January 2021: A new year for Norwich BID
The new year opened in a third lockdown, bringing now-familiar challenges to our levy-paying businesses, and to the BID. For all sectors, the lockdown was unwelcome but understandably necessary. Once again, we reassessed, and changed our plans for the immediate and long-term future: mitigating the twin threats of Brexit & Covid were our highest priority.
Voice for Business
Sector Recovery Planning Meetings
Following the third lockdown, we immediately consulted with our local businesses about how we can best support them, and prepare for the future. Our Sector Recovery Planning Meetings brought representatives from local organisations into one (virtual) room to discuss current challenges, and how best to shape the road to recovery.
If you’re interested in being part of these meetings or want to help set priorities, email Sonia.bright@norwichbid.co.uk
Brexit Resources
We’ve pulled together key information and takeaways for local businesses, with clear advice and resources for next steps. Visit the Brexit resources page for more.
Covid Resources
Visit our Covid resources page for information including available grants and safe workplace guidance.
Lobbying
Following feedback from our local businesses, it became clear that lobbying government was a clear priority. We continue to meet regularly with key organisations to improve the outcome for businesses, including BIDs National Councils and our local MPs. Stefan Gurney is working with colleagues at the ATCM on the proposed changes to planning laws and building classification, as well as working with Clive Lewis MP on a political response.
Upcycle Your Waste
Upcycle Your Waste continues to recruit businesses for the initial free waste audit, helping businesses save money, and work sustainably. The first European conference took place digitally on 11 February, sharing learnings from the opening year of the project.
Experience
Norwich Street Aid
The community response to rough sleeping will continue in 2021. Since launching in October 2019 in response to local businesses’ request, Street Aid has raised over £17,000, with funds going directly to those who need it the most.
Crime Reduction Scheme
We are working with local businesses, and the police, to reduce crime in Norwich. Sign up for the DISC/Alert scheme to help keep your business and the city safe.
Vacant Shops
Norwich BID has created a number of posters and vinyls to be placed in shop windows. We are also exploring possibilities to animate the spaces with art and science initiatives.
Christmas
Whilst Christmas was a more muted affair than in previous years, Norwich BID worked with local businesses and the council to create a festive feel, and increase footfall. The tree lights were lit from November through to January, creating a beautiful festive feel in the centre of the city, and the Tunnel of Light was brought back to the city centre.
Castle Projections
Two new festive projections were commissioned for the castle, funded by The Norfolk County Council Experience project through Interreg 2 Seas EU Funding. Watch one of the short films.
Promoting
Welcoming City
New signage has been installed in the city, using the City of Stories brand to create a cohesive and attractive welcome in Norwich. The 85 lamppost banners celebrate Norwich’s vibrant identity, and reinforce the City of Stories brand.
Press & PR
Norwich was featured in The Sun online and in print, promoting the city to an audience of more than 1.2million.
Seasonal Campaigns
A Valentine’s campaign celebrating Norfolk legend Jack Valentine has been created, in collaboration with key local organisations, including the Museum of Norwich and the Forum.
Partnership Campaigns
The Unexplored England campaign, which is a partnership between Norfolk & Suffolk DMO’s, and led by Visit East of England, has moved into its third phase. After being awarded £70k of funding, this campaign is focussing on keeping the region front-of-mind for summer holidays.