Croydon BIDs for success

A blueprint for the successful BID process, which has flourished in a number of districts in the Big Apple, is being drawn up to make Croydon town centre a commercial powerhouse.

The BID process involves companies combining to adopt a number of initiatives to help firms in a chosen district prosper.

A ballot is planned for early next year when all businesses within the BID area will vote to decide whether they want to adopt the initiatives.

If they decide to approve the scheme, then all companies within that area will be required to pay a one per cent levy on their business rates to help subsidise the plans.

Business support group Croydon Business, which is heading the campaign, targeted the town centre as the first BID area.

However, it says if it proves successful the scheme could spread to other parts of the borough.

Donna Wardle, BID project manager, is eager to get the wheels in motion. So far, she says she has been encouraged by the response from businesses in the town centre: "The businesses we have spoken to have been impressed with the scheme and have shown a willingness to be involved with a Business Improvement District.

"The businesses have highlighted a number of areas which could be improved, including making Croydon more welcoming, promoting a safer environment, ensuring cleaner streets and communicating a better image."

The process to develop the BID scheme is already well under way with a board of 11 members. Representatives from the Whitgift Centre, Allders and Centrale are in place to ensure that all firms who fall under the BID's boundaries are fully involved in the scheme's initiatives.

Mrs Wardle added: "The function of the board is to ensure the BID process operates smoothly. We are now continuing with the consultation process and the plan is to communicate with all businesses affected by the BID scheme to find out what they really want."

To find out more about BID call 020 8686 2233.