Supporters of the Lichfield BID celebrate the result of the ballot

The new manager of the Lichfield Business Improvement District has promised the initiative will make a real difference.

Supporters of the Lichfield BID celebrate the result of the ballot
Supporters of the Lichfield BID celebrate the result of the ballot

More than 79% of city centre companies backed the proposal for the BID last year.

It means they will pay a levy which it is hoped will generate around £1million over five years to spend on boosting footfall in the city.

Money has already been spent on street entertainers as part of the build up to Christmas, as well as ‘guardians’ to help marshal the taxi rank during New Year’s Eve.

Morag Pringle
Morag Pringle

In a newsletter to members, Lichfield BID manager Morag Pringle, said the future was looking bright.

“This is just the start of our activities and you will see much more over the course of our first year,” she said.

“These are exciting times for Lichfield, with many activities and projects planned.”

Among the initiatives being developed within the first year of the BID are:

  • Installation of free WiFi across the city centre.
  • Development of a new citywide marketing strategy
  • Support for events including the Lichfield Food Festival and Christmas Festival.
  • Development of new parking initiatives.
  • An upgrade of the StoreNet radio system.
  • Introduction of City Guardians during busy periods.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.