In October 2021, Croydon BID’s members voted overwhelmingly for their new five-year business plan.

As the town centre BID starts its fourth term, it has made a statement of intent as to deliver against its priorities.

Croydon BID has adjusted its approach, committing greater resource and investment to make the town centre safer while improving the look and feel for all those using the town centre.

Matthew Sims, Croydon BID Chief Executive said: “It is important for the town centre to get the basics right, to meet the challenges head on and together, to create opportunities for improvements that will see Croydon naturally and sustainably grow.”

While the BID remains optimistic about Croydon’s future, there are economic needs for the town centre out of their control to deliver on. However, they have developed a 12-point economic plan designed to vocalise the need for greater change from our representatives including the Mayor of Croydon.

Mr Sims said: “Together, we must consider how we can make fundamental changes to support our towns and city centres. Our economic recovery plan aims to address those including the need to reform business rates, levelling the playing field, so our high streets can enjoy future sustainable growth.”

In recent months, Croydon BID has restructured its operation, designed not only to react to challenges but put in place proactive services and initiatives to get to the very heart of the challenges facing the local economy.

Mr Sims said: “As an operation, we are ready to go and I am excited about working with partners, businesses and communities to bring about the change we need. As a team and a board of directors, we are growing so we not only have the capacity but the right skills and experience to deliver against our business plan.”

Croydon BID announced plans to deliver an on-street safety ranger team which will not only work with partners on reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, but offer greater visibility, business engagement and support to the town centre. With combined investment into police-led operations and police-led activities to support business and its intelligence operations, the hope is that together, Croydon’s business crime will reduce.

The look and feel of the town centre and the initiatives associated are under review with an aspiration to deliver a new, enhanced service for the town centre business community that delivers greater improvements, bringing about visible change, improved colour and vibrancy.

Croydon BID acknowledges the need and necessity for partners to collaborate, come together and deliver as one. Mr Sims added: “Croydon has all the ingredients to succeed. “Absolutely, it can be achieved, standing shoulder to shoulder with the fierce determination and grit we are well known for.” “Bring on the next five years, we will deliver everything we can.”

Croydon BID’s fourth term started on 1 April. Visit www.croydonbid.com to download their business plan 2022-2027.