FIRMS in Canterbury have responded well to the idea of re-forming the city's chamber of commerce.

James Cross, chairman of the former chamber, said he had written to every person on the old database inviting them to join the new group.

"The first indications are very positive," Mr Cross said. "The subscription is substantially reduced because the chamber will limit its activities to lobbying with the local authority, giving a voice to businesses in the area and to organising networking events.

"We won't be offering the full range of services offered by the British Chambers of Commerce, but so far people in Canterbury have said that is what they want."

Mr Cross said the type of activity the re-formed chamber would take part in would include commenting and appealing against the district plan and the county council's structure plan and representing businesses on the various partnerships in the city.

It would also lobby for improved road and rail links, better parking and traffic management in Canterbury and keeping full services at Kent and Canterbury Hospital.

"The people who have responded have been universally in favour of the proposals but it is early days yet," Mr Cross said. "Canterbury council welcomes this development."

Mr Cross has sent application forms to every person on the chamber's former database and is now waiting to see how many people renew membership or join.