A business improvement district in Sunderland city centre is to be extended to include the area’s seafront.
Businesses in the area voted by 90.9% of the area’s rateable value to set up the Seafront BID, which will be funded by the existing Sunderland BID team and begin operations on May 1.
It’s hoped the new organisation will improve the look and feel of Sunderland’s seafront and boost business. It follows the success of the existing city centre BID, which has brought an estimated £13m to the local economy along with bringing around 440,000 visitors into the city.
Sharon Appleby, chief executive of both BIDs, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the businesses in both Roker and Seaburn have recognised the value that a BID can bring to the area.
“They have shown that they have confidence in the benefits that a BID can bring and that we can replicate the success that we have had in the city centre along our beautiful coastline. We can’t wait to get started and to be able to help the seafront realise its full potential.”
Under the BID system, businesses pay a levy, which goes to help fund a range of events, safety schemes and initiatives to help shops, restaurants, professional services and other businesses thrive. Successful BIDs already operate in Newcastle and Sunderland.
As part of the new scheme, seafront businesses will be encouraged to sign up for the Sunderland Gift Card scheme. The BID team is also planning talks with businesses on ways to improve the area.
The BID is being supported by Sunderland City Council, which will match the amount of money collected via the levy from qualifying seafront businesses with an annual grant.
Coun Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for housing, regeneration and business at Sunderland City Council, said: “Seafront businesses have spoken, and they have voted in favour of the launch of a BID that will deliver significant benefits for the whole area. This is brilliant news for the seafront, its traders, and indeed the city.”
