Renewal Plans 2017-2022 - High Wycombe's Business Improvement District (BID)
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High Wycombe’s Business Improvement District (BID) Renewal Plans 2017-2022
1
About this document
Contents This document contains all of the
information that you will need to
know in order to vote upon our
It is important that you
understand that you are
voting upon this proposal in
Business Improvement District its entirety and not whether
proposal.
you simply agree or disagree
About this document 1 with the basic concept.
Your town, your company, your priorities 2 Fundamentally, you should be
Working together 3 1 making a commercial decision
as to whether this proposal offers
value-for-money in return for
What is a BID? 4 Read this proposal a supplementary levy on your
document carefully. If rateable value. However, you
Working for business 5 The first five years you have any concerns, will also need to decide whether
Your questions 7 Management 16 speak to, or email, us at it offers the right balance of
HWBIDCo. practicality and aspiration to
We all want the same things 8 Offer 18 support the economic fortunes
of High Wycombe town centre
Statement from the Chair of the Board 9 Keeping businesses... 20 and, more importantly, for your
The area that we cover 10 individual business.
Commercial space 22
The challenges that we face 11 Changing perceptions 24
We’ve built a solid foundation 2 5
over five years 12
You are the person that Return your voting papers
Reasons to vote yes 14 will be sent voting papers. within the allocated
If you are not the person timescale to ensure that
The costs of voting no 15 with the authority to vote, your vote is counted.
The first five years See right find out who is and make
sure they have access to
Brunel Shed – major project 26 BID renewal themes this information.
Consultation and feedback 28 1. Well managed 32
Research 31 2. Busy 34
3. Thriving businesses 36
BID renewal theme
Financial five year forecast
See right
40 4. Well represented 38 3 4
Measuring performance 41 Check to ensure that Make sure that you
your company receives vote in a way that will
Frogmoor Garden - major project 42 the voting papers so it benefit your business
has the opportunity to – the implications are
BID rules 44 use its vote. far wider than just your
individual levy.
2 3
Your town Working together
Your company
Your priorities Every business needs to
consider the impact that
As part of a Business Improvement
District (BID), you have the
opportunity to control your
over which you, as the business
community, will want an influence.
their trading environment The Town Centre Master-plan,
has on their customers and trading environment outside your
by necessity, is disruptive, High
front door. You have someone to
their potential profitability. Street access is under scrutiny,
First and foremost, HWBIDCo Where possible, we work manage it on your behalf, that is
Working alone or in isolation we have yet to reach consensus
Ltd is an independent, not- in partnership with local accountable to you. You also have
you cannot influence a collective budget available to
on a long-stay parking strategy
for-profit, organisation. stakeholders, organisations and and the Charter Market remains
anything. make those changes.
Fiercely so. We are business- individuals. To ensure that we commercially vulnerable. You have
are accountable, we operate a
led and democratically We have been open about the fact neither the time nor the access
number of individual sector and that there is still plenty more to do to attend these working groups.
elected by those who pay
operational groups answerable in the town. Nothing stands still We do, on your behalf. Only by
business rates in High to a formal Board of Directors,
Wycombe town centre. We and new debates are emerging working with us will your influence
comprising businesses and local grow and mature.
deliver work of added-value stakeholders.
that would not otherwise be
delivered by anyone else,
especially the public sector. For the last five years, since
receiving our mandate from local
businesses in 2012, we have been
HWBIDCO delivering tangible improvements
HAS SECURED in the town centre and lobbying on
behalf of the business community.
ALMOST
£150,000 IN
EXTERNAL
FUNDING
Rejuvenating the Wye with Chiltern Rangers CIC
“From a Bucks New University perspective, with our High
Wycombe Campus located in the heart of the town, it is
very important to have a voice on town matters through
our representation on the HWBIDCo Board. We have
collectively been able to influence decisions around
improved services, the look and upkeep of the town centre
and the inclusion of events which have brought more life
and vitality to the older parts of the town. It’s not just about
the day-to-day but having a vision for the future which
keeps the university and town working together for the
benefit of all.”
Frogfest 2016
Ruth Gunstone, Director of Student Services Bucks New University
4 5
What is a BID? Working for business
A Business Improvement District, or BID, is a partnership in which “With a yes vote in We are inclusive. We are accountable. We are capable.
businesses make a collective contribution to improve their commercial the ballot, HWBIDCo As everybody pays through a You as the business community There is no doubt that we can
area. Everybody pays on a fair and equitable basis, based upon the
rateable value of their premises. Additional money is secured through
will build on what has formal levy system, everybody elect our Board of Directors, who deliver upon our promises.
already been achieved pays on the same basis, gets the sign off each annual business plan Business ownership of the BID
the public sector, through voluntary contributions and revenue that the
same influence on how the town and everything in-between. This will ensure that this delivery truly
BID Company can raise itself. The money is ring-fenced to be spent in High Wycombe
is managed, and free-loading is could be sector-based seats at the represents the aspirations of you,
on activities that are agreed by the business community (through this Town Centre, making eliminated. table or a collective of dynamic the business community.
proposal). Everything that the BID Company does must be additional to
a positive and lasting individuals with the town’s best
that which would normally be provided through the public sector. This
difference.” interests at heart.
is assured through a formal Service Level Agreement. With guaranteed
funding comes guaranteed project delivery. With a formal mandate and Andrew Norton, Eden Centre Director
a representative structure, comes delegated authority from the public
sector and an ability to contribute to, and influence local decision-
making.
The Board will After five years
Businesses Businesses If there is a
oversee delivery of the BID Company
contribute to, vote on whether positive majority
the business plan must seek
influence and this business local businesses
as an independent, reaffirmation
agree a five-year plan is adopted will elect a
not-for-profit through another
business plan formally Board of Directors
company independent ballot
Hi Magazine
Window vinyl in Frogmoor
Spring 2015
6 7
Your questions
If I receive a discount on my business rates, Am I ever likely to get a return on my BID
do I need to pay the levy? levy payments?
The supplementary levy is charged on rateable value Those business that choose to engage and get
and not on the business rates that you pay. The levy will involved should find it quite easy to benefit from the
be collected in the normal way by the District Council direct services offered by the BID. Normally these
and handed over in its entirety to the BID Company. will be worth more than the levy payment, at least for
The same enforcement powers are available to ensure the smaller businesses. We need to work with you to
that everybody pays. Most charities, who receive
be able to measure the impact on annual savings or
mainstream relief accept that they will be liable for
increase in turnover.
this levy on the basis that the BID company is there to
improve their trading environment.
Is your renewal guaranteed, regardless of
If the renewal is unsuccessful, will the how we, as small businesses, choose to vote?
Council not just continue with the things that The independent ballot is just that, independent.
you do anyway? We can campaign and set out our aspirations but
the result is dependent upon a range of factors from
whether you choose to vote and if you do, whether you
It is unlikely that the Council would be able to ring-
vote with your heart or your head. We are not a default
fence the level of budget that is currently available to
option. It’s simple. If we don’t receive a majority then
the BID company. As all of our activity is of “added-
we close. Oh, and we require two different majorities,
value”, in line with the regulations, much of our work
just to make it more difficult – one in number and one
would not be eligible for mainstream Council funding
in equivalent rateable value.
and as such would disappear.
Can the BID be truly independent and
business-led?
The BID is currently independent and business-led. “HWBIDCo has been great for me as they
Over the last five years, local business interest and have saved me money on my cardboard as
investment of time has increased as more and more
businesses see the benefits. We actively encourage
well as the energy costs for my business.
everyone to get involved in the way that best suits They have also helped me to advertise
their business. my service to other local businesses. The
return in savings, added to the support we
receive, is far greater than the actual levy
that we pay.”
Bapander Singh Khaneja, Owner Go Cartridges
Wycombe
Harvest 2012
8 9
“We want to enable a High Wycombe Statement from the
town centre that is busy, well Chair of the Board
represented, managed effectively
and that allows businesses to thrive.” It becomes obvious, fairly quickly, to anyone who
has been closely involved in the work of a Business
Improvement District (BID) company that the first five
years are about finding out what works locally and what
can be delivered using best practice from elsewhere.
The BID Team will quickly become more experienced
in planning maintenance regimes for projects, so
We all want the same things: that they withstand the wear and tear of a busy town.
Local politics will also play a part in what people and
• the wider town centre to • our public spaces to have a organisations find acceptable.
experience the hustle and bustle quality of maintenance and
of the busiest areas, so that they management that befits our In short, successful delivery of a BID first Term rests on
complement each other; own standards, so that we don’t the Board, and the Team, understanding the possible
worry what is outside our front and building confidence to challenge that which is
• independent businesses to
door; deemed impossible.
be able to afford to build a
customer base over time, so that • our night-time economy to Those involved at HWBIDCo will readily admit that we
they flourish for the long-term; flourish as trends and venues have learnt a lot. High Wycombe can be a challenging
change, so that our town is “alive place where people have high expectations but where Andrew Norton
• new development and master-
after five”; they also struggle to come together collectively for
planning to respect the day-
the greater good. We have proved we are a force
to-day needs of an active town • business views to be
for change but sometimes this has taken a bit of
centre, so that we minimise represented robustly in every persuasion!
disruption to trading; aspect of town centre life, so that
we maximise our influence over We deliver a janitorial role well, but have not let that
the decision-making process. define us as a company. We have been both innovative
and creative, in so much as the town has allowed us to
push those boundaries. We have, undeniably, made
a difference but with the purpose of creating a solid
foundation for the next five-year stint.
Our only agenda is to see this town fulfil its potential.
Our mission is to create enough of a momentum that
the thought of this town without a BID would seem
inconceivable. No one can doubt our efforts over the
last five years. Ultimately, you get to decide whether
these efforts have been worthwhile. We trust you to
make the right decision.
Andrew Norton
Chair of HWBIDCo
10 11
The area that we cover The challenges that we face
Strategic context Businesses in High Wycombe face some strong challenges in
• The definition of the BID Area is the next few years:
strongly linked to the strategic • Delivery of the Town Centre Master-plan will continue in the
context of the town centre. Desborough area. As the public sector makes investment choices as
• The on-going master-planning to which areas of the town receive the next phase of improvements,
scheme, plus individual business interests will need to be represented by an independent
commercial and residential Desborough body acting on their behalf;
Road
developments, mean that • Some key development sites, dormant for a number of years, will
Frogmoor
the town is going to change become active. These include the Westbourne Street area, Collins
significantly in the next five House and the Gas Works site in Desborough, and various parts of
years. Eden Castle Street and the Easton Street area, Whilst additional residential
• The BID is proactive in development and commercial space is desirable, it needs to be
High Street
managing change, pressuring suitable for the local area and business concerns need to be reflected
the public sector to deliver Easton Street in the planning process;
Bucks New
in a manner sympathetic to University
• Development in the Westbourne Street area of Desborough will
local business. We make sure cause a review of the long-stay parking provision for the town
business views are represented centre. Employees of businesses in the town centre are likely to find
in all relevant planning it more expensive to drive to work. This means that businesses will
applications within our Area. want support in negotiating a suitable long-stay parking strategy
We push for the highest on- that considers both local employment and sustained local authority
going maintenance standards These roads are included in the BID income;
possible. In short, we stand up
Abbey Way (part) Denmark Street Octagon Arcade/Court • The High Street will change as new access arrangements are
for you and your interests.
Amersham Hill (part) Desborough Road Oxford Road (part) negotiated with the County Council. This will affect business
Bellfield Road (part) Dovecot Road Oxford Street deliveries, the Charter Market and late night customer parking.
Bridge Street Easton Street (part) Paul’s Row Businesses will need to retain an advocate to ensure that negotiations
Bull Lane Eden Place Priory Road (part)
represent their interests in the best way possible;
Castle Street Eden Walk Queen Alexandra Road
Chilterns Shopping Centre Eden Walk Gallery Queen Victoria Road • Policing strategy is evolving and will require greater partnership
Church Square Frogmoor Queens Square
working with key stakeholders. An independent body is required to
Church Street High Street St Mary’s Street
Cornmarket Lily’s Walk Union Parade
maintain the momentum of the current business security partnership,
Corporation Street Mendy Street White Hart Street as there can be no public sector involvement in initiatives such as the
Crendon Street Newland(s) Street collective banning scheme for persistent offenders;
Crown Lane Newlands Meadow
• The pace of change in the night-time economy has increased with new
venues arriving, established venues changing hands and the late-
evening culture finding new centres of gravity. An independent body
“The BID company employ a Town Ranger to liaise with that can promote, support and bring together collective interests for
members across their BID Area and to carry out other the benefit of the town as a whole has to be a positive;
duties linked to security in the town, making good use of • Town centres must continue to find new ways to compete
the digital radio system that they introduced. They are commercially, requiring businesses to be more innovative in drawing
also instrumental is sustaining the town’s Purple Flag in customers. The 2017 Business Rates revaluation and the expiry of
long-term commercial leases for nationals will make this harder. An
which they support by their delivery of Frogfest and the
independent body that can act in a holistic manner will be a significant
Christmas Lights events that bring many, many, people benefit, especially when surrounding large centres all have BIDs or are
into High Wycombe and boost the night time economy.” considering new ones.
Cedric Booles, Landlord Rose and Crown
12 13
Brunel Shed Heritage Mural
We’ve built a solid foundation
over five years
Five years is not that long to build
a company from scratch and to
gain the trust of almost six hundred
different stakeholders. We
deliberately set out to prioritise
our delivery on-the-ground
and to build strong foundations
for initiatives like the business
security partnership. In the
process, we have sought to grow
a recognisable brand identity that
defines who and what we are, and
that builds that trust. This proposal
is your opportunity to reap the
benefits of all of this hard work for
the next five years.
The BID company has worked
extensively with the Association
of Town and City Management
(ATCM) to establish a strong
corporate governance. This
means that we have the policies,
processes and qualifications to
gain accreditation and approval for
a number of our activities. It also
means that we have established
the trust to deliver them on behalf
of others.
It also means that we have established, and invested in, the following:
“As an HWBIDCo member, our business has built up an
• A robust event management plan document that allows us to deliver
major town centre events. We also hold the premises license for the
exceptional knowledge of what is actually happening
public spaces; in the town through their communications network.
• An ever-expanding waste collection initiative for over 100 businesses,
Business Week 2017 was without doubt another great
using a cost-effective electric vehicle; opportunity for us to address key stakeholders about
• An approved business security partnership that comprises Thames
the on-going challenges in the town. It was well thought
Valley Police approved intelligence-sharing agreements, digital radio out, it allowed us to have our questions answered
infrastructure, Ofcom licenses and tried and tested policies; and enabled us to build on-going relationships with
• A good working relationship with the local authority planning and appropriate officers of the Council and the Police.”
highways teams to allow us to influence applications, proposals and Mark Harry, Managing Director Allied International Risk Management
maintenance works.
14 15
Reasons to vote yes The costs of voting no
Security Partnership we can negotiate free planning
advice and offer marketing
We reduce bad behaviour,
opportunities. We can be your
limit the activity of persistent
best friend.
offenders and reduce your stock
loss.
Reduced Business Costs
You have an accredited
partnership linked to other We collect your waste cardboard
regional groups. We provide weekly so you don’t have to
your security radios, manage the worry about it.
intelligence-sharing system, issue
Unless you are in one of the two
collective bans, provide physical
shopping centres, you can sign –
support through our Town Ranger
up to our scheme, flat-pack your
and own all the communication
cardboard waste and leave it
infrastructure and licenses.
outside your premises for us to
collect using our electric vehicle.
Green Projects Simple. This saves you time and
money, often in excess of your BID
We provide the flowers and have
levy.
transformed two high profile
spaces. Business Representation
You get hanging baskets town- Support for Your Staff
Your views and concerns get fed
wide, seasonal planting in giant direct to the relevant individual We give your staff new skills that
pots and on railings and pro-active at Councils, Police and other will benefit your business. Environmental legislation hinders Council weed-killing capabilities
maintenance of pollinator plants in stakeholders.
two key green spaces by the station We provide no nonsense practical
and in Frogmoor. We manage your We attend all relevant consultation training courses for you and The costs of a “NO” vote go wider
entry to Chilterns in Bloom and meetings about highway works, your staff to meet legislative than just stopping the project work
have even built a 60 square-metre crime, planning, master-planning, requirements and to make your that we do and the improvements
temporary garden in the past. everything and, where possible business more robust. We’ve that we make. Our valuable
submit formal written comments. put on everything from visual lobbying and representative
We use our experience, our merchandising to safeguarding in role (often unseen) would also
Town Centre Events knowledge and our understanding order to create a legion of super- cease, leaving the business
We bring thousands into the to ensure you are an important employees. community without influence…
town centre with our two major consideration. Not many businesses would
annual events and we support Positive Promotion necessarily be aware that we have
two emerging festivals that use attended planning committee
Bespoke Business Support of the Town
your venues. to speak against harmful
We allow you to concentrate on We promote your town and your planning applications. Not many
Frogfest and the Christmas Lights running your business whilst we businesses across most media. businesses will remember that we
Switch On are our events and deal with the peripheral stuff We continue to build the extra secured £75,000 of Community
increase footfall by almost 700%
If you have a challenge with opportunities for you to promote Infrastructure Levy payments from
compared to average days. We have
trading in the town centre your business that include our the District Council to support
also put on BIG Screen events and
we can provide you with resident’s magazine, presence at the upgraded maintenance of the
Food Festivals. We are supporting
useful contacts and guide you events, high street banners and historic High Street. We were also
new festivals to grow with
through Council processes, sharing across social media. instrumental in driving some quick
knowledge and seed-corn funding.
win repairs in the public realm.
16 17
THE FIRST FIVE YEARS
Management
We have: We have received
• Built a new fit-for-purpose recognition from:
business security partnership
that now has over 55 active
• The Association of Town and
City Management (ATCM),
750+
members, sharing intelligence shortlisted for Best BID 2014 FLORAL
across our region and issuing
collective bans for persistent
and Best Night-Time Economy
Management 2014; DISPLAYS
offenders in the day-time and
• The National Association of
night-time economies;
Business Crime Partnerships
We said: • Facilitated active groups such (NABCP) who have awarded our
as Shop Watch and Pub Watch to security initiative a distinction
“The nuts-and-bolts of the co-ordinate sector interests; grade since 2013;
town must work seamlessly • Invested in a future-proof digital • Purple Flag, retaining our
so that we exceed visitor radio communication network, accreditation since 2011;
“Both the flowering baskets and allowing businesses to talk
expectations. We must be • Chilterns in Bloom as Silver
the large pink flower pots that direct to CCTV and Thames
Award BID Area 2015, Silver Gilt
cleaner, greener and safer Valley Police officers;
have been out throughout the town in 2016 and Best in Category
than people expect and
are beautiful. It certainly makes • Employed a Town Ranger to be 2016.
more savvy about using the out and about as our eyes and
the town centre feel cared for and
infrastructure in the town.” ears and as an extra resource for
colourful!” your protection and information;
Councillor Lesley Clarke OBE
• Implemented a town-wide
85% hanging basket contract that
saw hanging baskets placed
INCREASE IN in peripheral areas for the first
time as part of 33% overall
SHOP WATCH increase;
MEMBERSHIP • Regenerated, and maintained,
two key neglected plots at
gateways into the town centre
with pollinator-friendly planting
“Pub Watch keeps a handle on our concerns as night-time alongside seasonal installations;
venues and has the ability to put police, licensing, CCTV and • Contributed to the regeneration
other officers in front of us once a month. HWBIDCo deals of the River Wye adjacent to the
Wycombe Swan and supported
with all of this so that we don’t have to. As venue managers
the changes to Pauls Row;
we strive to run safe businesses for the people of High
• Cleaned grot-spots, hot-spots,
Wycombe and this is helped dramatically by HWBIDCo with
business outside and rear
their regular courses available to keep staff up to date and spaces and removed chewing
continuous schemes to help aid all High Wycombe venues in gum from major public
running safe night time economy businesses.” thoroughfares, bio-protecting all
of them in the process;
Matt Young, Manager O’Neills
Gum Removal Church Street18 19
THE FIRST FIVE YEARS
Offer
We said: We have:
• Developed a robust and trusted • Delivered three food festivals • Delivered one medieval May
“Visitors to the town must mechanism for delivering town and one street food festival in Fayre to support the annual
centre events that has become the town centre during our first Weighing-In Ceremony for the
want to return time and established as an exemplar Term, including artisan food Mayor;
time again. Employees must Event Management Plan; stalls, demonstration kitchens
• Built, and trialled, a temporary
want to work here and enjoy • Established a new annual music and street food dining;
60m2 garden in Frogmoor;
the town outside of work. and cultural festival for the town • Delivered two Wimbledon
• Supported the growth of two
This will only happen if we (Frogfest) attracting in excess BIG Screen events on “Super
embryonic new festivals for
of 3,500 people to this one-day Saturday”, in partnership with
can entertain, inspire and event; the national Big Tennis Weekend
Wycombe, Wycombe Fringe
and Fish Eye Film;
challenge people throughout • Revamped the annual Christmas initiative;
the year.” • Supported a number of other
Lights Switch-On event, • Trialled one open-air BIG
organisations in building robust
extending the lighting display, Screen Film Sunday, showing
event management plans;
adding street performers and a three diverse films – a children’s
street food market to attract over favourite, a old classic linking • Contributed to the development
6,000 people to this evening to the Youth Theatre production, of the Wycombe Heritage and
event; and a cult classic; Arts Trust (WHAT).
15
MAJOR
EVENTS
45,000+
PEOPLE
ATTRACTED
Wimbledon Super Saturday INTO TOWN
on the BIG Screen20 21
THE FIRST FIVE YEARS
Keeping businesses...
We said: Business We have:
Week Leaders • Created a weekly waste
“Businesses need more Forum 2017 cardboard collection service
support to balance with our electric buggy, used by
over 100 small businesses in the
the books, raise their BID Area;
profile and to attract new
• Delivered a substantial
business. If we start with subsidised training programme
an aspiration to save many for local employees including
businesses more money both statutory and added-value
courses;
than the cost of the levy
• Worked with a utility broker to
that they will pay, our support businesses in making
business support activity substantial savings on their
should find many takers.” annual bills;
• Worked extensively with
individual businesses, already
trading in the BID Area, to
350+ evaluate opportunities for café
HOURS OF 300 TONNES seating, to navigate planning
SUBSIDISED OF WASTE and licensing obligations;
• Created Business Week to
TRAINING CARDBOARD co-ordinate stakeholder
DELIVERED COLLECTED consultations and offer free
business training sessions for
BID Area businesses.
“Step In staff have attended
many of the HWBIDCo
training days.We have found
their training sessions to be
highly useful and lead by
experienced and professional
trainers. They gave my
staff knowledge, a better
understanding of the subjects
needed to carry out their job
role at Step In and a formal
qualification. Thank you
HWBIDCo for continuing to
Street-Food event Pauls Row 2015 provide an excellent service”
Hazel Howe, Step In Domicillary Care Ltd22 23
THE FIRST FIVE YEARS
Commercial space
We said:
“The town must address the
issue of empty commercial
units head-on. There are too
many in total and too many
in prominent locations of the
town to simply let the market,
or remote landlords, decide
their future.”
46
START-UP
IDEAS
We have:
• Refurbished a long-term empty sign-posting useful third party
commercial space as a short- contacts;
£32,000+ term business incubator unit,
welcoming more than 15 tenants,
• Conducted regular audits of
empty commercial property
RAISED IN before returning it to the market;
and, where possible, sought
CROWD- • Worked with over forty business
start-up ideas to evaluate
to assess any barriers to re-
occupancy;
FUNDING business proposals and to test
those who were ready for a town
• Pressured landlords to
TOWARDS centre space;
proactively market empty
landmark buildings, including
ENTERPRISE • Worked with specific individual
businesses to source and
the creation of an 18m mural to
promote the Brunel Shed;
HQ secure commercial premises
• Worked with the District Council
in the town centre, offering
to support tenants starting up
Lobbying to fill this fantastic (where appropriate) free
in units that they have brought
space inside the Brunel Shed pre-app planning advice and
back to the market.24 25
THE FIRST FIVE YEARS
Changing perceptions
We said: We have:
• Created a town-focussed,
“Local and visitor publication that delivers
positive news stories to 50,000
perceptions of the town are
households and enables local
not as positive as they could businesses to reach new
be. Intelligent promotion of customers;
the town through mainstream • Established sustained social
media and social media media channels using
Facebook, Twitter, You Tube and
must be more proactive, SoundCloud, building a growing
more effective and more following year-on-year;
consistent.” • Challenged established
perceptions within social media
groups;
• Launched an Aspiration
document in Summer 2016,
300K consulting on expectations for
the town centre;
MAGAZINES • Built an effective web presence
Manor Farm Junior
School “Design Your
DELIVERED that combines materials for
different audiences and hosts
recognition and retention of our
communication materials; Town” Days 2016
TO LOCAL a large amount of corporate
governance content;
• Delivered extensive multi-media
HOUSEHOLDS • Established a strong corporate
PR campaigns around individual
events or activities;
BIG Screen Film Sunday 2015
brand that sets us apart from • Worked closely with the Press
the public sector and increases to increase the opportunities for
positive press releases;
EIGHT
• Supported the work of
AWARDS
Wycombe Sound, as the local
community radio station to
increase the radio coverage of
the town;
• Delivered outreach projects
to raise the profile of the town
centre, including mentoring
Young Enterprise and setting
Primary School projects;
• Attended committees and met
regularly with elected members
to put forward a business
perspective on issues being
discussed.26 27
Brunel shed – major project
Installing an 18m mural on the front of the listed Brunel Shed, adjacent
to the station, was always going to be a challenge. With the help of many,
many volunteers, Chiltern Rangers CIC and Dan Wilson, a talented local
artist, we pulled it off. If only regenerating and letting the space was as
simple. Nevertheless, our project greatly improved a key gateway into
the town centre and was the catalyst to significant investor interest.28 29
Consultation and feedback
Accountability is a key principal for HWBIDCo. We are Independent Communication Exercise 2016
business-led through our Board of Directors and its
77 formal interviews (14% sample size) were
scrutiny sub-group, Finance and Governance, as well
conducted with a cross-section of businesses in the
as taking guidance from specific sector or geographic
BID Area. These deliberately included those who are
trader groups.
known to object to the BID, as well as those who are
Our continuous mechanisms for consultation, known to be supportive. In addition, a further 100
and feedback, include our regular e-newsletter informal conversations were conducted with those
to a signed-up database of local businesses and receiving the regular cardboard collection service
stakeholders, regular surveys through Survey Monkey (18%). The summary results were as follows:
and monthly sector meetings.
Our time-specific consultation exercises have
included a formal communication exercise led by 80% of respondents wanted regular
an independent third party in 2016, Business Week communication on town centre issues,
January 2017 and publication of a formal Aspiration preferably through an e-newsletter;
document, seeking feedback on key principals for the
town centre. The next two pages set out the feedback Businesses were keen for the BID to
received. address parking.
“They could do something about car
“Sometimes good consultation is not about parking charges… staff have to park in
Business Week 2017 Regular Consultations
presenting new ideas and proposals, it is the streets or outside Wycombe. Our
just about listening and providing mutual shift workers have to wait for spaces A series of consultation meetings were held during In addition to face-to-face conversations at
before they can park to come into Business Week in January 2017 to provide businesses meetings, we have regularly used Survey Monkey
respect for a different opinion. For the BID, with the opportunity to discuss concerns and questionnaires to allow individuals to express
work... This is a wasted opportunity
the challenge of effective communication aspirations, with stakeholders, about the decisions opinions in private and anonymously. These
when there’s plenty of spare capacity in
is not our own ability to communicate but the town.”
they are making on town centre issues. Meeting topics include Board Members as well as sector group
the willingness of the other party to engage. included crime and anti-social behaviour, highway membership such as Pub Watch and Shop Watch.
“To work with Eden Centre and the works and transport, and a new Business Leader’s More directly, but for a more specific audience,
There are no golden rules. For some, it
Council to sort out parking in the town Forum where a cross-section of dynamic businesses we have worked with our Community Radio
might simply be a chat over a beer, for were personally invited to discuss their aspirations for station, Wycombe Sound, to broadcast discursive
– I know there are plans to address
others, it is about evidence of due process. the future of the town. This latter session was chaired interviews about the BID and its work and to
this. All other towns have offered free,
What this means in reality is that we deliver independently by the Pro-Vice Chancellor of Bucks host a live “debate” about the proposal to renew
discounted or cheap parking. There is New University. Feedback was as follows: our mandate for a second Term. Feedback has
the same message in a hundred different 50% free capacity in some car parks. included:
ways…” If staff can park cheaply that would be • Business Leaders considered that a working
50% revenue rather than 0%.” group should implement a review of the business
model for the Charter Market; 80% of business respondents to an on-
Oliver O’Dell, Chief Executive HWBIDCo Ltd
70% of businesses wanted to see • Businesses wanted to see real progress on the line survey stated that a promotion and
more people from the BID out-and- ability to deal with street drinking and begging; marketing role should feature strongly in
about which stressed the importance our renewal proposal
• Whilst businesses could see the long-term
of the Town Ranger and Cardboard
benefits of the master-plan, there was real
Collection operative who comprise our 100% of Shop Watch members saw the
concern about the impact of roadworks on sales
Street Team. for small businesses; ability of the group to deal effectively
with persistent offenders and share
• Business Leaders saw a greater improvement in
intelligence as vital for the security of the
the look and feel of the town as being crucial to its
town
economic improvement.30 31
Consultation and feedback Research
The Aspiration document, published by HWBIDCo Some of the headlines are provided below: The BID Team worked closely with the Association
in 2016, examined the town’s approach to certain of Town and City Management (ATCM) to create a
principles. It questioned consumer behaviour and resource to support young BIDs in their First Term on
how the different stakeholders interact with the town developing strong corporate governance.
as a whole. It examined approaches to food and • 85% of respondents wanted more The BID Team also visited BIDs who had
eating, greenery in the town centre and the future independents in High Wycombe town demonstrated good practice in this respect. These
of the Charter Market. It also sought feedback on centre included the established BIDs at Fitzrovia, Worcester
events and activity in the town and perceptions of
and Shrewsbury. Other visits examined project work
empty property and its impact on business start- • 77% of respondents thought that there and included Lincoln and Mansfield.
ups. This feedback was extremely useful in shaping was not a good connection between
conversations about the BID Renewal proposal This resulted in detailed “corporate governance”
Eden and the rest of the town
and conversations between key stakeholders. 130 folders being created for Board members.
formal responses to the survey were received from • 94% of respondents thought that The BID Team takes a keen interest in the BID industry
businesses and residents. Although not statistically events benefited local people and and considered over 55 other BID proposals in
significant, it provides a unique snapshot of opinion. the writing of this document to evaluate common
businesses
practices, the merits of different layouts and
• 64% of respondents thought that the testimony.
majority of people don’t like High
Wycombe
• 57% of respondents thought that
a lack of consumer demand for
businesses reduced the demand for
empty commercial space
• 87% of respondents thought that the
town centre should be greener
If we achieve a Second Term
we plan to launch a follow-
up document pushing for a
dedicated economic action plan
for the town centre that can sit
INK OF
TH
comfortably alongside the town
centre master-plan.
YO
HAT YOU
UR TOW
W
N
S
TELL U32 33
BID renewal theme 1 Well managed
Our objectives Deep-cleaning high
1. To agree key areas of street grime
concern for cleanliness and
environmental management
in the BID Area and to find a
sustainable means of bringing
these up to standard with
responsible party’s agreement;
2. To work with businesses and
enforcement agencies to
remove as many opportunities
as possible for individuals to
offend or commit anti-social
behaviour within the BID Area;
3. To act upon aspirations
for a greener town in key
parts of the BID Area whilst
maintaining standard seasonal
planting projects;
4. To work with the Charter
Market and District Council
How we will deliver them How we will measure our
Pauls Row Street Food event 2015 impact
to raise the quality of the 1. Introduce comprehensive
offer and to introduce, more Spring and Graduation cleans • Utilise photographic evidence
regularly, artisan or specialist in the BID Area, supplemented and customer/business
Well Managed
traders at key times of the year. by targeted remedial cleans feedback from surveys and
Consultation with businesses has strongly reinforced “TVP has always had a good working of street furniture and café sector/geographic meetings;
the fact that day-to-day life in High Wycombe relationship with HWBIDCo, focussing on seating areas plus gum
• Record extensive key
town centre can be a challenge. Whilst significant removal;
improvements have been made over the last five
projects that contribute to making the town performance indicators (KPIs)
enjoyable and, more importantly, safe for 2. Implement more challenges for the Business Security
years, these efforts need to be sustained, and in some
through the Business Security Partnership and monitor
cases intensified. local residents and visitors. The BID adds
Partnership to known enforcement action taken by
Business security remains important to nationals and value to the wider partnership within which individuals, and those who third parties;
independents, with both citing the need to continue we work, providing not only extra resources travel to disrupt the town, so as
• Consult on business model
to curtail activities within and outside their stores. but also, in many cases, grassroots to further limit their activities;
options for the Market with
It’s not just shoplifting and stock loss, its anti-social
funding.” 3. Plant seasonally and all interested parties and
behaviour outside that is seen or experienced by
Sgt James Hoskin, Thames Valley Police intelligently through implement some trials.
their customers.
community groups and trusted
Views were also expressed that the town must further
address its environmental quality. Even more clean,
£318,500 contractors and consider
installations of greater impact;
more green and better maintained, to include the new
elements of the master-plan.
OVER 4. Work to develop alternative
In essence, on-going high-quality, effective,
5 YEARS business models for the
Charter Market, perhaps with
management over and above a statutory requirement greater BID management
of the local authority. input.34 35
BID renewal theme 2 Busy
Our objectives
1. To continue to evolve the two
established major annual
events for the town and to
assess the opportunities for a
calendar of one-off activities
that can forge joint event links
with Eden;
2. To actively support the growth
of third party festivals that
have a relevance to the town
centre and that look to use
the public spaces and venues
creatively to attract additional
footfall;
3. To build additional momentum
behind the growth in the
Frogfest 2016 in evening and night-time
the High Street economy, with the aspiration
How we will deliver them How we will measure our
to secure the on-going success
of areas that contain a high 1. Plan, deliver and evolve impact
Busy proportion of night-time uses, Frogfest and Christmas Lights • Review event coverage, footage
Businesses want us to increase the activity in the town “Having worked as independent traders in such as Pauls Row; Switch On events in-house and and social media feedback, and
centre, to drive footfall where we can and to deliver work with Eden to deliver joint uplifts in social media following;
the town for eighteen years, we have seen 4. To act upon opportunities
strong campaigns. promotions;
the difference that HWBIDCo has made to to showcase the town at • Collate information on activities
Obviously, in a diverse town centre, this is not just critical times of the year, 2. Strengthen links with, and taking place in venues
the town. It’s cleaner, brighter and has well
about focussing on the retail offer, but also about the such as Graduation Week provide seed-corn funding and source feedback from
organised events that have encouraged and University Open Days or for, Wycombe Fringe and Fish performers, attendees and
services available, the integration of new residential
developments and the evening and night-time new festival ideas to spring up, such as Festival Month in May; Eye Film, encouraging them venues themselves;
economy. Wycombe Fringe.” to organise activities inside
5. To share as many positive • Retention of Purple Flag
appropriate town venues;
Whilst we’ve developed an agreed, and trusted, Matt and Claire Billsborough, Ruby Moon messages as possible each accreditation and feedback from
approach to the delivery of major events, it is also month through all available 3. Develop a “live after five”, awarding body;
about maximising the persona of the town during key media channels. or similar, concept to build
• Feedback from, and partnership
periods of the year. Hospitality businesses benefit upon the town’s Purple Flag
work with, Pub Watch;
significantly from additional customers during events. accreditation;
As proof, pub revenues increased by 700% over a • Feedback from the public;
4. Ensure that the town is
comparative Sunday during Frogfest in May 2016. “dressed” positively at key • Media coverage, PR content,
However, Graduation Week and Open Days at the
university are a particular opportunity that is, as yet,
£584,500 times through the use of
lighting, bunting, planting or
printed materials distributed,
uplift in social media following.
untapped in terms of the presentation of the town. OVER other means;
Busy also has to apply to communication about the
town. Social media, marketing materials, printed
5 YEARS 5. Deliver a comprehensive
communication plan that is
matter, press and radio coverage. We need to promote audience appropriate and
a town of which everyone wants to be a part. builds a sustained following.36 37
BID renewal theme 3 Thriving businesses
Our objectives
1. To act as a concierge service
for businesses in the town,
with the ability to provide
signposting support, to enable
desired activity, wherever
possible, and to champion
business causes;
2. To offer a programme of
business support that seeks
to up-skill employees and to
reduce business overheads,
wherever possible;
3. To contribute to the debate
about long-stay employee
parking and other business
travel plan issues, intervening
to seek to diminish adverse
How we will measure our
impacts of development on
business, where appropriate.
impact
Thriving Businesses • Use CRM system to track £241,000
“From my business perspective, HWBIDCo How we will deliver them business support activities;
Running a high street business is tough, whether you
are a national brand or a small independent. You need have offered several practical services. 1. Employ a dedicated business • Measure commercial income
OVER
help with some of the things that you can control, let
alone those that you cannot, which sit outside your
They spend their budget, where possible, liaison role to maximise from events, PR initiatives
such as Hi Magazine and other
5 YEARS
on local companies so I have been able engagement between the BID
front door. and business community so marketing opportunities;
to provide a significant amount of print that concerns get addressed
We have plenty of economic aspirations, alongside • Monitor Key Performance
the more mundane janitorial role that underpins some
for them over the last five years. In and are able to influence Indicators for specific initiatives
of what we do. If we can find the right balance of addition, they have reduced our waste by strategic policy; such as training and cardboard
advice, money-saving and proactive support for you recycling our cardboard. We have created 2. Provide subsidised training collection;
then BID Area status will become a distinct advantage. a cardboard bin in our car park that is courses, collect waste • Monitor impact of parking
used not only by my business, but several cardboard weekly and fill initiative and if appropriate,
gaps in provision of business number of individual employees
of those adjacent too. Thirdly, we have
support locally as directed by who benefit.
made savings on core services through the Board;
recommendations on insurance and their 3. Work with the District
utility brokerage scheme which is a great Council to find consensus on
way of small businesses saving money ” a long-stay parking strategy
Steve Little, Proprietor, Blue Print and Design for the town centre and
allocate resources to ease its
introduction to the business
community.38 39
BID renewal theme 4 Well represented
Our objectives
1. To represent collective
business and commercial
interests in the town centre
in respect of all strategic and
policy debates, planning and
development and operational
decisions;
2. To represent individual
business and commercial
interests where they contribute
to the greater good of the town
and are not detrimental to any
other business.
3. To play a key role in the
agreement of solutions
for known operational
shortcomings in the town
centre, using our added-value
to share responsibility, where
appropriate.
How we will deliver this How we will measure our
impact
1. Ensure we are included in all
relevant multiagency working 1. Identify those groups with
groups concerning the town which we could add-value
Well Represented centre. but in which we are not yet
included;
Put simply, we attend the meetings that you cannot, “This town needs someone who cares 2. Continue to host a regular
2. Monitor actions that are
or for which you do not have time. We submit formal about the little things, about the day-to- “small projects group”
responses that air your concerns, that support your meeting with relevant initiated by the “small
day issues that people face and who can projects group” and that are
interests and we challenge those proposals that we operational officers from
think do not.
talk to the powers-that-be on their behalf. planning and estates at the successfully delivered;
Businesses are lucky that HWBIDCo District Council. 3. Monitor progress with new
As a business in a town centre location, there are so
many policies and debates that happen, over which as
provides this resource and I believe 3. Seek to expand our calendar policy or process-driven
an individual, you do not have control. Yet they impact we should support and protect it. As a of formal presentations to initiatives.
right outside your front door. It might be about access company, they are always willing to talk committees of statutory bodies;
for deliveries. It might be about maintenance of the and we have had some interesting chats 4. Draw up a list of policy or
public spaces. It might be about the begging that
live on air.” process-driven gaps that
takes place outside your shopfront.
Pippa Sawyer, Director Wycombe Sound
negatively affect the way in
We go to Council committees and talk to elected which the town operates;
members who make decisions. We submit formal
5. Create means of working that
planning responses. We attend regular working group
fill these gaps and seek to make
meetings. We make witness statements to the Police. If
them part of formal policy.
you don’t, you need us to do this on your behalf.40 41
Financial five year forecast Measuring performance
Year One Year Two Year Three Year Four Year Five
(2017-2018) (2018-2019) (2019-2020) (2020-2021) (2021-2022)
Income
BID Levy* 292,338 292,338 292,338 292,338 292,338 1,461,690
Revenue Generation 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 75,000
Voluntary Contributions 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 120,000
Carry Forward Funds 15,000 15,000
Total 346,338 331,338 331,338 331,338 331,338 1,671,690
Expenditure
Busy 118,900 118,900 118,900 118,900 108,900 584,500
Well Managed 65,700 65,700 65,700 65,700 55,700 318,500
Thriving Businesses 50,200 50,200 50,200 50,200 40,200 241,000
Operating Costs** 90,600 90,600 90,600 90,600 90,600 453,000
BID renewal costs Term 3 30,000 30,000
Total 325,400 325,400 325,400 325,400 325,400 1,627,000
Contingency*** 20,938 5,938 5,938 5,938 5,938 44,690
*BID Levy calculated at 95% collection **Operating Costs include levy collection costs of £8000 p.a. (3% of annual BID levy)
***Contingency is calculated at approximately 2% of total income
Income additional to the Levy Planned expenditure over five years by
The BID has sought to act with as much commercial theme (see pages 32 to 39)
acumen as possible in order to generate its own
revenue, alongside the levy. As an example, HWBIDCo Accountability for the BID is paramount. Transparency is expected.
owns all of the digital security radio infrastructure Confidence and trust in delivery is crucial. Each year we issue performance infographics with
which raises a revenue from additional users Contingency the annual bills. Each year we publish an Annual
We have proven beyond doubt that we can deliver
outside of the BID Area. The service provided to 2% a business plan, on time, within budget and to a Report. A number of our projects come with their
BID businesses is therefore cost-neutral. Voluntary high standard. We have proven that we can meet own Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Many of
contributions derive predominantly from a good Operating costs the exacting standards of organisations such as the our documents are available to download from our
Busy
working relationship with the District Council where National Association of Business Crime Partnerships website.
they provide funding and we provide management 27% 36% (NABCP), who audit our business security work. If we are successful in achieving a second BID Term,
time and expertise.
We have put in place a level of corporate governance we will look to pursue formal BIDs Accreditation
that provides reassurance to the Board. In part, this through British BIDs, one of the recognised trade
Overheads Thriving is based on a commitment to due-diligence in our bodies in our industry.
The percentage allocation to overheads is slightly Businesses research and a way of working that demands an
more than would be expected but this is heavily 15% Well-managed audit trail to support our decision-making. Our Board
influenced by the fact that the BID Team delivers a receives a quarterly dashboard report. Our Finance
majority of projects in-house, saving over £50k in
20%
and Governance group scrutinises our financial
potential support fees. This necessitates appropriate planning and strategic direction.
insurance and subscriptions, which come at a cost that
might otherwise be attributed to project expenditure.42 43
Frogmoor garden
major project
For years, there has been a great debate about
the future of the Frogmoor area. Historically it
used to be a green space. The changing nature
of the town centre meant that it became more
utilitarian over the years. HWBIDCo decided to
test the idea for a temporary garden in a way that
brought the community together. From an initial
idea using cardboards boxes, to commissioning
prisoners at a prison in Bucks to build the
structure and students at BCA to plant it out, this
project was a real journey. The finished garden
was amazing and transformed the use of the
space in the spring and summer. The legacy
proved to be raised vegetable beds at Disraeli
Primary School.44 45
BID rules
In preparing the rules
that will apply to this BID,
Governance
6 In the case of empty properties, the BID levy will be collected at
100% from either the owner or leaseholder (if an occupational
Baseline Agreement
consideration was given 1 HWBIDCo Ltd (a not-for-profit organisation) will be the “BID
body”. Existing governance arrangements will apply;
lease exists)
The High Wycombe BID will be
careful to ensure that all BID
to the 2017 Industry
Criteria and Guidance
Notes for BIDs, produced
2 The BID Board will primarily be made up of representatives from
levy paying businesses, who will be elected annually, with the
7 Wycombe District Council will be responsible for the collection,
and enforcement, of the levy.
projects and services will be
completely additional to those
services already delivered by
process advertised to all levy payers. Additional members may be
by British BIDs. co-opted, as required. Nominated representatives from statutory Finances the District Council, the County
Council and Thames Valley Police.
agencies will be considered;
3 Each year the Board will elect a Chair, who shall be a business
representative;
1 The average budgeted annual levy income available to be spent
by the BID is £292,338, assuming an average collection rate of 95%
in any one year;
Following a successful BID ballot, a
Baseline Services Agreement will
be developed and overseen by
4 2
An Operating Agreement, which includes the District Council’s The BID will seek to source income and funding that is additional the BID Board. The Agreement will
baseline service commitments will be in place from the to levy income. This will comprise revenue streams from its include the following services:
commencement of the BID Term. A draft can be found on our own activities, voluntary contributions, grant funding and some • Closed Circuit Television
website. This will include the partnership arrangements governing devolved budgets; (CCTV)
operational service level agreements;
3 Operating costs of the BID are estimated at 27% of total • Community Safety Partnership
5 The BID Board will have responsibility for financial arrangements, expenditure (see note page 40), which we will seek to reduce by work
contractual obligations, human resources, standards and raising the total amount of additional income generated • Licensing and Statutory Street
compliance and strategic direction. It will advise on operational Enforcement
issues, oversee performance and act as the primary consultative • Charter Market Contract
The Ballot • Street Lighting
body on BID services;
1 Electoral Reform Services will implement the independent ballot • Seasonal Lighting
6 Notice of the intention to hold a ballot was provided to the
Secretary of State on 22nd February 2017.
and will send a ballot paper to those responsible for hereditaments
that will be subject to the BID ballot, in accordance with BID
• Street Cleansing
• Waste Collection
Regulations 2004. • Gully Cleansing
The Levy • Graffiti and Fly Posting Removal
1 The number of hereditaments liable for the levy is estimated at
654;
2 Each hereditament subject to the BID levy will be entitled to one
vote in respect of the BID Proposal in a postal ballot which will
commence on 5th June 2017 and close at 5pm on 4th July 2017.
• Public Conveniences
• Planning
• Trading Standards
2 The levy rate to be paid by each hereditament is calculated as
1% of its rateable value as at the selected “chargeable day” (1st
Ballot papers received after 5pm on 4th July will not be counted; • Environmental Health
October annually);
3 In order for the BID Proposal to be successful at ballot, the result
will need to meet, as a minimum, two independent criteria which
• Park and Ride
• Car Parking
3 Hereditaments less than £2,500 will not be charged a levy. No
one business shall pay more than 5% of the total possible BID
levy within the BID Area or 25% more than the second highest
are:
• Of those ballots returned by the close, those voting in favour
• Highway Management and
Maintenance
• Trees and Landscape
must exceed those voting against it;
levy contributor. This will apply throughout the five-year proposal • Grounds Maintenance
and will take account of any new development. No other general • Of those ballot papers returned by the close, the total rateable
The SLA will also allow for
concessions will be given. value of those properties or hereditaments which vote in
negotiated delegation of
favour, must exceed the total of those voting against;
4 Those hereditaments within a serviced shopping centre, paying an
annual service charge, will be liable for a reduced levy of 0.75% of
rateable value; 4 The result will be announced as soon as practically possible after
the close of the ballot;
responsibilities from the
public sector, accompanied
by a devolved budget where
appropriate, for those activities
5 The levy will be charged annually in advance for each chargeable
period, from October to September for five years. No refunds will
be given but some ancillary BID rules will apply to those vacating
5 If successful at ballot, the BID will continue into its second full
Term, for a period of five years to 2022.
that would benefit from a more
direct association with the BID
company.
their hereditaments during an individual chargeable period.You can also read
