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Derby BIDs reveal ambitious plans to unite city centre businesses under one organisation

Derby's Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) have revealed further details of plans to merge into a single Derby BID, bringing together around 1,000 businesses across the city centre.
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Derby BIDs reveal ambitious plans to unite city centre businesses under one organisation

The proposals, which would also see the Becketwell area incorporated into the new organisation, aim to create a stronger, more coordinated approach to supporting businesses, improving the city centre and attracting more visitors to Derby.

A 24-page prospectus outlining the plans has now been distributed to 1,000 businesses across the city, following a public consultation and business survey.

The document has been developed following direct conversations with businesses, visits, workshops and briefings to identify the priorities that matter most to those operating in Derby city centre.

Among the key objectives identified were improving communication and practical support for businesses, encouraging investment and building stronger partnerships to secure additional funding.

Building on the success of Derby's existing BIDs

The prospectus also highlights the work already being carried out by the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, demonstrating the impact of their combined efforts.

According to the report, BID Rangers have completed more than 19,000 hours on duty, undertaken 23,000 business visits and recorded more than 3,200 public and ambassadorial engagements.

The Rangers play an important role in supporting local businesses, welcoming visitors and helping to address issues affecting the city centre.

Alongside their day-to-day presence, the BIDs have worked closely with Derbyshire Police, local authorities and other city partners on a range of initiatives.

These include regular crime prevention meetings and Safer Business Action Days, giving businesses direct access to police officers, PCSOs and Public Protection Officers.

The organisations have also contributed to Derby retaining its prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for 13 consecutive years, recognising the city's commitment to providing a safe and welcoming evening and night-time economy.

Other initiatives have included providing trauma kits and defibrillators, delivering CPR training and organising Community Action Group meetings to coordinate responses to homelessness, rough sleeping and persistent anti-social behaviour.

Bringing more people into Derby

Beyond business support and safety, the BIDs have also played a significant role in organising events that encourage residents and visitors to explore Derby city centre.

Popular attractions such as Jurassic Day, classic Mod scooter events, character meet-and-greets and Christmas markets have helped bring thousands of visitors into the city, supporting local shops, restaurants and other businesses.

These events have become an important part of Derby's calendar, helping to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere for families and visitors.

A united vision for Derby's future

Brad Worley, BID Manager for Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter, believes the proposed merger offers an opportunity to build on the achievements of both organisations.

"This prospectus showcases just how much we can achieve when we work together. Our Rangers have supported businesses and visitors, events have brought families into the city, and our partnership has helped businesses voice issues that matter," he said.

The proposed single Derby BID would bring the Cathedral Quarter, St Peters Quarter and Becketwell areas together under one organisation, with the aim of strengthening the city's collective voice and delivering more joined-up services.

The publication of the prospectus marks another significant step in the proposals to create a unified Business Improvement District for Derby city centre.