A successful first year of activities has been reported by Christchurch Business Improvement District (BID).

The business funded, not-for-profit organisation has a five-year mandate to enhance and support the business community through events, improvement projects and other business focused initiatives.

Businesses in the town centre and Bargates have benefited from several initiatives over the past year.

They include events such as the Jubilee Tea Party, a one day pop up Arts by The Sea Festival, the Yuletide Festival and regular street music throughout the summer.

There were also free Sunday Yoga sessions on Christchurch Quay that ran from May to September and the Christchurch Pancake Race which all increased footfall into the town.

Investment into the High Street included restoration of the historic Blue Plaques, assisting with the design and upcoming installation of new wayfinding totems in partnership with BCP Council and increased numbers of flower baskets in spring and summer.

Augmented reality shop trails provided via the Loyal Free app were also popular as well as the recent Christmas wreath competition.

Christchurch BID also lobbied on behalf of BID district businesses about utility costs and worked closely with BCP Council regarding ongoing road works around the town.

Town safety was targeted with the BID liaising with law enforcement agencies with a clear objective of improving not only safety for the visitors to Christchurch but also for business owners operating in the area.

Tim Lloyd, BID Board Voluntary Director, pictured left, said: “From inception to final realisation in November 2021, the creation of the Christchurch BID has been an ongoing labour of love for many in the town who have shown their support for its development.

“The work that the BID has carried out in its first year has really had a positive impact on not just the business owners in the BID district but Christchurch town centre as a community.

“We are looking forward to continuing our plans in 2023.”

Christina Pengelly, Manager of Christchurch BID, pictured right, said: “We are thrilled to have been able to make such a positive impact on the community.

“We could not have done it without the support of our member businesses and the community.

“Exciting plans are already taking shape for 2023 and we look forward to continuing to build on our year one successes.”

• Main pictures by James Bridle.
• christchurchbid.co.uk