The BID started in 2015 and will run for five years until 2020. A reballot will then take place. Stratford Original has now been operating for three years, growing to become an organisation offering a full programme of services, projects, initiatives and events.
As an organisaton we focus our initiatives around four theme groups. Each of our four theme groups has a chair from a local business; Safer Stratford- Carol Richards (St John’s Church), Promoting Stratford- Jessica Ziebland (Discover), Enhancing Stratford- Julian Hudson (Holiday inn Express), Doing Business- Alla Davis (Westbridge Hotel). The overall chair of Stratford Original is Graeme Bright, from Theatre Royal Stratford East.
Focusing on making Stratford a safer place for employees, shoppers and visitors is the priority this group, working together with stakeholders to address safety issues to improve the overall perception of Stratford.
The core objectives for our promoting Stratford group is to create opportunities to drive footfall to the town centre through a host of seasonal events for the community and beyond. In addition to support members with promotion and highlight the areas unique identify, encouraging visitors and residents to explore the town centre and to contribute to the local economy.
There is ongoing continuous investment and development in Stratford. It is important the town centre remains a welcoming place for everybody to enjoy. The BID have and will continue to initiate and facilitate enhancement initiatives from art installations and enhanced lighting to greening and anti-littering campaigns to make Stratford more welcoming.
Stratford has a diverse and wide range of businesses. Through Doing Business we provide a range of opportunities to help businesses cut costs and increase revenue, through joint procurement and subsidised waste and recycling rates. We also organise free networking opportunities and offer free training for our members.
Annual Report 2018