Agenda item

A joint presentation was conducted by Jacqueline Ford (Economic Development Manager, Buckinghamshire Council), Margaret McCarthy (Globe Business Park BID Manager) and Melanie Williams (CEO of HWBIDCo), to provide information regarding the ballot activities for two Business Improvement Districts (BID) that would take place during the summer within the High Wycombe Town area. One such BID that was be proposed to be created was on the Cressex Business Park whilst HWBIDCo covering the town centre was a ballot to secure a third five-year term.  Subject to successful yes votes at the ballots in July, both BIDs would begin from the 1 October 2022.

Following the presentation that set out information of key achievements for both BIDs and the focus of their business plans for 2022-2027, Members wholeheartedly agreed that the plans for both BIDs going forward would be of immense value and that these had the full support of Members of the Committee.

Cllr Green enquired as to how the public could be made more aware of the businesses operating from Cressex providing more opportunity to buy locally. It was confirmed by the presenting officer that work was underway to ensure that all businesses were recorded and maintained on an interactive map was being developed and this would be available for all to view on a new website for the business park.

 Cllr Thomas asked regarding the work of the security guards and bouncers within the Pubwatch scheme within the HW bid, and the manner in which they dealt with customers which occasionally proved to be threatening. He emphasised that whilst anti- social behaviour would not be tolerated, this needed to be balanced with keeping all resident safe. The presenting officer stated that relevant training needs and requirements for such staff was being given.

Cllr Thomas also asked about the investing in employee’s theme for Cressex and asked if this would include apprenticeships and other activities to help develop young people skill sets for the future.  Margaret McCarthy stated that she worked as an Enterprise Advisor for Globe Business Park and that they would look to replicate this approach on Cressex so as to be able to engage the right stakeholders with the right businesses to enable this.

A further question related to the intention to provide any planned events within Cressex in light of the forthcoming Platinum Jubilee celebrations and Mayoral weigh in. This was seen to be an ideal opportunity to showcase the potential of Cressex Business Park and it was hoped that celebratory events could be brought together with the help of businesses and the Council. It was confirmed that the matter would be explored with the steering group as soon as possible.

A Member noted that HWBIDCo covered a small area of the town – but that it benefited a much bigger geography and was keen to see how messaging could be shared to encourage people from the wider town and neighbouring areas to promote the good things that were happening and encourage further footfall. Melanie Williams noted that would continue to be worked on under the My Wycombe communications planning.

RESOLVED: That the presenters be thanked for their useful updates and that the endorsement of both BIDs be recorded in the upcoming report to Cabinet.