Next five years are unmissable opportunity to breathe life back into Northampton town centre, says new BID co-chairman

The next five years are an unmissable opportunity to breathe new life back into Northampton town centre, according to the business improvement district's newly-elected co-chairman.

Kerry Reynolds was voted in to help oversee Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District’s (BID) ambitious plans to revitalise the area's fortunes as it embarks on a new five year term.

The area director for Metro Bank in Abington Street believes now is the time to inject a renewed sense of optimism, pride and purpose in the town as it recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are starting to see the economy open back up after an incredibly difficult period and this is a key point in both our immediate and long-term futures," she said.

“People are looking forward to getting back out in our town centre and supporting their favourite businesses and that enthusiasm, coupled with the exciting investment plans detailed in the Northampton Forward and Towns Fund proposals, represents an unmissable opportunity to really make a difference to Northampton.

“It’s an exceptional place to do business with a community that cares deeply about the town.

"We want to channel that passion and give businesses and residents a town centre to truly be proud of.

“Through a business-led programme of investment, we will continue to work with all stakeholders to define, develop and promote the identity of Northampton town centre which reflects its strengths, characteristics and heritage and is a sustainable and vibrant place which generates pride for its businesses, local residents, and visitors.”

Kerry replaces Brendan Bruder from Abbey Ross and will serve alongside Andrea Smith, partner and head of business services at Franklins Solicitors LLP.

Andrea said: "Kerry is hugely talented and I’m very excited to be working alongside such a well-reputed local business leader.

“We have a lot of work to do post-pandemic and I can’t wait to get started with Kerry and the rest of the BID team.”

Kerry has been a director on the BID board since 2018 and takes her new role as the BID starts its third five-year term

Northampton BID operations manager Mark Mullen said: “We’re hugely excited to welcome Kerry to the team and hear her ideas and vision for Northampton.

"Her passion stood out and we can’t wait to unveil some of the plans we have in store.

“We would also like to thank Brendan Bruder from Abbey Ross who Kerry is replacing as co-chair.

"His support and contribution over the course of his tenure was unwavering and we’re grateful that he will remain as a Board Director.

“We know the last 12 months have been challenging for many businesses but as an organisation we are committed to making our town centre thrive.

"Northampton has so much to offer and we want to showcase to residents the brilliant businesses and facilities they have on their doorstep.”

In March 2021, businesses voted in favour of renewing the BID for five more years until 2026, securing a significant £1.5 million to be spent on promoting the area.

Businesses pay an annual levy into a collective pot which is used to deliver the BID events, initiatives and projects in line with its business plan.

The board is governed by Northampton business people who all give up their time as board directors on a voluntary basis.