The Shadow Board overseeing the potential BID has published a first set of developing priorities after speaking with firms across the town centre and Old Town.
The project is understood to be about halfway through its consultation phase. The Growth Hub’s door-to-door survey, indicates that more than 65 percent of businesses spoken to so far answered either “definitely yes” or “yes” when asked if they would support a BID.
Recurring concerns include safety, the public perception of Swindon town centre and the desire for more activity, reflecting themes highlighted in an earlier feasibility study by The Means.
The Shadow Board has identified four priority areas based on the feedback received to date.
Many businesses say safety and anti-social behaviour remain key issues. The team developing the BID will look at options for additional security presence, closer coordination with police and enforcement teams and improved systems for reporting incidents. These ideas are at an early stage and will be shaped further through continued consultation.
Several respondents say Swindon lacks a clear identity and needs more cohesive marketing. Suggestions being explored include coordinated promotional campaigns, improved digital presence and marketing efforts designed to increase footfall and champion local businesses.
The need for more events in the town centre has also been raised frequently. Old Town’s established events programme was cited by businesses as a model. The Shadow Board will consider whether an expanded programme of events and community activities could be delivered in partnership with existing groups, including the Old Town Business Association. No specific proposals have been drafted.
Consultation also shows interest in support for businesses, including training opportunities, joint procurement schemes and wellbeing initiatives. These are similar to services offered in other BID areas, though any local programme is still being worked on.
Shadow Board Chair Laura James said:
“The feedback we are receiving from businesses has been consistent. They want to see improvements that increase confidence, attract more people and make the town feel safer.
These emerging priorities reflect what we have been told so far, and our role now is to translate that into a business plan that delivers clear value for levy payers.”
Kris Talikowski, Vice-Chair of the Shadow Board and Chair of the Old Town Business Association, said:
“This stage is about building something credible and grounded in what businesses actually need. Safety, visibility and activity come up time and again in the consultation.
The next step is to shape practical proposals under each priority and continue testing them with businesses across the town centre and, subject to the Old Town poll, in Old Town as well.”
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said:
“It is encouraging to see such a clear set of priorities emerging from the business community. The Shadow Board is leading this work, and the council will continue to support them as the proposal takes shape.
These priorities reflect the issues businesses raise with us regularly, and the developing BID provides a framework to address them collectively.”
The Shadow Board says consultation will continue over the coming weeks, including targeted engagement north of the railway line and further sessions with specific business sectors. A full draft business plan is expected later in the process.
More information is available at www.swindonbid.co.uk
