Enhancing the Town Centre for customers and businesses
Wandsworth Town centre will become a Business Improvement District (BID) in April next year after local firms voted for plans which aim to boost trade and tackle key local issues.
Eligible businesses in the town centre were asked to vote on whether to implement wide-ranging business plans for their BID areas, which will be funded by the businesses themselves through a 'modest' levy. 73 per cent voted yes to become a BID.
Wandsworth Council business spokesperson Kim Caddy said, “This is a great result for Wandsworth Town Centre. Local businesses will now have more influence over the trading environment they know so well and will be better placed to respond to challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.
“I look forward to working with them and to seeing businesses in both areas reap the rewards as their ambitious plans come into action.”
Steve Pinto, CEO at the Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce, said, “Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce is delighted to see a successful outcome to Wandsworth BID ballot.
"We are strong advocates for this BID and look forward in continuing to be a strong voice for local businesses. Our aim is to ensure business interests are always at the forefront, as opportunities develop for Wandsworth Town.”
The business plans for each BID were developed through months of consultation and engagement with the affected traders.
The Wandsworth Town BID will focus on:
Building the town’s identity and distinctiveness
Raising awareness of what the town has on offer, including an online presence and full events calendar
Enhancing the town centre experience for shoppers, visitors and workers
Creating stronger connections between businesses and the local communities
Representing business needs with a stronger, shared voice
Over the coming weeks new BID companies will be developed to deliver the plans, led by representatives from the local business community. The BIDs will become operational on 1 April.
Find out more or get in touch at wandsworthbid.co.uk
December 7, 2016