WINCHESTER Business Improvement District (BID) has led the way in developing a new national alliance to improve high streets and commercial areas.

The BID has led the launch of The BID Foundation, a national body that will champion improvement and investment in towns and cities such as Winchester.

Catherine Turness, executive director of Winchester BID, said: “The BID Foundation reinforces the importance of the work of Business Improvement Districts and will help bring place management to the forefront of government agendas.

“The collective voice of UK BIDs will provide a strong voice for business and I am pleased to represent the needs of both Winchester BID members, and my fellow BID colleagues, as chair of the South of England BID group.”

Catherine Turness has been elected to the national council of The BID Foundation and was part of a leading group of 27 BIDs that developed the concept of the BID Foundation, in partnership with the sector’s professional body, the Institute of Place Management at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Andrew Cooper, CEO of Leeds BID and chairman of The BID Foundation said: “Business Improvement Districts have come together to create an independent organisation to champion the needs of front line practitioners whilst recognising the value and contribution of BIDs to our towns and cities.”

Professor Cathy Parker, chairwoman of the Institute of Place Management, added: “This is already making a big difference to the towns and cities in which BIDs are based but through The BID Foundation there is the potential to achieve much more local and national impact.”