Northampton town centre Business Improvement District (BID) was first launched in 2011 and then renewed in October 2015 . A BID is a defined area where the rate-paying businesses decide on improvements to their area, they then vote on the plans and agree to invest in the delivery of activities which directly impact upon their business turnover and profit. The aim of the BID 2015-2020 is 'To develop the town into a quality destination with a clear identity, which provides opportunities for premium retail niches, specialists and independents, which respects and nurtures its professional services, celebrates its attractive, diverse leisure and cultural offer, builds upon the town’s heritage and looks to the future.’ Resident businesses pay a levy each year which is pooled into a collective pot and worth around £1.5million over five years. It is this pot of funding which is used to deliver the BID events, initiatives and projects in line with the BID Business Plan and Objectives. 1. To develop, build awareness and promote, locally and regionally, the identity of Northampton town centre and the strengths of its different business sectors: retail and health and beauty, culture and leisure and professional services. 2. To create a sense of ‘place’ for visitors and people working in the town centre to enjoy. 3. To encourage growth, development and investment of businesses which complement and build on the strengths of Northampton town centre We encourage all businesses to take an active interest in determining priorities and planning projects to meet the aims of the BID plan. If you would like to attend any of our sub-groups or have suggestions for future BID projects then please get in touch with Mark Mullen, BID Operations Manager on info@northamptonbid.co.uk and 01604 837766.