Peterborough city centre businesses vote overwhelmingly for positive future
Peterborough Positive has secured an overwhelming vote of confidence from city centre businesses, with 94% voting in favour by rateable value, securing the Business Improvement District (BID) for a second five-year term.
The result, along with an impressive 60% turnout, represents a standout performance within the BID sector, exceeding the average turnout achieved in second, third, fourth and even fifth-term BID ballots nationally.
This strong endorsement reflects the trust and confidence city centre businesses have in Peterborough Positive’s ability to deliver practical initiatives, meaningful partnerships and improvements that support businesses and enhance the city centre experience.
Pep Cipriano, Chief Operating Officer at Peterborough Positive, said:
"This is an incredibly positive result, not just for Peterborough Positive, but for our city centre as a whole. Securing support from 94% of businesses, alongside an impressive 60% turnout, provides a clear and resounding mandate from businesses for us to continue the work we have started together. "We are hugely grateful to every business that took the time to vote and for the trust they have placed in us. It reinforces the message that businesses value a strong, independent voice that champions their interests and delivers action where it matters most. "Everyone at Peterborough Positive cares deeply about creating a city centre that businesses can be proud to be part of and that residents and visitors want to spend time in. I am delighted by what has been achieved over the past four years and I'm excited to build on that momentum over the next five years."
Kelly Linay, Chair of Peterborough Positive, said:
"Having been involved since the BID's inception, it is incredibly rewarding to see such strong support from our business community. This result represents far more than a successful ballot. It is a vote for continued progress, partnership and positivity for Peterborough. "Over the past four years we have worked hard to build strong relationships, give businesses a stronger voice, and deliver initiatives that make a difference to the city centre. I would like to thank our businesses, partners, my fellow board members, Locus (our BID advisors) and the Peterborough Positive team for their commitment and support. Together, we have started to shape a more confident and vibrant city centre."
Throughout its first term, Peterborough Positive has delivered a wide range of initiatives focused on supporting businesses and enhancing the city centre, from eye catching murals and colourful planters to award-winning events, safety initiatives and campaigns that help drive footfall and showcase Peterborough as a destination.
With strong backing from businesses, Peterborough Positive will now focus on delivering its Second Term Business Plan, building on the progress already made and driving further improvements to help make a safer, more vibrant and welcoming city centre for everyone.