LEADING BUSINESS NW

20^th September 2007

CHAMBER BOSS WELCOMES DEAL FOR MEMBER COMPANIES

Chamber of Commerce President, Ian Crowe, has warmly welcomed the announcement of 450 jobs in the IT sector. He said:

"We are particularly delighted that Stream, the company that will be delivering the jobs, is a longstanding Chamber member. Indeed all three companies involved in this innovative deal are active members of our Chamber. This type of partnership is indicative of the new ways of doing business - ways in which more than one company can benefit."

Mr Crowe continued: "The 450 customer service, technical support, and sales jobs will bring a much needed boost to the entire city during this period of regeneration. Of course the fact that many of these jobs will be located at Stream's new Spencer Road location will act as an enormous economic catalyst for the area."

Janice Tracey, Chamber CEO said: "The Chamber has been working closely with traders in the Spencer Road area to help them develop a marketing strategy, finding their USP and niche in the shopping market. The location of the new health centre and the announcement of new jobs to the area are a welcome addition to add to the increasing throughput of people around the Spencer Road area". Ms Tracey went on to say: "However, many issues highlighted during the preparation of the marketing strategy will need addressed such as access, public transport, parking, litter and general cleanliness. The Chamber is working with the traders and the stakeholders to make sure that the Spencer Road area reaches its full potential. The potential is enormous when the regeneration of the Ebrington area is factored in."

The Chamber President concluded: "Its full steam ahead now to work with Stream on the ongoing recruitment for these posts and make sure that we can provide quality people for these quality jobs."

For further information contact Helena - 02871262379

Notes to Editors

The Chamber of Commerce is the NW's leading business representation organization, with over 400 direct members and through NWCCI (partnership of Chambers in the NW region), links to over 1000 businesses in the NW.