyone, including partners – such as employer representative groups, local authorities, research institutions and schools. Applications should focus on innovative ideas that can scale while delivering economic impact in Surrey.
To apply, you’ll need to demonstrate how your bid delivers against the three priorities in the refreshed economic strategy. These are workforce and skills; business growth; and economic infrastructure in Surrey’s communities.
There’s a two step process for all three areas, starting with an expression of interest.
Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Economic Growth, said:
“This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses, training providers and partners to secure immediate investment in ideas to drive growth in Surrey.
“We know that Surrey has a strong economy, contributing £50 billion a year to UK PLC. But the refreshed economic strategy highlights several challenges around start-ups, high-growth businesses, retaining talent and an increasing number of people out of work.
“The new Economic Growth Fund is one of the ways we can tackle those challenges while delivering benefits to the people, places and businesses across the county. Our ambition is simple: we want to position Surrey as one of the UK’s leading regional economies while ensuring No One is Left Behind.”
Chris Hurren, Chair of the Surrey Business Leaders Forum, said:
“Growth in Surrey, like much of the country, has slowed in recent years. We can only tackle the challenges by working together while focusing on the needs of businesses and outcomes for our people and places.
“The refreshed Economic Strategy, which is evidence-led and developed in partnership with businesses, employer representative groups, academia and other key stakeholders, is very much the starting point of our journey.
“Together, we’re determined to drive forward this ambitious agenda and deliver our ambition to benefit our residents, businesses and wider communities.”
Marketing toolkit now available to Surrey businesses
Published 19 March 2025
Advice and support, Business news
A marketing toolkit to help Surrey businesses start, grow and thrive is now available via the Business Surrey website.
As part of our work to support businesses of all sizes across Surrey, we’ve developed a series of online training videos focusing on promoting and selling companies to customers.
Marketing is one of the most requested areas of support that we receive from Surrey businesses.
And this toolkit will help increase your understanding and confidence around marketing techniques while developing a bespoke approach to grow your customer base and increase sales.
You can access the toolkit in just a few clicks by completing the form on the Marketing Toolkit page.
What is the Business Surrey marketing toolkit?
The Marketing Toolkit videos are hosted by members of the Business Surrey team in conversation with specialist adviser Daniel Chidley. He has over 20 years of experience in supporting businesses of all sizes with marketing support.
The four videos cover a range of topics on a “learn as you go” basis.
Each one comes with a DIY worksheet document available for downloading. These can be completed as you go – meaning the learning can be directly applied to your own business.
Two completed case studies are also available to provide help and inspiration.
The videos are designed to be watched as a series and cover:
Marketing Strategy
why a strategy and plan are crucial foundations on which to build your marketing activities.
Understanding Your Customer
defining your target audience, identifying the channels you need to use to reach customers, and creating content to use in your communications
Marketing Technologies
focusing on media channels, the importance of a website and social media – plus customer relationship management tools.
Your Marketing Action Plan
covering off budgeting and how much you should be spending, while also looking at who should carry out marketing activities.
The toolkit has been funded by UK government as part of our Surrey Growth Hub service. The videos were filmed at Tannery Studios in Send by Lamplight Media.
Need additional support?
The Business Surrey Marketing Toolkit uses technology to provide a different way of providing bespoke business support.
But we recognise that some business owners may need additional help, either via email, phone or face-to-face.
Local government reorganisation interim proposals put forward by Surrey leaders
Published 14 March 2025
Business news
Local government reorganisation in Surrey is moving a step forward as leaders of all 12 Surrey councils agree on the key points of an interim proposal for the county.
Under the plans – which need to be signed off by ministers – Surrey Council Council along with the county’s 11 district and borough councils could be dissolved by April 2027. They would be replaced by a series of new unitary councils.
Ministers say streamlining local government could lead to greater efficiencies, improved service delivery, and economic growth for businesses in the area.
Government adds that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Surrey will then unlock further devolution in the county. This could see greater responsibilities transferred out of Whitehall to local leaders to drive economic growth.
Local government reorganisation in Surrey
In February, government asked Surrey to move forward quickly with plans for local government reorganisation and devolution.
All Surrey Council Leaders have worked together over recent weeks, agreeing key areas of collaboration and principles for reorganisation and devolution in the county.
The proposal sets out how the county council will work jointly with district and borough councils through LGR and devolution. It also highlights opportunities for residents and businesses across Surrey.
District and borough councils in Surrey are also discussing options for reorganisation and will publish their recommendations in due course.
Government will give direction on whether any of these options should be developed further. A full business case will then be submitted on 9 May. A final decision is expected from ministers in the Autumn.
LGR – what council leaders are saying
Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council said:“I’m pleased that Surrey’s Leaders have come together to agree the principles of a local government reorganisation proposal – which makes Surrey the first area in the country to agree a collective plan with all councils.
“I am clear that two unitary councils would bring the most benefits for Surrey’s residents. It would create a simpler model of local government that is more efficient, offers better value for money and improved outcomes for all.
“We are well prepared for change in Surrey and our proposal would set the foundations for better public service alignment and unlock further devolution, meaning we can elect a mayor which will bring more power, flexibility and funding.
“Throughout the development of this proposal we’ve engaged with partners across Surrey to ensure we’re putting the best option forward to government. It’s important to consider how all council services, as well as other bodies like the police, fire service, health services operate, so any new system makes sense for residents.”
Hannah Dalton, Chair of Surrey Leaders Group said:“The leaders of Surrey’s councils have been meeting weekly to discuss how local government will be structured here in Surrey.
“Today, district and borough councils will publish a report outlining potential options on what form local government reorganisation may take, which will include scenarios for two and three unitary councils. The vast majority of the 11 districts and boroughs are supporting three unitaries.
“Next week, Extraordinary Council Meetings will take place across the county, at which councillors are invited to note the initial submission.
“We remain committed to working together to agree a proposal that achieves the best possible outcomes for our residents.”
How will LGR and devolution impact Surrey businesses?
The creation of new unitary councils across Surrey will affect businesses across the county.
From a practical point of view, who you pay business rates to will change. Other local services like commercial waste, planning, licensing, environmental health and trading standards could also move to a new authority.
Devolution could have an even greater impact. Evidence from areas like Greater Manchester and West Midlands shows that handing greater powers to regional leaders can drive growth. It can also strengthen local economies.
Surrey is already benefiting from some devolved responsibilities. This includes business support delivered via Business Surrey’s Growth Hub service and Surrey Careers Hub.
Additional devolution could see transport, skills, employment support and strategic planning move under an elected regional mayor.
This will mean greater control and local accountability over the development of Surrey’s economy.
What happens next?
Government has asked Surrey County Council to submit an interim plan by next week (March 21). A final proposal is due by May 9. Ministers will then decide on the best option for Surrey by Autumn this year.
To help meet the ambitious timelines, government has postponed County Council elections for one year to May 2026.
Elections to new ‘shadow’ unitary councils are expected to take place in May 2026. They could officially go live in April 2027 when existing councils will dissolve.
Devolution is set to follow once LGR is complete. This could see a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) created for the county, enabling further devolution across Surrey. Or Surrey could join a neighbouring MSA.
Visit the FAQs page on the County Council website for further information.
Digital changes coming for Surrey businesses
Published 13 March 2025
Advice and support, Innovation
Digital changes are coming for Surrey businesses of all sizes, which may impact how customers and suppliers contact, pay and invoice you.
In less than two years, all analogue landlines in the UK will be switched off. This could impact how customers contact your Surrey business and how they pay for your services.
Government is also considering the roll out of e-invoicing, which could improve productivity and automate business processes.
Below we set out how and when these changes are coming into force. And why your Surrey business should start thinking about future-proofing your business today.
Digital changes: phone lines
Landlines in the UK are going digital – but is your business ready?
The existing analogue technology – the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) – which has supported phone and broadband services for decades is being retired and switched off. This is because the network is old, and becoming harder and more expensive to maintain.
So by early 2027, all landline calls will be delivered over digital technology, called Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). You might also see this referred to as ‘digital phone’ or ‘digital voice’.
This is not happening only in the UK. These changes are taking place all over the world.
Business benefits of digital phone lines
Trade magazine ISPreview estimates one in five (22%) of all UK businesses are still using analogue systems.
New digital phone lines will allow communications providers (such as BT, Virgin Media O2, Sky and Vodafone) to offer consumers and businesses clearer and better quality phone calls. There could also be new features such as anonymous caller rejection or three-way calling.
VoIP is also more resistant to severe weather. The cables used are waterproof and less prone to damage during a storm or other severe weather events.
Landlines may also be used for alternative devices such as lift alarms, fax machines, burglar alarms and card payment systems.
BT has taken the decision to retire its PSTN by January 2027. This means other providers that use BT’s network must follow the same timescale – so, at most, Surrey businesses have 18 months to move over to a new digital network.
Communications providers will not know which devices are connected to their network. So it is important for you to review which devices you’re using and decide if they need replacing or upgrading.
Then contact your current communications provider to discuss alternatives.
Would electronic invoicing help your Surrey business? Government is seeking views on standardising and increasing its adoption across UK businesses.
E-invoicing is the digital exchange of invoice information directly between buyers’ and suppliers’ financial systems, even if these systems are different. The invoice is then automatically written into the buyer’s financial system without manual processing.
Increased e-invoicing uptake may support economic growth, business productivity, improve business cashflow and reduce errors in tax returns. It has the potential to both support businesses and tax administration.
HMRC and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) are currently running a joint consultation to understand how e-invoicing may align with you or your customers’ businesses.
Businesses of all sizes – whether they use e-invoicing or not – are encouraged to take part, along with interest groups, representative bodies, industry bodies and individuals.
Our team of experts can provide tailored advice to help your business grow and succeed. Get in touch to find out more via our business support form.
You can also register to receive our newsletter, to receive the latest information on events, funding and more, for all Surrey businesses, direct to your inbox every month.
SME Surrey Business Awards 2025 deadline approaches
Published 11 March 2025
Events and awards
The countdown is on for Surrey businesses to enter the Surrey SME Business Awards 2025.
The SME Surrey Awards are an exciting opportunity to support and share in our vision to raise the profile of industrious, hardworking and enterprising SMEs in Surrey.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are businesses whose personnel numbers are 250 employees or less.
SMEs are also said to be responsible for driving innovation and competition in many economic sectors. These awards are the perfect chance to showcase your work to a wider audience.
As the organisers of the event say: “Business awards are a sought after accolade of achievement, a veritable endorsement of success in business which offers exceptional marketing and PR opportunities as well as increasing your credibility and standing in the eyes of your peers and your customers. Of course, it feels pretty wonderful too!”
All entries are judged by up to four of the awards’ national panel of judges.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in the Harbour Hotel, Guilford, on June 10.
SME Surrey Business Awards 2025 categories
There are 20 categories to enter, including:
Apprentice of the Year
Best Enterprising Business
Best New Business
Business Person of the Year
Employer of the Year
Corporate Social Responsibility Award
Community Business of the Year
High Growth Business of the Year
Young Business Person of the Year
Service Excellence
Website of the Year
There are also two separate Business of the Year Awards – one for businesses with fewer than 50 employees; and one for those with more than 50 employees.
You may enter up to 3 awards categories and 1 public vote category. Each entry costs £21.50 plus VAT.
