Published on Friday 24 September 2021
BUSINESSES across Christchurch are being asked to take part in a vote to help secure the future of the town’s trading following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Votes will be cast to determine the possible formation of the proposed Christchurch Business Improvement District in an effort to enhance the town’s offering of retail and hospitality.
It is hoped that the new venture will bring in over £600,000 over the next five years to be spent on the town centre through a variety of business-led projects.
Cllr Philip Broadhead, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Economy and Strategic Planning, said: "Christchurch is an amazing town with a beautiful high street and strong local businesses, but we’ve all seen the impact that a changing retail market coupled with the pandemic has had. The potential formation of Christchurch BID will be hugely beneficial; ensuring longevity and prosperity for Christchurch’s town centre. With the support of the levy payers we hope that this Business Improvement District will succeed, and work to strengthen the local economy and the business community."
Lucy Filer, Chair of the Christchurch BID Development Board, said: "Our objective is to make Christchurch town centre the best place for our visitors to enjoy and also for our residents and traders to live and work in.
"We have a wonderful mix of old and new, from independent boutiques to national chains, shops of every size offering a plethora of consumer goods, and restaurants, cafes and pubs which celebrate local produce and the wonderfully rich food heritage this town has to offer.
"Our aim is to allow Christchurch town centre to truly thrive after what has been a very difficult period for so many. We have a terrific community spirit, coupled with a traditional and proud heritage, and it is more critical than ever that we pull together to help one another as we move forward to achieve great things."