The Big Interview ‘We have learned that you don’t have to be locked to your computer 9-5’

NICOLA FLEET-MILNE TALKS ABOUT DISTRICT LIFE AFTER COVID AND BID4 PRIORITIES

As Chair of Colmore BID, Nicola Fleet-Milne has certainly overseen some challenges since she took over in 2020 – most notably, steering the Board through the Covid19 pandemic. Here she discusses the key focus of BID4, how the city’s property sector has changed and shares her perfect day out.

Nicola’s desire to have an impact on the city shines through as soon as we start chatting. Her beaming smile and friendly nature are perfectly paired with her drive to succeed. And my, can she succeed.

She’s the owner of the multi-award winning FleetMilne, one of the city’s most respected residential property agencies. She founded her business in 2004, and has since battled and flourished her way through countless challenges. Yet despite navigating economic downturns and a pandemic, she is still able to shift her focus to head up the Board of the Colmore BID. In this role, she represents more than 35,000 employees working at 600 businesses –all of whom experienced the turmoil of the past few years.

“What I enjoy most about being Chair is I get to meet so many different people,” she says. “It helps raise my personal profile and by going to lots of events I raise the profile of the District. I love the BID team I work with, there is such a sense of pride in the city. I’m a Londoner originally, but have been here for 25 years. I would defend Birmingham over London any day!”

Her current focus is Colmore BID’s fourth term –BID4 – which last month started its consultation process with levy-paying businesses ahead of its ballot in September for a five-year term between 2024-2029.

“Our BID4 focus is very much on the environment and sustainability, alongside diversity and inclusivity. These are such important focusses for our businesses and we are putting a lot of time and effort into them.

“As an example, we want to create a greener Business District as well as more culture, art and public spaces. We have such a rich heritage and vibrant arts scene within the District – these are the things that create a feeling for a place. Yes, it needs to be clean and safe, but it needs a heart too.

“We work really well with the City Council, we have fostered a very professional relationship, and this has helped us with a number of projects over the years that have really enhanced the area.”

She recognises that to foster a greener, more sustainable ethos she needs to get businesses on board.

“Sustainability is hard to do; everyone has a different idea of what it is. We are working towards a ‘pedestrian-first’ district with fewer vehicles. This means a huge focus on working with freight and deliveries to our bars and restaurants. So while we understand the need for deliveries, we want to look at more curated times of the day.

“We also want to promote public transport and a push towards more cycling, and this helps wellbeing and efficiency come together. The city has always wanted to be known for being bold, and these are bold initiatives. Safety and security is key, and we have an excellent security patrol team. Our emphasis is on a collaborative approach, with all the BIDs working together.”

Her role as Chair means working hand in hand with seven business leaders from a range of organisations, as well as four directors from key public sector partners. They all share one common goal – the development of the District, whether that’s through the public realm, supporting those who work here or attracting visitors to its bustling hospitality venues.

“We are planning on promoting, celebrating and highlighting our business community and launching a Festival of Business, similar to our Food Festival that we organise every summer. Everyone knows who our big firms are, but also we have lots of smaller ones too. The leisure and hospitality venues need support, they need us to enjoy ourselves.

“Colmore BID is a destination area, with beautiful bars and restaurants, and Covid showed how incredibly resilient they are. They have had to pivot to find their way through, be more flexible, and they are stronger for it. Since Covid, the busier days have adjusted, so they have had to adapt to staff their venues in a different way.

“I would like to see people in the city get away from their desks more and seek downtime. Take a walk or go out for lunch; run or go to a yoga class. One of the things we have learned is that you don’t have to be locked to your computer 9-5.”

It’s impossible to interview Nicola and not discuss the state of the city’s property sector, which really took a hit during the pandemic.

“The BID area is the least residential in the city, but overall it is the same picture – sales are challenging, lettings are staying strong. But there’s not enough choice and this means rents are rising.

“I began my career in property 22 years ago, just as the city living sector was starting. Back then there were only five private residential developments. Today there are well over 150, with many more in the pipeline.

“City living used to be the preserve of the industrial workers from nearby factories, not the middle and upper classes. That has changed beyond recognition and now people realise that the city centre is a nice place to live and there’s plenty to do. We’re also seeing more retirees choosing to live in the city; the kids have moved out and if they downsize, they won’t have unused rooms and gardens to care for.”

NICOLA’S DISTRICT DELIGHTS

Restaurants: “High end, Orelle; mid-range, Fazenda or The Ivy; brunch at Wayland’s Yard.”

Bars: “Vagabond or Loki for wine; The Colmore and Purecraft both do a great pint. And cocktails at The Grand.”

THE PERFECT DAY:

“I’d start the day with a workout at MK Health, then head for some breakfast at Yorks, followed by some afternoon dwell time in Paradise. Late afternoon I’d visit Town Hall or BMAG; then dinner at Dishoom and I’d end the evening in Albert’s Schloss.”