The next five years represent “an unmissable opportunity” to breathe new life back into Northampton town centre and cement its place as a great place to live, work and shop, according to the newly-elected co-chair of the Business Improvement District.
Kerry Reynolds was voted in to help oversee Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District’s (BID) ambitious plans to revitalise the town’s fortunes as it embarks on a new five year term.
Kerry, who is Area Director for Metro Bank, based in Abington Street, has been a director on the BID Board since 2018, takes her new role as Co-Chair as the new BID starts its third five-year term.
She explains that now is the time to inject a renewed sense of optimism, pride and purpose in the town as we emerge from the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns.
She added: “We are starting to see the economy open back up after an incredibly difficult period and this is a key point in both our immediate and long-term futures.
“People are looking forward to getting back out in our town centre and supporting their favourite businesses and that enthusiasm, coupled with the exciting investment plans detailed in the Northampton Forward and Towns Fund proposals, represents an unmissable opportunity to really make a difference to Northampton.
“It’s an exceptional place to do business with a community that cares deeply about the town. We want to channel that passion and give businesses and residents a town centre to truly be proud of.
“Through a business-led programme of investment, we will continue to work with all stakeholders to define, develop and promote the identity of Northampton town centre which reflects its strengths, characteristics and heritage and is a sustainable and vibrant place which generates pride for its businesses, local residents, and visitors.”
Kerry will serve as Co-Chair, working alongside Andrea Smith from Franklins Solicitors LLP.
Andrea, who is a partner in the firm and Head of Business Services, said: “Kerry is hugely talented and I’m very excited to be working alongside such a well-reputed local business leader.
“We have a lot of work to do post-pandemic and I can’t wait to get started with Kerry and the rest of the BID team.”
Mark Mullen, Northampton BID operations manager, said: “We’re hugely excited to welcome Kerry to the team and hear her ideas and vision for Northampton. Her passion stood out and we can’t wait to unveil some of the plans we have in store.
“We would also like to thank Brendan Bruder from Abbey Ross who Kerry is replacing as co-chair. His support and contribution over the course of his tenure was unwavering and we’re grateful that he will remain as a Board Director.
“We know the last 12 months have been challenging for many businesses but as an organisation we are committed to making our town centre thrive. Northampton has so much to offer and we want to showcase to residents the brilliant businesses and facilities they have on their doorstep.”
In March 2021, businesses voted in favour of renewing the BID for five more years until 2026, securing a significant £1.5 million to be spent on promoting the area.
Businesses pay an annual levy into a collective pot which is used to deliver the BID events, initiatives and projects in line with the BID Business Plan.
The Board is governed by local business people who all give up their time as Board directors on a voluntary basis to help steer the project delivery in line with the BID Business Plan.
