Colchester’s city centre is more than just a place to shop or meet friends — it’s the beating heart of our community. A place where history meets modern culture, and where independent businesses and national brands stand side by side. But what keeps this space vibrant, welcoming and future-ready? Behind the scenes, Colchester BID (Business Improvement District) is working every day to shape a city centre that works for everyone.
Here’s how Colchester BID is helping our city centre thrive:
Amplifying Colchester’s Voice: Marketing and PR That Delivers
In today’s fast-paced world, visibility is everything. Colchester BID leads the charge in promoting the city centre through its InColchester consumer brand, dedicated campaigns, and ongoing public relations activity.
- Attracting Visitors: From event promotion to spotlighting independent businesses, BID’s marketing efforts make sure Colchester stands out. Whether through city-wide campaigns or managing digital business directories and event calendars, their goal is simple: get people through the doors and onto the streets.
- Boosting the Local Economy: Every social media post, email newsletter, or press release aims to increase footfall and support local businesses. BID’s city-wide strategy supports shops, restaurants, and services of every size.
- Enhancing City Image: Through consistent, positive PR, Colchester BID nurtures civic pride while promoting Colchester as a must-visit destination - for tourists and locals alike.
Shaping Our Spaces: A Voice in Public Realm Consultation
The look, feel and function of our city centre matter. That’s why Colchester BID plays an active role in shaping its physical environment.
- Advocating for Business Needs: Whether it’s changes to transport or street layouts, BID reviews proposals to ensure they work for businesses. From loading access to customer flow, they make sure practical concerns are heard and addressed.
- Improving the Urban Fabric: The BID identifies areas for improvement and works to enhance both built and natural spaces — whether it’s better signage, improved pedestrian links, or more appealing shopfronts.
- Collaborating on Vision: BID works hand-in-hand with the council, developers and business owners to ensure the city centre evolves with a unified, community-first approach.
Supporting Small Businesses: Guidance When It Matters Most
Small businesses are the soul of Colchester — but navigating the business world isn’t always easy. That’s where Colchester BID steps in as a valuable connector.
- Access to Expertise: BID signposts business owners to specialist support from trusted partners like Colbea, who provide guidance on everything from start-up planning to funding and business rates.
- Fostering Community: Through networking events and business forums, BID encourages collaboration between local enterprises — building relationships that lead to shared success.
Tackling Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour: Championing a Safer City
Safety is vital to a thriving city centre. Colchester BID plays a key role in addressing crime and anti-social behaviour, keeping our streets secure for shoppers, businesses and visitors.
- Working in Partnership: By collaborating with Essex Police, Colchester City Council and other stakeholders, the BID supports joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and coordinated action.
- Pushing for Investment: BID champions investment in city centre safety, from increased patrols to tailored initiatives that tackle root causes.
- Driving Real Change: From vulnerability training to initiatives like the “Best Bar None” scheme, BID helps businesses protect their staff and customers while creating a more welcoming city for everyone.
- Amplifying Business Voices: Above all, the BID ensures business concerns are heard — demanding action and accountability from decision-makers.
A City Centre for Everyone
From strategic marketing to placemaking, small business support to safety and security, Colchester BID is a driving force behind the city’s success. Their work might often go unseen, but the results are all around us - in the energy of the High Street, the success of local businesses, and the pride we feel for our city.
Because when Colchester thrives, we all do.
