Better Bankside voted in for another five years

One of the country’s first Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) has been voted in for another five-year term by its businesses.

Better Bankside partners with companies and institutions within Bankside, Southwark, stretching from Blackfriars Road to London Bridge.

The not-for-profit organisation received an overwhelming vote of confidence from businesses including the Tate Modern, Borough Market and Shakespeare’s Globe during a month-long ballot.

Votes were cast by 51 per cent of Bankside businesses, with 91 per cent in favour of Better Bankside’s manifesto for the area.

The BID renewal secures £14million in investment for Bankside, which will go towards improving the area’s economy, green space and creating opportunities for the community.

Better Bankside’s mandate has grown stronger with each five-year ballot, since its inception in 2004, when 75 per cent of businesses voted in favour.

Each subsequent ballot has revealed greater support with 86 per cent of voters backing the BID in 2009, followed by 88 per cent in 2014. 

The specific programme of projects and services to be delivered by Better Bankside during its new 2025-30 term will be co-designed in partnership with its member businesses to begin on April 1.

Donald Hyslop, chairman of Better Bankside, said: “We are delighted that businesses in Bankside have once again given us this great endorsement to continue our work at Better Bankside. 

“Over the last 20 years Bankside has seen huge change and growth and is one of London’s most vibrant districts. It has also remained true to its heritage as “London’s other side” continuing to attract a diverse range of businesses, communities and visitors.”

Pictured top: Better Bankside partners with companies and institutions within Bankside, Southwark, stretching from Blackfriars Road to London Bridge (Picture: Mikey LF Lee)