Economic Growth 2 September 2026
BCC Economic Forecast: Weak Business Investment Hits Growth Outlook
The latest British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Economic Forecast suggests the outlook for the UK will remain uncertain. While the economy was more resilient in Q2 than expected, higher energy and business costs are likely to keep growth weak this year and next.
Next Generation, Skills Development 1 September 2026
Lifelong Learning Crucial to Tackling Youth Jobs Crisis
Urgently tackling the jobs crisis facing young people should be part of a wider rethink on lifelong learning, according to a new report by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).
With Alan Milburn’s final report into the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) due this Autumn, the BCC’s report argues “investment in youth opportunity and adult skills is not an either or”. The AI revolution makes this even more critical.
Digital & IT 28 August 2026
Your business is already using AI. Has your governance caught up? – IT Naturally
Learn how to identify the AI tools already in use across your business, manage access and data risks, and put practical governance in place.
AI tools often enter a business through one employee, one browser tab and one free trial at a time.
A member of the marketing team uses AI to improve or speed up content creation. A manager introduces a meeting assistant, while finance tests an automation platform.
Each decision may solve a genuine problem, but together they can leave the business with a collection of tools that nobody manages.
Women in Business 27 August 2026
The Bridgemasters of London – 850 Years of Engineering, Ceremony and Scandal
The role of Bridgemaster originated in 1176 to oversee the construction of Old London Bridge and the management of its properties, accounts and ceremonies. Over the centuries, the office and responsibilities evolved but the position was often marred by financial fraud, election manipulation and negligence. This lecture by one of the two current Bridgemasters will give a fascinating insight into one of the most ancient appointments in civic society and bridge engineering, with tales of scandal and controversy and an insight into the Bridgemasters’ modern role of promoting the charitable work of the City Bridge Foundation, the charity which owns and operates Tower Bridge and four other Thames bridges. There shall also be news on local Peterborough Bridges.
Uncategorised 27 August 2026
Driving a love of reading: new summer programme brings books to bus journeys in Peterborough
The National Literacy Trust in Peterborough has partnered with Stagecoach East this summer to launch Books on Board – a new initiative to encourage children and families to discover the joy of reading together while travelling by bus.
Across a number of routes, in the city, Stagecoach double-decker buses have been supplied with a basket of books for children under 12. Parents and carers are encouraged to borrow a book for the duration of their journey and share a story with their children. The initiative provides opportunities to spark conversations, develop literacy skills and create memorable reading moments together.
Business Growth & Development 27 August 2026
Business Rates Review Must Be Wider
Jonny Haseldine, Head of Business Environment Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“While it is welcome for the pubs and hotels we represent, this review of valuations should be wider, and cover every sector.
“The full reform of business rates, promised by the government at the last election, is urgently needed. This continued piecemeal approach to reform is the wrong approach.
Next Generation 27 August 2026
NEETs data ‘Stark Reminder’ of Challenge Ahead
Hannah Larsen, Policy Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“Young people need to be at the heart of thriving businesses and a growing economy.
“Today’s data showing just under a million young people not in education, employment or training is a stark reminder of the huge challenge the UK is facing.
Uncategorised 26 August 2026
PEM strengthens commitment to innovation with Cambridge University Postdoc Venture Creation Challenge sponsorship
PEM is delighted to announce its sponsorship of the Postdoc Venture Creation Challenge (PVCC), a University of Cambridge initiative that supports postdoctoral researchers in transforming innovative research into successful ventures and businesses. The challenge welcomes pioneering ideas across deep tech, life sciences, AI, software and social impact, helping participants take their first steps into entrepreneurship.
International 26 August 2026
Canada and the US edge further into a tariff dispute
Key takeaways Tit-for-tat trade tariffs continue between the US and Canada UK household bills set to rise again with an energy price cap uplift ECB’s Schnabel argues for rate hikes for a resilient economy Australia set for rate hike after CPI overshoot Tit-for-tat trade tariffs continue between the US and Canada According to reports from […]