CREATING a city centre where businesses of “all shapes and sizes can develop and thrive”, that is the plan for the future of Colchester.

The city’s Business Improvement District has set out its business plan for the next five years, as it aims to continue to improve the city centre.

The BID said it has been “working tirelessly” over the past five years to deliver projects and initiatives for Colchester.

And with the upcoming ballot on the horizon, it’s setting out plans for the next five... should it get voted in again.

The BID has outlined four strategic pillars as it aims to create what it describes as a memorable, forward-thinking, safe and welcoming and connected city.

Ideas put forward include evolving Colchester’s festive offering, creating better accessibility and signage, continuing to support leisure businesses and the night time economy and bringing back its “Indie Vision”.

Business manager Sam Good said: “In May 2020 we launched our first Indie Vision which focused on investment in supporting our independent sector.

“Since its formation, we have secured more than £350,000 into this vision.

“Indie Vision 2.0 will elevate these plans to ensure the wants and needs which have evolved in the last two years are being noted and invested in.”

Mr Good continued: “As we move towards a new and exciting five year term, the BID has adopted its new direction.

“Our next five years will focus on supporting Colchester city centre to be a place where businesses of all shapes and sizes can develop and thrive.

“The BID is the vehicle that is going to continue to drive investment into the city centre and ensure businesses are at the forefront of voices and input on changes.

“It has led the city on reopening and is working to help bring footfall back.

“Colchester BID is also key to the long-term recovery of the city following Covid.

“If the BID does not achieve a majority vote, we would cease to exist from October 1.”

Colchester Council will send those eligible to be subject to the BID a ballot paper prior to June 23.

Each property will be entitled to one vote on whether to keep the BID going forward.

It is a 28-day postal ballot which will close at 5pm on July 20.

If successful, the new BID will commence delivery of services on October 1 and will continue for another five years.