Chippenham’s Business Improvement District (BID) team of town hosts have taken to the streets to help make the town centre safer and more welcoming for visitors and residents.
The three hosts – two full time and one part time – have been trained by the BID to ensure they are knowledgeable and passionate about Chippenham.
They are the first visible project by Chippenham BID, which was launched last November after being approved in a ballot of town centre businesses. The £365,500 a year generated from the 377 businesses included in the BID will be invested in marketing and events, as well as addressing infrastructure issues such as additional car parking and keeping the town centre clean and safe.
The town hosts wear specially designed BID uniforms, and operate in the BID area seven days a week during retail hours. As well as serving as information points for visitors, they are first-aid trained and also serve as a quick response unit to problems which may arise such as anti-social behaviour, cleanliness, and shoplifters, enhancing communication between the police and businesses, and helping to create a sense of community within the town centre.
Chippenham BID manager Carolyn Brownell said: “We are delighted to have the new town hosts out on the streets helping visitors and businesses in the BID area.
“We have chosen our hosts carefully and have ensured they are well trained and able to hit the ground running. We are confident that they will become a valued resource for people visiting and working in the town.
“It is important that BID levy payers understand that the hosts are not just there to help visitors to the town, but are there to support the business community as well, and we invite all businesses in the BID area to make themselves known to the hosts and to welcome our new team members.”
Last month the BID launched its Chippenham Connected brand which features the town’s iconic, Brunel-designed Western Arches. An app will be launched which the BID hopes will become a promotional tool for businesses, including a loyalty scheme to boost local spending.
Pictured: Chippenham BID town hosts, from left, Chris Williams, Matthew Corr and Kieran McLaughlin. Photo by Paul Gillis paulgillisphoto.com
