I am proud to support the BID as it enters its second term, having significantly transformed our town into a destination for tourists through regular events and initiatives, such as vibrant floral displays and the successful food festival. These efforts have brought much-needed foot traffic to Christchurch’s town centre.

My journey as a BID director began after attending a bi-annual update, where I was inspired by the BID’s vision and plans for our community. Eager to contribute more actively, I sought a role that would allow me to influence the positive developments in Christchurch. Through this involvement, I’ve forged strong relationships with fellow local businesses, enabling us to support one another in challenging times.

Many towns across the UK have seen their sense of identity eroded over the past decade. As an independent business owner, I can see how having a BID in Christchurch has helped to foster the right environment for my business to thrive and strengthen our unique identity. It has promoted our town and helped secure visitors, ensuring a steady trade all year round. Having a strong business community who value and champion Christchurch to be a safe, welcoming and attractive place to visit and spend time in only makes things better.

I support Christchurch BID because I genuinely care about the experience people have when they visit our town. With a strong passion for tourism and hospitality, I see every day how a welcoming and well maintained town shapes guest impressions, reviews, and repeat visits. The BID brings businesses together, raises standards, and invests in making Christchurch a place people enjoy visiting and want to return to. I am proud to play a small part in supporting work that helps our town continue to thrive.

I joined Christchurch BID in August 2024 as I wanted to see how my investment in the BID was being used. Initially my knowledge around BIDs was limited, since joining, my understanding of what our BID brings to the area has expanded and I view the BID as a valuable asset to any business community. We have a dedicated operations management team and committed (levy-paying) Directors who are actively shaping our town’s future, and this can only lead to a better Christchurch for everyone.

I have been involved in the BID since its inception back in 2021, where we faced the biggest challenge, COVID-19! We found it critical to come together, pool our resources, and help one another. I believe that we are stronger together when we shop, live, and spend locally. This is an opportunity to build on the good work that has been started for the combined benefit of the town. 

I believe that collective investment in our town will continue to help ensure its future prosperity and maintain Christchurch as an attractive area of cultural beauty where people can be proud to live, work, and visit. The BID’s work is delivering real, tangible benefits to all businesses in Christchurch. Whether you’re a bustling high street shop that sees a surge in footfall during the Food Fest Local weekend, or a company that relies on local services like accountants or solicitors for HR advice, the positive ripple effect is apparent. When one business thrives, it contributes to the prosperity of the whole community, creating a stronger, more vibrant Christchurch for everyone.