The news of rising numbers of COVID infections across the country and increased restrictions are a sobering start to the New Year. Last night’s announcement by the Prime Minister outlined a new national lockdown which will be reviewed by the government on 15th February. Government support is crucial for the survival of... read more →
Jan
05
Dec
21
Over the weekend, you will have seen the further devastating news announced by the government that Kingston has moved to Tier 4 as of Sunday 20 December. All non-essential retail will have to close, including shops, hairdressers, barbers, nail bars and indoor entertainment venues. Further information can be found on... read more →
Dec
18
For our recent Member Spotlight feature, we caught up with Michael Belli, Senior Branch Manager at Nationwide on Eden Street, as he looks back on how they've adapted their services over the pandemic to continue helping their members while keeping everyone safe. "Over the three years I have worked... read more →
Dec
18
As we enter the last few weeks of an incredibly difficult year and with this week’s news about Kingston entering Tier 3 restrictions, I wanted to say a few words about resilience and the New Year. It goes without saying that Covid-19 has touched all of our lives and... read more →
Dec
16
We were delighted to have Kingston town centre featured on BBC London News on Tuesday 15 December, with our Christmas tree and lights creating a fantastic backdrop. Kingston First's Chief Executive, Kirsten Henly, discussed the impact of the impending Tier 3 restrictions on Kingston’s businesses and town centre footfall, highlighting... read more →
Dec
14
The government has confirmed today that London, including Kingston, will move to Tier 3 level restrictions at 00.01 Wednesday 16 December. This means: All hospitality venues, including pubs, restaurants and cafes will have to close from Wednesday. They can stay open for takeaway and deliveries only People can only mix... read more →
Dec
14
For our recent Member Spotlight feature, we heard from Robert O'Dowd, Chief Executive of the Rose Theatre, as they reopened their doors after lockdown and looked ahead to planned shows over the Christmas period. This piece was written before Tier 3 restrictions were announced. "The Rose is one of the... read more →
Dec
10
Kingston First launched its first ever augmented reality trail this week in Kingston town centre. The trail is based on a hidden magical market that can only be seen through the magic of augmented reality technology. Children from across the borough took part in a competition to design characters selling... read more →
Dec
07
Saturday 5 December marked Small Business Saturday in the UK. As a town centre with more than it's share of small businesses, Kingston First gave their support to the campaign by encouraging shoppers to keep it local and support small businesses heavily affected by lockdown. "Now more than ever, showing... read more →
Dec
04
Kingston First has joined forces with businesses, other Business Improvement Districts, Local Authorities, destinations and industry bodies across the country to launch the ‘Bounce Back Better’ campaign urging the government to provide extra support for retail, leisure and hospitality businesses, including extending the businesses rates holidays. Read our press release... read more →