Winter 2011
Coventry City Centre
BID Bulletin
COVENTRY CITY CENTRE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT - ENRICHING OUR CITY
“Welcome to the Christmas 2011 edition of your BID Bulletin. There's a lot to look forward to in Coventry over the festive period starting with the launch event on Sunday 20 November, the lights switch on at 4.30pm, festive entertainment in Precinct Cross and Shelton Square throughout December and a fantastic International Market. The BID has again worked with the council to agree a free parking offer in the run up to Christmas - full details can be found inside.
Heart of England in Bloom The annual Heart of England in Bloom presentation ceremony in Wolverhampton took place in September. The Heart of England in Bloom awards form the regional section of the nationwide Britain in Bloom Campaign which is organised and run by the Royal Horticultural Society. Coventry’s BID funded entry into this year’s Heart of England in Bloom campaign has seen another gold award for its commitment to the Large City category. A combined effort co-ordinated by the city centre BID team, Coventry City Council, CV One, The Landscape Group, Coventry University, Warwick University, Whitefriars Housing and a whole host of volunteers which made the city’s efforts stand out from the crowd. The city’s colourful parks, greens and floral displays across the town centre were picked out for particular praise with the University of Warwick gaining a special award for its excellent grounds work.
The BID-funded campaign entitled "Coventry's Christmas Cracker" will also be driving footfall into the city centre throughout December as visitors will have a chance to win a fantastic holiday as well as a host of other prizes, all provided by city centre businesses. I hope, weather permitting that you all have a fantastic trading period over the next six weeks leading right through into the New Year sales and that you and your families enjoy a Merry Christmas.” Marc Dwyer - City Centre Manager
Coventry’s International Market Coventry welcomes the largest outdoor market ever brought into the precinct this December. There will be a civic opening on the 1 December and the market will be open each day until Christmas Eve. A truly amazing destination shopping experience, shoppers can expect a stunning Tunisian bazaar with artisans and craftsman, presented within a traditionally decorated marquee, complete with authentic music, belly dancers and the buzz of a North African street market. In addition a large traditional wooden chalet will sell Bavarian beer and glühwein and a matching bratwurst sausage house will be imported especially for the event. Nations throughout the world will be represented with delicacies, international cuisine, hand crafted gifts from France, Spain, Greece, Lebanon, Iran, India, Morocco, Egypt and many more, making this the ultimate destination to pick up your special Christmas gifts.
www.coventrybids.co.uk
Transfer of Services You will have noted by now that the services provided by CVOne have transferred back in-house to the City Council. During the consultation period your BID committee voted in favour of the council hosting the BID team and providing them with the necessary support to see us through the full term of the current BID. This has been a seamless process and levels of service have not been affected.
BID Ambassadors We hope you will have noticed some fresh faces on patrol in the city centre over the past month. We have filled the three vacancies on the ambassador team. Unfortunately we bid Chris Knott farewell who has left the team after six years to join Norfolk Constabulary. I am sure you will join me in thanking him and wishing him well in his new career. The new members of the team are currently making there way around the city centre to introduce themselves to you, however if you have a pressing concern please give us a call and we will arrange a more immediate appointment. The team will be tasked with updating you on various BID projects, providing a reassuring presence for the public, targeting shoplifters and purse dippers. Dealing with low level anti-social behaviour i.e. drinkers and beggars, collating and distributing retail crime intelligence and providing businesses with a link to local policing teams and the CCTV control room.
Clive Nelson Oscar 1
Mike Thompson Oscar 2
Neal Ashby Oscar 3
Adrian Woolford Oscar 5
Committee Vacancies The committee is currently under represented by national retailers therefore we have two additional vacancies available. Please get in touch if you would like to represent the views of this sector. Due to unforeseen circumstances our BID chair Helen Wickett of Kitty's Sweets and Balloons has resigned from the BID Committee. Helen has made the decision to focus on her online business and will therefore close the shop in City Arcade. We are currently in the process of recruiting a new Chairperson. If you are passionate about the city centre and would like to join the committee please contact Marc Dwyer on 024 7683 1266.
Radio Training Workshops We are running two radio training sessions before Christmas, if you would like to send any of your employees along they will be held on Wednesday 30 November at 11am, West Orchards Management Suite and Thursday 1 December at 2pm, Lower Precinct Management suite. Please call or e-mail Adrian Woolford to book spaces on these two workshops. Adrian.woolford@coventry.gov.uk 07904 851839
Feel Alive Survey You should all have received the latest Feel Alive survey with your copy of the Feel Alive magazine. Can you please ensure you take the time to give us your feedback. We will then present the BID committee with the findings and they will decide on what form city centre marketing will take next year. It is therefore important that all city centre businesses views are considered. Please return a hard copy to a member of the team or alternatively you can complete the survey online at the following address www.coventry.gov.uk/BIDFeelAlivefeedback
Feel Alive Magazine
Crime Update - Winter 2011 Local neighbourhood policing inspector, Alastair Orencas (pictured) has taken time to give some words of advice for the coming Chistmas period. Alastair still holds an impressive presence on social networking site, Twitter so for further updates and information, be sure to ‘follow’ him at @coventry_police “Christmas is a great time that I personally look forward to as you can never have enough slippers or chocolate oranges! You’d expect me to talk about keeping safe and watching out for criminals but before I do, let’s put this into perspective. The vast majority of the community is untouched by crime and anti social behaviour and they will continue to be.That being said, here is the inevitable reminder which I’ll split into a few categories.
We hope you will all have received a copy of the brand spanking new edition of this winter’s ‘Feel Alive’ magazine containing 44 pages of funky fashion items, features of the latest Christmas gifts, dreamy gadgets and sparkling decorations plus much more, all designed to promote Coventry city centre! With a six page spectacular on this years ‘Christmas Cracker’ marketing campaign covering all necessary parking information along with events and winter entertainment information, you’ll be well clued-up on what’s on throughout the city centre during the Christmas period.
Please know your limits when it comes to your alcohol consumption. It’s not great for your health and too much can leave you vulnerable as your general awareness of your surroundings is inhibited. It is also a very embarrassing experience to wake up in a cell faced with a trip to Court, try telling your family about that whilst tucking into your Turkey! When you’re shopping make sure your purse/wallet remain secure and keep an eye open around those cash points for anyone suspicious. Call 999 if you see anyone that you think is up to no good. Keep a special eye out for the elderly who are easier to target whilst out shopping or after a transaction at a bank/post office or cash point. Linked into shopping, keep any valuables out of sight in your cars. Presents left in footwells or back seats can be too much of a temptation to thieves, they won’t need asking twice.” For further information: Telephone: 0345 113 5000 ext 7933 6610 E-Mail: a.orencas@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
Additionally, we would like to thank all of those retailers who have supported this edition of the magazine by providing us with fantastic offers and incentives plus those who have purchased advertising space. The magazine reaches over 100,000 homes throughout Coventry and Warwickshire along with retail outlets and business premises in the city centre. If you are interested in working with us on the Spring edition of the magazine, please get in touch!
Pubwatch
Darren Lee Taylor 024 7683 1385 Stevie Keith 024 7683 3461
Due to feedback from other licensees Pubwatch meetings will now be held on the first Tuesday of each month at 2pm. For details of the location please look on www.coventrypubwatch.co.uk or telephone one of the BID Ambassador team.
To view an online version of the magazine, please visit http://issuu.com/ cvone/docs/fa-winter2011-standard
As you know the scheme is managed by the licensees themselves and the committee are seeking your feedback on how you want the scheme to work for you in future. If you have any comments or suggestions please call Janet Cottle on 024 7622 7951.
Coventry’s Christmas Cracker! Following on from the success of last years “win your dream Christmas” campaign the City Centre BID and Coventry City Council present “Coventry’s Christmas Cracker”. We have joined forces with Thomas Cook to offer one lucky person a fantastic all inclusive family holiday to be taken in 2012. Other prizes include jewellery courtesy of Francis and Gaye, a digital camera from the Sony Centre, family pantomime tickets from the Belgrade Theatre, learn to skate passes from Planet Ice, a family festive lunch with Stresa Restaurant and Bar, Ramada hotel, vouchers for the Entertainer and clothing vouchers courtesy of Jacques Vert. The campaign has been designed to directly increase footfall over the Christmas period and will be supported with an extensive media campaign. Additional promotional work will be undertaken using the Feel Alive magazine, Citivision magazine, various roundabout sites, bus shelters, lamp column banners, city car parks and through web and social media. In order to enter the competition, vouchers will be printed every day in the Coventry Telegraph between Monday 21 November and Saturday 10 December. Entrants will collect these and then be required to personally post their entry through the letterbox of the BID kiosk in Precinct Cross which will be dressed in the campaign colours. No entries will be accepted via any other means. This will hopefully result in more visitors to the city centre. For all the information, latest updates and events listings, please visit: www.coventryschristmascracker.co.uk
Family Fun
Star Wednesdays!
Sunday November 20 will see event organisers Coventry City Council join forces with shopping centre outlets throughout the city to create a "Cracker of a Christmas" across the city centre. Popular radio station Touch FM will be on hand getting the festive proceedings underway from 11:00am on the specially constructed Christmas stage in Precinct Cross, where a whole host of variety acts, fun and entertainment for the whole family will take place. There will also be a second performance stage in Shelton Square.
Throughout November and December in the build up to Christmas, visitors and shoppers in the city centre will have their chance to shine alongside some of the best known local talent, as "Star Wednesdays" hits the stage. Located on the open air Fountain Stage in Precinct Cross, Star Wednesdays is part of a five week build up to Christmas, with live music and performances that will make your late night shopping experience go with a bang as you are invited to take in the sights and sounds of Coventry's finest acoustic talent.
Visitors to the city centre will see performances from the ‘Just in Case’ Christmas Special, a classic cabaret juggling show juggling balls of holly, a flaming pudding and a carving knife, before a Christmas cake emerges in a flash from nowhere! There will be dance shows from local dance school Freeman Dance, acrobatic elves that will be tumbling, leaping and somersaulting across the stage. An appearance from panto character Mother Goose, street dance from the Mini Kombat Breakers, sporting personalities and so much more.
Running every Wednesday from November 23 until December 21, the fountain stage will host a whole variety of established and up and coming music stars from across the city. With live performances from the likes of Danny Ansell, Kate Thompson front lady for The Prophets, The Ripps unplugged, Miss Ellie, The Reazons, Johnty Mongan, Lloyd McGrath, the Anthony Harty All Stars and even Re-Covered who play acoustic Motorhead with a flute, there promises to be something to keep absolutely everyone entertained. Organisers Coventry City Council believe the concept of live music each week in the build up to the festive season will play a huge part in attracting more visitors into the city's shopping areas.
City Centre Entertainment Santa Claus is coming to town! The little ones will have the chance to come along and meet Santa and his elves in his grotto in the West Orchards Shopping Centre, to make their Christmas wishes and also take the opportunity to have their picture taken whilst there. Smithford Way will be home to real-life reindeers so come and get up close and personal with and see just how friendly Rudolph and his friends really are. The Lower Precinct Shopping Centre will feature Bjorn the Polar Bear... a life-size, life-like adult bear, who is playful, huggable and more than just a little bit mischievous. Bjorn will have his own ice environment to make him feel at home and his owner, an Inuit Arctic Explorer will do his very best to try to keep him in check!
Sparkle Saturdays! Saturday afternoons will also have live entertainment aplenty on both staged areas, as "Sparkle Saturdays" brings Christmas cheer to the city. From noon, the city centre will be alive with the sights and sounds of dance, music, fitness and theatre, with performances including Street Dance, Hina Bollywood Dancers, Zumba, The Prospects, gospel choirs, Steel Pan Band and Three Spires Musical Society plus much, much more.
Lower Precinct Sunday 20 November Monday 21 November Tuesday 22 November Wednesday 23 November Thursday 24 November Friday 25 November Saturday 26 November Sunday 27 November Monday 28 November Tuesday 29 November Wednesday 30 November Thursday 1 December Friday 2 December Saturday 3 December Sunday 4 December Monday 5 December Tuesday 6 December Wednesday 7 December Thursday 8 December Friday 9 December Saturday 10 December Sunday 11 December Monday 12 December Tuesday 13 December Wednesday 14 December Thursday 15 December Friday 16 December Saturday 17 December Sunday 18 December Monday 19 December Tuesday 20 December Wednesday 21 December Thursday 22 December Friday 23 December Saturday 24 December Sunday 25 December Monday 26 December Tuesday 27 December Wednesday 28 December Thursday 29 December Friday 30 December Saturday 31 December Sunday 1 January Monday 2 January Tuesday 3 January Wednesday 4 January Thursday 5 January Friday 6 January Saturday 7 January
10am-5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm CLOSED 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm
M&S
Debenhams
Other shops
10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 8.30am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 8.30am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 8.30am - 7pm 8am - 7pm 10am - 4.30pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 7pm 8.30am - 7pm 8am - 6pm 10am - 4.30pm 8am - 8pm 8am - 8pm 8am - 9pm 7am - 9pm 7am - 9pm 7am - 5pm CLOSED 8am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8.30am - 6pm 8.30am - 6pm 8am - 5pm CLOSED 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8.30am - 6pm 8.30am - 6pm
9.30am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 8pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9.30am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 10pm 9am - 8pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9.30am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 7pm 9.30am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9.30am - 5pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 8am - 10pm 9am - 10pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm CLOSED 7am - 7pm 8am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm
10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 5pm CLOSED 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10.30am - 4.30pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm
Cov Market CLOSED 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 8am - 2.30pm 8am - 5.30pm 8am - 5.30pm CLOSED 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 8am - 2.30pm 8am - 5.30pm 8am - 5.30pm CLOSED 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 8am - 2.30pm 8am - 5.30pm 8am - 5.30pm CLOSED 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 8am - 2.30pm 8am - 5.30pm 8am - 5.30pm 10am - 4pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 8am - 4pm 8am - 5.30pm 8am - 4pm CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED 8am - 5pm 8am - 2.30pm 8am - 5.30pm 8am - 4pm CLOSED 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 8am - 2.30pm 8am - 5.30pm 8am - 5.30pm
Pizza Hut will continue to trade Cathedral Lanes outside of the centre’s normal Decorations will be put up and lights installed from 31st October. trading times. Lower Precinct car park will Late night Wednesday shopping will commence from 7 December close at 7pm Mon - Sat, 5.30pm Sun and with Wilkinson, First Sport and Games Workshop trading. 9.30pm late night trading dates. Late night shopping will continue on Wednesday 14 December and Wednesday 21 December. Information correct at time of going to print. Please check website for any changes
More Plans for the City Centre Public Realm projects in the city centre are progressing well - here is the latest news; Further plans to boost the regeneration and improvement work already taking place across the city centre are set to be approved by city councillors. The Council is adding to the original list of schemes and creating more areas of green space in the city centre, decluttering more streets and open spaces and making it easier for people to find their way around the city centre.
Buses and Taxis Move Out of Broadgate Buses and taxis have moved out of Broadgate, relocating to stops in other areas of the city centre including the Burges, after setting down passengers in Ironmonger Row. There is a new taxi rank in Greyfriars Lane, with others also planned for in the city centre. The change sees the one way order being reversed so traffic now travels towards High Street. Improvements have also been made to the pavements, making it easier for wheelchair users to access taxis, and the limited waiting bay has been removed. The moves come after the plan for Broadgate was changed to reflect the clear instruction from local people that Coventry's main square should be pedestrianised. Now Broadgate is traffic-free the work to lay the granite slabs will continue and people will begin to get a better feel for the size of the square.
Station to Bull Yard Work has started to make the route from Coventry railway station into the city centre, via Bull Yard, safer and more attractive. The overall work will create a greener and more landscaped area and includes re-paving paths, installing a zebra crossing and filling in the two subways. Work at Junction 6 of the ring road to install a Toucan crossing will start after the January sales next year. The improvements are a key part of the current regeneration works which is part-funded by ÂŁ3.5 million from the European Regional Development Fund.
Holy Trinity Church The transformation of the area outside Holy Trinity church, which is seen as a natural extension to Broadgate is set to start in the next few weeks. The works will include removing the bus shelters and creating a granite-paved route connecting the new Broadgate Square with the top of Trinity Street and the edge of Ironmonger Row. It will also help improve the link between Coventry's historic Cathedral area and the modern city centre. Included in the improvements are two grassed areas, more trees and benches so people can sit and chat or just read the paper while having their lunch.
Improvements to Hertford Street Another part of Coventry's city centre, Hertford Street, is set to benefit from a package of improvements which will revitalise its look and feel for shoppers, visitors and traders.The improvements include repairing the canopy and paving, replacing the benches, upgrading the lighting, improving the appearance of shop frontages and de-cluttering the street scene. The proposed works are aimed at supporting the city centre ahead of the more comprehensive redevelopment of the southern precinct area - work has already started on an outline planning application for the area around Market Way, Bull Yard and the Barracks car park.
Stakeholder's Group The first meeting of the City Centre's Stakeholders Group has taken place. The group meets to find out more about, and get involved in, the improvements in the city centre. A range of city centre businesses and traders are represented on the group. To find out more contact Faye Cockayne, Major Projects Community Engagement Officer, on 024 7683 2391.
American Imports 32 City Arcade American Imports have decided to branch out and make the step into their own premises after leaving the confines of the Coventry Blaze store in Market Way. They can now be found in City Arcade selling all of your favourite American foods including candy, sodas, cereals, spreads and much more! Check out the new look store or log on to www.4thofjuly.co.uk
Funktion 41 Smithford Way Husband and wife Stephen and Marianne Taylor have teamed up with business partner Mark Wiles to open this exciting new venture in Smithford way. Offering a variety of clothing styles perfect for many different occasions. They specialise in formal dresses along with gentlemen’s casual clothing.
Our Journey to London 2012 As the excitement builds towards next year and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to put Coventry on the world stage, a number of plans and events will ensure visitors and local people are kept entertained and enjoy the opportunity to see the best the city can offer. A range of plans and ideas are under consideration including new and updated city trails and tours, street festivals and entertainment, live music and events, including the hosting of the Olympic Torch celebrations in the city on 1 July next year. The aim is to encourage visitors and local people to join in the festivities and help raise the profile and aspirations of our great city. A Coventry Welcomes initiative is also underway to ensure everyone gets a warm welcome to the city, whether they advertising purely to attend a football match at the City of Coventry Stadium or as part of a longer stay within the Coventry and Warwickshire area. One element of this is the recently launched Coventry Ambassadors scheme where the city is looking to recruit over 300 volunteers to act as Ambassadors during the 2012 Games and be the first point of call for anyone needing assistance and information about the London 2012 Olympic Football competition or other related events across the city. If you're interested in becoming an Ambassador, you can apply until 25 November 2011 by visiting www.coventry.gov.uk/coventryambassadors.
Francis & Gaye Francis & Gaye have recently relocated into West Orchards Shopping Centre, located on the 1st Floor, opposite Republic. The fantastic new store is sure to enhance the value and choice already available in the centre. A family-owned jewellers who place emphasis on providing exceptional levels of service and helpful friendly advice.
Bank of India 68, Hertford Street With a tradition in banking dating as far back as 1806, State bank of India (SBOI) carries the art of banking in their blood. Check out there new branch located in the old site of the Derbyshire, Hertford Street.
To keep up-to-date with all the latest London 2012 news via our regular e-newsletter, please sign up by emailing 2012gamesenquiries@coventry.gov.uk. All London 2012 related information, including news around the Coventry and Warwickshire region, is also available at www.coventry.gov.uk/london2012
Carol Service This year the Council and the NHS are teaming up to organise a carol service based on the theme of 'Coming together at Christmas' with an address by the Bishop of Warwick. The service will take place on Monday 19 December, at 1pm, at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry with refreshments (including mince pies) being served from 12.30pm. All are welcome. The organisers would be pleased if you could display the enclosed poster to inform your staff and customers of this event.
Christmas Parking Offer Once again the City Council has supported the free parking offer every Wednesday leading up to Christmas. Free parking will be available each Wednesday from the 23 November - 21 December when entering any council owned city centre car park after 4pm including West Orchards, Salt Lane and Barracks.
The Stats There were 44 city centre voids at the end of September 2011, 4 fewer than at the end of Sep 2010 (48) and the lowest 3rd quarter figure since 2007. Footfall for the year to week 35 (week ending 4/9/11) was down 2.6% compared to w1-w35 2010. This compares favourably with the springboard index carried out by The Association of Town Centre Management (ATCM) reporting the national footfall figure to be 3% down. Overall city centre crime for Jan-Sep was down 12.1% compared to Jan-Sep 2009. We are comparing to 2009 due to the change of policing boundaries last year. Cleansing for the first three quarters of the year showed an improvement of 1.2% compared to 2010.
Catering and Hospitality For those of you in catering and hospitality business we have a great offer from Delice de France who are offering city centre BID Members up to 55% off list prices on their range of products. With over 25 years experience Delice de France are the leading manufacturer and food service provider in the UK who are committed to producing the highest quality products from the finest ingredients. They have a policy of passion for great food and exceptional customer service. To discuss how to take advantage of these advantageous rates please call one of the team on 024 7683 1266.
2011 City Centre Survey Initial results from the 2011 City Centre Survey show the continued negative effects of the recession, which is influencing falling frequency of visits, lower average spend and reduced evening usage. Despite this, the survey findings suggest that the BID has contributed to improvements over the past year, with visitors feeling safer during both the day and evening, satisfaction levels with cleansing within the city centre continuing to improve, event attendance being at its highest level on record and more people having seen the Feel Alive magazine. Full findings from the survey will be available to members on the BID website: www.coventrybids.co.uk.
City Centre Survey Proportion who feel unsafe during the day Proportion who feel unsafe during the evening Average cleansing satisfaction (on a scale of 1=poor to 5=excellent) Event attendance (% who attended at least one event over the past 12 months) Have seen the Feel Alive magazine
2011 Survey
2010 Survey
7%
8%
29%
34%
3.17
3.09
67%
59%
48%
47%
Joint Procurement We continue to visit premises in the city centre to identify significant savings on business costs. The constant rise of Gas and Electric prices is seemingly on everyone’s mind and we have been busy counteracting significant rises as businesses come out of their existing contracts. This time round I would like to focus on waste management. At present there is in excess of 12 different waste operators contracted by businesses in the city centre. This represents hundreds of weekly movements by Heavy Goods Vehicles driving into the city centre from various parts of the region, affecting both vehicle congestion and carbon emissions. The Council’s Waste Services are actively looking at combating this issue by utilising their vehicle fleet more effectively and reducing the number of vehicle movements by operators coming into the City from long distance often to conduct only a few service operations. Subsequently this could result in lower costs for waste disposal and preferential rates to city centre BID members. All businesses have a legal ‘Duty of Care’ to ensure any waste they produce is controlled. When appointing a waste management contractor you should ensure they are reputable as any illegal tipping of your waste may contravene your duty of care. Waste that is removed from the business premises the appointed contractor must supply a copy of the waste transfer note. The waste transfer note would include a description of the waste, quantity and waste destination. The council recognise that smaller businesses may not require a regular collection therefore a pre-paid bag scheme in which businesses can purchase 100 bags for £100 is available. For larger waste disposal requirements they offer a range of services from wheelie bin hire, 240 litre, 660 litre and 1100 litre containers. The 660 and 1100 litre bins are fully lockable, lightweight and maneuverable with brakes fitted. Wheeled bins are used for both general waste and recyclable material. Pre-paid sacks for general waste can be used as and when you require. For more information or a free no obligation quotation please call Marc Dwyer on 07506 689775.
Fresher’s Fayre The end of September saw the BID team work with the Pubwatch committee to host a fresher’s fayre in Ironmonger Row. Despite the huge backlog in the halls of residence the day went extremely well. A host of stalls showcased what the city centre has to offer in terms of shopping and nightlife with WKD and Planet Ice sponsoring the event. On stage were various local DJ’s, up-and-coming artists and competitions sponsored by American Imports and Kitty’s Sweets and Balloons. There was also a fantastic display of breakdancing by the Mini Kombat Breakers. Participants included Sainsbury’s, Wetherspoons, The Oak Inn, The Phoenix, Planet Ice, WKD, TopShop, Clique Bar and Grill, GNC, Laser Quest, Splat force, Lime Gecko, Contract Options, Rainbows, Extra Care, Greggs, The Spon Gate and the Earl of Mercia. Over £600 was also raised for two local charities Relate and Tiny Tims; this was through contributions from BID members and the general public. A special thanks to Jamie at Contract Options who stepped in at late notice to provide power for the stage, Jamie from Blitz Sounds and Ashley Light, Planet Ice arena manager - the event could not have happened without you.
Shopwatch Shopwatch members, the latest intelligence images should have reached you by now. We are beginning to move towards online distribution for these on our dedicated website: www.coventryshopwatch.co.uk so please visit the site and pre-register yourself. If you are currently receiving paper updates and no longer need them let us know as this will save printing costs.
Pure Gym I'm sure that joining a gym will be top of your New Year's resolution list. You would be hard pushed to find better value than Coventry's newest fitness centre - PURE GYM. Opening on Thursday 15 December the gym offers fantastic value at a mere ÂŁ9.99 per month. With two hours free parking, No formal contract, over 40 classes per week, 220 pieces of kit and a money back guarantee* you won't want to miss out. 24 hour opening seven days a week - SkyDome Arena * Applies in the first seven days of opening
All BID members are entitled to join the Shopwatch scheme for free, however where you also require a security radio your BID levy must be at least ÂŁ175 per annum. If you are unsure of your Levy or would like more information please contact a member of the team.
Feedback The quarterly newsletter is a great opportunity for us to update you on projects and services provided by the BID. It is also a platform for the Council to communicate the latest development news. It is important that we constantly review the best and most cost-effective avenues of communicating these updates. If you would prefer to receive updates online please could you supply us with email addresses to do so. This would allow us to provide you with information relevant to your business as and when required for free. Please ensure that you add marc.dwyer@coventry.gov.uk to your contact list so that mailings aren't held up by your e-mail filters.
Official 2012 merchandise Awnhill Ltd are a licensed distributor of Official London 2012 merchandise (mugs, pin badges and souvenirs etc) they are looking for retailers within Coventry who would like to stock merchandise for sale within their establishment. The retailers can be of any size from a local corner shop, through to large department stores. Awnhill are approaching retailers now so that stocks and provisions can be arranged to be in place for the start of the New Year in 2012. If you are interested please contact Sejal Thakrar on 07886 740850 or 020 88424140
If you have any suggestions on how we could improve the newsletter please do let us know.
Destination Marketing The Inward Investment team at Coventry City Council have recently welcomed three additional staff after transferring from CV One employment at the end of September. Jackie Fallon, Darren Taylor and Stevie Keith make up the new Destination Marketing (DM) team on Floor 7 of Civic Centre 4. They will continue to provide high quality tourism services and products for the city of Coventry and the sub-region. With expert skills in marketing, promotion and tourism solutions, the DM team works closely with both leisure members and conference venues and delegates with the aim of improving investment in the city and increasing overall footfall numbers. The brand new 88 page tourism guide for Coventry and Warwickshire has just been launched, with listings for over 200 businesses in the region covering attractions, places to eat, shopping and accommodation; a copy of which you can find at the local Tourist Information Centre in St Michael’s Tower in the Cathedral ruins. As well as this, the team is responsible for the production of the 44 page lifestyle magazine, Feel Alive, which is out now, and dropping through thousands of doors across Coventry and Warwickshire with news on all the latest store openings, fashion styles, features, incentives and competitions for the winter season. The team will also be playing a large part in next year’s Olympic plans for the city, providing informative and useful web content on the main www.visitcoventryandwarwickshire.co.uk website. The Inward Investment and Destination Marketing team look forward to providing many more high quality, attractive and informative publications, websites and business solutions for the city of Coventry and the sub-region. For more information contact Jacquetta Staunton and/or Deirdre Fitzhugh on 024 7683 1206/1228.
Visit Coventry and Warwickshire The official tourism website for Coventry and Warwickshire provides fully comprehensive listings for all of the attractions, shopping destinations, wining and dining and accommodation venues in the region. With links to all of the main publications and tourism guides, as well as interesting details on all of the areas fascinating facts and historic figures. With amazing walking tours, Medieval trails and local events listings to the latest visitor maps and tourist services, group travel and directional information, it’s the perfect place to plan any visit, whether it be one day or a whole week. With lots of exciting plans ahead for the website in 2012, including a special Olympic area for all the event timings, Olympic venues, bus timetables, taxi information, park & ride and live downloads to all 2012 marketing tools plus training tips for all businesses and services, keep your eyes firmly fixed on www.visitcoventry.co.uk for all the latest information for residents, visitors and businesses alike.
Contact Us: General Queries Marc Dwyer 024 7683 1266
The Ambassadors Christmas Message We are rapidly approaching the festive season and footfall in the city centre is set to increase. It is important to take extra care in safeguarding your store and premises from theft during this busy period. Please ensure that your staff are alert and aware of measures they can take to reduce opportunities for would be criminals. Good proactive use of the retail radio network will help to keep you up to date with what is happening in the city centre, and provide you with early warnings of known shoplifters. Below is a list of good practices that could help you protect your Christmas stock and customers, and enjoy a successful Christmas. • If you have a suspicious individual in store greet them and make them aware of your presence by politely asking them “Is there anything I can help you with?” • Make sure that all of your staff have a basic knowledge of how to use the Retail Security radio. Ask them to carry out a radio check to make sure. (If you need us to train any of your staff please call one of the team on 024 7683 1266) • Please encourage your employees to look through the intelligence handouts in RCO folder so they are familiar with the more prolific shoplifters.
Crime Issues Adrian Woolford 07904 851839 BID Ambassadors Clive Nelson/Mike Thompson Neal Ashby 07904 851839
CCTV Control Room 024 7683 3636
• Ensure you are calling through to the CCTV Control Room any known shoplifters that you recognise in your store. • If you see any of your customers leave their bag open or un-attended, please advise them.
Promotions/Leaflets Toni Pittaway 024 7622 4927
• Make sure that your CCTV system is fully maintained and you know how to use it effectively. • Make sure that your staff approach any unknown visitors to the back areas of your store. • Make sure that all security doors are kept locked.
Marketing Darren Taylor/Stevie Keith 024 7683 1385/3461 City Centre and Development Services Floor 7 Civic Centre 4 Much Park Street Coventry CV1 2PY
• Increase the frequency of “pick ups” from the tills. • If you are taking money to the bank, vary your routes. • If you use a Cash in Transit Company, make sure you verify their identity, especially if there is a new collector. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year, we hope that your store has a very profitable festive period.
Phone: 024 7683 1266 Email: marc.dwyer@coventry.gov.uk
The BID Ambassador Team Adrian Woolford, Clive Nelson, Mike Thompson and Neal Ashby.
www.coventrybids.co.uk