The Letchworth BID launched its proposal and business plan to businesses from across the town centre on Wednesday ahead of the reballot next month.

In November, Letchworth businesses will decide whether they want to continue the services provided by Love Letchworth.

At Wednesday’s event, business owners were introduced to the BID’s new plan to make Letchworth ‘A 21st century Garden City’ with a ‘lively town centre which has a strong sense of identity and is recognised internationally’.

Chair and director of Letchworth BID and company director of Innventure Ltd said: “The event was a success with a lot of very positive comments and passion from businesses about the future of the town centre.

“Towns and cities across the UK are changing rapidly and we need to ensure that Letchworth does not get left behind, but takes advantage of its unique position in terms of its attractive environment, its green spaces and the strength of its people through their passion for the town.

“This plan provides us with a clear direction for a new exciting era in Letchworth,”

Within its plan, the BID is proposing three projects. The first project will include the development of a brand identity for the town centre using campaigns, loyalty schemes, annual and smaller regular events and activities and reward schemes to profile businesses.

The second project aims to create a welcoming and easily accessible environment for visitors, workers and residents, with more floral displays and better lighting and improved parking facilities and signage.

The final project area is about bringing businesses together. For this, one of the BID’s priorities is to develop an overall business offer by reducing vacant units and providing business support such as cost saving initiatives and encouraging local trading.

BID manager Patricia Saunders said: “The result of the ballot will determine whether the town centre will become a Business Improvement District in 2019 and whether or not ‘Love Letchworth’ will continue for the next five years. Please encourage your local businesses to Vote ‘yes’ for Letchworth BID.”

For a copy of the full business plan and prospectus, go to loveletchworth.com/reballot-2019-2024. BID members are welcome to ‘drop in for a coffee’ at the Love Letchworth offices on Tuesday mornings to discuss the plan with Patricia.