Welcome to the October 2015 update.
Otley Lido For Sale – You will have seen recently that the former Otley Lido/Rainbow Leisure at Wharfemeadows Park is now up for sale with Leeds City Council. Otley BID is pleased to have helped finally get all the relevant parties around the table to make this happen. Although this is a long-term project, we are now looking forward to seeing things move forward.
For more info go to http://www.leeds.gov.uk/Business/Pages/Former-Otley-lido.aspx
Boats on the River – We continue to liaise with colleagues on this project. Keep watching our Facebook and Twitter accounts for more information when it’s available.
River Wharfe Developments – During the early stages of planning to return boats to the river, we spoke with the Environment Agency and out of this conversation we were invited to have an input on an exciting scheme to rejuvenate the river as a visitor attraction. Experts on wildlife, fish and water are also involved so the BID’s input will very much be on helping ensure the Otley community and facilities can strengthen their links to the Wharfe.
Empty Properties – To help improve the look of empty retail properties around the town we are looking to put more attractive vinyl designs into the shop windows. We are therefore urging landlords to contact peter.mudge@otleybid.co.uk over the next few weeks to get this project off the ground before the busy Xmas shopping period.
Otley’s Largest Business Directory – Otley BID was delighted to launch the town’s largest Business Directory at an event on Monday 19th October 2015.
Held at the Black Horse Hotel on Westgate, the evening was well attended by a good mix of Otley businesses. There were also members of the Otley BID Board available to give updates and advice on both the directory as well as other projects that are currently underway. Representatives from Liliwaste, Excel Office Solutions, First Bus and JSPS Consulting were also on hand to answer any questions business owners might have about the money saving initiatives we have agreed.
This long awaited directory gives both residents and visitors a tool to find whatever they need within the town, whether it’s a plumber to fix a broken boiler, a travel agent to book a holiday, a café to meet up with friends, or a jeweller to buy a present for that special person.
There is also a list of empty premises available to those looking to set-up businesses in Otley, expand or even move from home based work.
The directory is FREE to all 500+ BID levy paying businesses. It enables every business to upload a description of their product or service, contact details, logo, website, social media, a selection of photos and a location map.
If you have not yet uploaded your business details please contact peter.mudge@otleybid.co.uk.
To visit the directory go to directory.otleybid.co.uk.
Talking to Businesses – Otley BID’s Manager Pete Mudge is still out and about meeting business owners, updating them on the BID’s activities and getting individual’s views on what could be done to improve trading and the appeal of the town.
You can contact Peter by email: peter.mudge@otleybid.co.uk, by phone: 07481 891686, or if you would prefer to visit him, he is available Monday’s, Thursday mornings and Friday’s in the office sited above the Welfare Hall opposite the Old Cock on Crossgate.
Please keep your ideas pouring in!
Christmas Trees – We are delighted to announce that we are funding 204 Christmas trees this year.
Let’s light up Otley this Christmas!
Footfall Analysis Update – Following the success of the initial trial, which took place from 17th August to 14th September 2015, we have appointed Noggin Ltd who are specialists in providing data analysis to small businesses and towns. With the expert advice from Noggin we can understand and make considered decisions for our town that are based on facts from the footfall data we have collated.
A second trial is due to be carried out involving an additional 8 footfall counters, located as follows:
- 4 x counters on the main access routes into town
- 4 x counters around the centre of town
The counters should be in place by 1st December so that we can analyse and understand the impact of the Christmas shopping period.
Christmas Late Night Opening – Whilst we are on the subject of Christmas, both the Chamber of Trade and ourselves are currently talking to Stray FM about doing a series of adverts to promote Otley’s businesses and events during the festive period.
It has been discussed that a series of Thursday late night openings could be a good way bring a buzz to the town mid week during December.
If you are interested in taking part please email sally.hinchliffe@otleybid.co.uk.
Neighbourhood Plan – Otley Town Council reported a good take up from businesses following the flyer that was sent to all BID levy payers recently. This information enables the Council to understand what the town needs for the future in terms of employment, training, etc. so thank you for your input.