The Chamber was formed in 1947 from the Chamber of Trade which dated back to at least 1922. It is voluntarily run by business people from industrial, business and professional, retail and service sectors of the town. It is the only recognised independent body representing the business community.

In 2004, after consultation with our membership we decided to continue independently rather than join Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, as it was felt that we could represent our members more beneficially by being based in the town.

We present a cup to the winner of the Hobby Horse Festival annually and also provide a cup for the Banbury in Bloom competition, which Banbury Town Council presents. In 2006 we launched a ‘cleanest school competition’ to raise local children’s awareness of their environment.

WHAT THE CHAMBER HAS CAMPAIGNED FOR

• Pedestrianisation of High Street

• CCTV – initially the chamber were the driving force behind this scheme and when it started , it was the most up to date in the country

• M40 Investment Partnership

• Dualling of Hennef Way

• Local Development Plan

• Banbury’s Integrated Transport Study

• Christmas Light Displays

• Banbury in Bloom