A senior council officer was all abuzz this morning (Thursday) as he saddled up and hit the long road to the continent.
Hounslow Council’s director of regeneration, economic development and environment Brendon Walsh was flanked by Brentford FC mascots Buzz Bee and Buzzette as he posed on his bike in front of City Hall.
A quick photograph later and he was headed off in the direction of Cannes for a six day cycle ride to MIPIM, the world’s biggest regeneration and property conference .
Once again, as in previous years, Hounslow is seeking to promote itself to companies looking to invest in projects of interest.
The Brentford bees were there to represent one scheme in particular for backers to get on board with; the new community stadium project for Lionel Road.
Having successfully gained approval from the council planning department and the Mayor of London’s office , the 20,000 seater stadium only requires backing from Secretary of State Eric Pickles before it begins construction this summer.
Also wishing Mr Walsh bon voyage was Heather Cheesebrough, the assistant director for strategic planning and regeneration. She posed on an instantly recognisable Brompton bicycle to help promote the company which has been manufacturing the famous folding bikes in Brentford for more than 20 years.
Mr Walsh, who is also cycling to raise funds for children’s charity Coram, said: “I cycled to MIPIM last year. I know just how tough it is going to be, but it’s worth the pain for the gain for the charity and of course to make sure Hounslow is the number one regeneration destination in London.”
Councillor Colin Ellar, deputy leader of Hounslow Council, who is also going to MIPIM but not by bike, said: “We are going to MIPIM to showcase Hounslow and promote the prime sites across our borough which are ripe for business development and homes.
“Hounslow has a growing reputation as a place to invest in - we are already home to blue chip companies such as BSkyB and Glaxo Smith Kline, we have great schools, a low unemployment rate and we are cutting council tax again this year.”
The Hounslow delegation’s costs of attending the conference have been covered by sponsorship from the Council’s existing regeneration partners.
