Colchester BID Manager Vinnie Geaves recently sat down with Keep Colchester Cool to discuss the future of Colchester city centre.
Born and raised in Colchester, Vinnie has strong connections to the city. Having worked across local businesses, the leisure industry and law enforcement, he joined Colchester BID in 2022 before becoming BID Manager in 2024.
Now, he's helping to shape the future of Colchester city centre, working alongside businesses to create a place that people want to visit, explore and enjoy.
Making Colchester a Better Place for Everyone
With more than 500 levy-paying businesses, Colchester Business Improvement District (BID) plays an important role in promoting and improving the city centre.
From supporting local businesses and organising events to improving safety and encouraging more visitors, the BID's work is centred around one key goal: making Colchester a thriving destination.
"It's about activating a city," Vinnie explains. "Making sure it's attractive, it's clean, it's got a superb offering, it's safe."
Since becoming BID Manager, Vinnie has placed a particular focus on how Colchester is promoted, recognising that the city has plenty to offer but that not everyone knows about it.
Changing Perceptions of Colchester City Centre
One of the biggest challenges facing Colchester is the difference between how people perceive the city centre and what's actually happening within it.
From new independent businesses and restaurants to live music, events and cultural experiences, there's always something happening in Colchester.
However, Vinnie acknowledges that negative perceptions can sometimes overshadow the positives.
"I think there's a massive gap," he says.
Rather than dismissing concerns around transport, parking or safety, Vinnie believes it's important to listen to residents and businesses, understand their experiences and identify opportunities for improvement.
At the same time, showcasing everything that Colchester has to offer remains a key priority.
Supporting Colchester's Independent Businesses
One of Colchester's greatest strengths is its mix of well-known national retailers and independent businesses.
From Crouch Street to Isaac's Walk and Eld Lane, the city is home to a fantastic variety of independent shops, cafés and businesses, each contributing to Colchester's unique character.
Vinnie believes that national retailers and independent businesses work together to create a thriving city centre, with each encouraging people to visit and explore.
The BID also provides practical support to local businesses, helping with everyday challenges, offering promotional opportunities and connecting business owners with organisations that can provide additional guidance.
And this support isn't limited to levy-paying businesses. Smaller independents can become a Friend of the BID, giving them access to the same support and promotional opportunities.
"But we don't ignore our independents. They are important because they have really good, valid feedback," Vinnie explains.
Bringing Colchester to Life Through Culture and Entertainment
While shopping remains an important part of the city centre, Vinnie believes Colchester's future is about offering visitors much more than retail alone.
Restaurants, cafés, live music, theatre, entertainment and cultural events all play an important role in creating a vibrant destination.
"We've got to protect what we've got," he says. "It's about bringing back local talent, mentoring, coaching and getting these people in front of crowds, because people love entertainment."
Vinnie also highlights the changing evening economy, with more people choosing to enjoy meals, entertainment and social activities earlier in the evening.
The BID continues to support Colchester's hospitality and entertainment venues through initiatives including Purple Flag, which recognises safe and welcoming evening destinations. Colchester has retained this accreditation for a fourth year.
Ultimately, it's about giving people more reasons to visit the city centre and encouraging them to stay longer.
Looking Ahead to Colchester's Future
As Colchester continues to evolve, so does the BID's vision for the city.
With its current business plan running until 2028, Vinnie is exploring opportunities to extend the BID's boundaries to include additional areas and businesses.
Potential locations include North Station Road and the area surrounding Leisure World and Charter Hall, although no decisions have been made.
The focus remains on ensuring businesses benefit from the BID's work and that Colchester continues to grow as an attractive place to visit, work and spend time.
Celebrating the Businesses That Make Colchester Special
The conversation also turned to the Colchester Business Awards, which recognise the businesses and people making a difference across the city.
With more than 13,000 people taking part in the public vote, compared with just under 6,000 at the previous awards, it's clear that Colchester residents are passionate about supporting their local businesses.
For Vinnie, the awards are about more than winning. They're an opportunity for businesses to see just how much they're valued by their customers and the wider community.
"The night itself will be a massive celebration," he says.
And there's certainly plenty to celebrate.
From independent shops and restaurants to national retailers, cultural venues and local entrepreneurs, it's the people and businesses of Colchester that make the city what it is.
Want to discover more of what Colchester has to offer? Explore the latest local businesses, events, places to eat and things to do right here on InColchester.