Here’s what other Truro businesses think about the Totally Truro BID scheme
Beverley Williams, Commercial Manager of Store Operations at Marks and Spencer, Lemon Quay, 'Marks and Spencer are keen supporters of the BID principle & are active participants in more than 20 locations across England and Wales. As a long-term contributor to town centre management projects, Marks and Spencer recognises the values that can be realised through this type this type of cross-sector team working and it is our hope that Truro becomes another location that benefits from a BID.'
Nigel Knuckey, partner, The Wearhouse, Princes Street, ‘Truro has a good mix of multiples stores and smaller independent, specialist shops, giving it a unique character within the region. However, some independents have closed in recent times. The Totally Truro BID will help to market the city better and help smaller businesses thrive in the future.'
Tony Welford, partner at Stephens & Scown, Malpas Road, ‘The Truro BID will provide an opportunity for businesses to deliver the services and improvements that they feel are necessary for Truro to thrive. By working in partnership, businesses could control a substantial pot of money, paving the way for a better Truro in the future.’
Simon Hendra, owner of Lemon Street Market, ‘It is imperative that we find a sustainable way of celebrating Christmas in Truro. Some businesses reported losses of trade of up to 35% when there were no festivities in 2005. With BID funding, we can make the biggest impact yet with a fantastic Christmas starting this year.’
Rob Wilkins, General Manager of Boots, Pydar Street, ‘Boots is committed to initiatives that will significantly improve Truro’s trading environment through much needed investment. This is a fantastic opportunity for all businesses to play a part in creating a more vibrant City Centre.'
Stuart Jenkins, General Manager of The Plaza Cinema, Lemon Street, ‘We are big supporters of the BID scheme and what it will do for Truro. It will bring massive benefits to the City which in turn will help us as a business.’
David Clarke, owner of The Original Art Shop, Nalders Court, ‘a strong voice and a collective budget to make things happen is what independent retailers need. I’m convinced that the projects in the BID programme will help small businesses to achieve trading results’
Malcolm Venn of Winners Personnel, Old Bridge Street, ‘Truro needs more and clearer signage which will not only direct visitors but also promote the City. Investment in signage and information points can only benefit businesses.’
Mike Barritt, owner of the M.I. Bar, Back Quay, 'The BID will provide more co-ordinated city centre management which will be great for Truro.'
Suzy Lowe, owner of Truro Coffee House, Boscawen Street, 'The BID represents great value for money. It has my full support.'
Jenny Coombe, Director of Cartridge World, The Leats, 'I will definitely be voting 'yes'. Everyone working together has got to be good.'
Martin Elliot, Managing Director of Mallets Home Hardware, Victoria Square, 'Drake Circus in Plymouth is pulling in shoppers with effective marketing. The marketing for Truro needs to be improved and vastly increased. The emphasis should be on quality and convenience.'
Tim Brinkman, Director of Hall for Cornwall, 'The opeways are a unique feature of Truro. With some money and creative flair, they could become part of an exciting Truro trail. Let's celebrate them and put them to a practical use too.'
David Cook, Branch Manager of Lloyds TSB, Boscawen Street, 'With BID funding we can give the approaches to Truro real visual impact. Truro is Cornwall's capital and the welcome we give to visitors should reflect that.'