A new business improvement district (BID) will launch at Sunderland’s seafront in May after 91% of local traders voted in favour, the BBC reports. The Sunderland Seafront BID will cover the Roker and Seaburn area and aims to replicate the success of the existing Sunderland BID, which has run in the city centre since 2014.
The scheme will be funded through a levy on eligible business rate payers, matched by an annual grant from Sunderland City Council. Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland BID, will also lead the new seafront initiative, and said: “We are absolutely thrilled that businesses in 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 and that we can replicate the success that we have had in the city centre along our beautiful coastline.”
Councillor Kevin Johnston, who oversees housing, regeneration and business, called the result “brilliant news for the seafront and the city.” Organisers say the BID will fund marketing to attract more visitors, invest in public spaces and facilities, and give local businesses more chances to collaborate on events, with local traders encouraged to get involved as the initiative gets under way.
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