The new chair of Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID says he is committed to helping local businesses capitalise on opportunities in investment, activity and development as the town centre enters an ‘exciting’ new era.
Mark Wilkinson, director at Coburg Banks Ltd, has taken over as chair of the BID, which represents more than 350 businesses and raises £200,000 per annum for town centre and business improvements.
Mark becomes chair as Alison Clack, director of Cerda Planning Ltd, steps down following a successful year in the role that has seen the BID significantly raise its profile.
Mark said: “I am thrilled to be taking on the role as chair and looking forward to continuing working with the BID board and our team to support all BID members who are crucial to the town’s future success. As a long-standing BID board director, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible work undertaken over recent years.
“My objective is to continue to work closely with businesses to capitalise on the many opportunities for investment, activity and development over the next few years.
“This is arguably one of the most exciting periods for the BID and its members, and we are committed to listening to and adapting our priorities to meet the corresponding changing needs of local businesses. I am committed and enthused to ensure that, through the work of the BID, Sutton Coldfield becomes a better place to shop, visit and do business”.
All of this follows significant work by the BID over the last 12 months, under the leadership of BID manager Michelle Baker, supported by outgoing chair Alison Clack.
Achievements include a successful monthly farmers and craft market; regular family friendly events with characters such as Bluey, Peppa Pig and Batman; a car show; and a business event with retail guru Mary Portas. Other projects have included a graffiti removal for local businesses, a food and drink guide and workshops hosted by local businesses.
Her input has been invaluable, bringing energy and innovation and a tireless campaign to make sure that the levy payers get value for money. She will stay on as a voluntary board member and continue to contribute to the BID’s activity and influence within the Town.
Alison said: “The BID area is continuing to undergo change in its make up and function. With the appointment of Michelle Baker as BID manager in 2022, we acknowledged that one of the challenges for 2023 was to raise the profile of the BID. I’m very proud of all that we achieved against this objective, which is well-documented in our annual review, which includes a very healthy increase in followers on social media.
“Mark is very well equipped to continue to implement positive initiatives in the town; to continue to refocus following the pandemic, and respond to any business needs generated from the forthcoming new developments within the BID area. The BID’s mission to maintain a successful and thriving business community will be in very safe hands."
