About The Bid

A Business Improvement District or BID is a formal partnership between local authorities and local businesses, who come together to make and deliver plans to improve trade and footfall within their town centre. BIDs have developed nationally over the last 12 years and must be agreed by ballot; they are funded in whole, or in part, by a levy additional to the non-domestic rates.

The BID Company is here to act as a voice for local businesses to tackle issues related to both footfall and offer. Our mission is to restore the world’s first Garden City to its place as a unique and inspirational destination for all to enjoy; attractive, social, innovative, creative, convenient and most of all thriving.

Specifically, the BID Company’s plan focusses on four streams of activity/projects:

Pictures of Letchworth
  • Events and promotional activities – Weekly events and promotional activities are held throughout the town centre, showcasing the town’s core offer, and bringing additional attractions to the town.
  • Access and parking – Reviewing and taking action on those aspects of access and parking in the town centre that are most important to visitors and businesses.
  • Marketing – Promoting what Letchworth Garden City has to offer our primary and secondary catchments via all media formats with an increasing focus on digital media.
  • Developing our offer – Improving our range, relevance, and quality of social, leisure, service, and retail offer in Letchworth Garden City town centre, working with landlords where necessary.
Illustrated Letchworth Street Life