Peter Dunphy, Councillor for Cornhill and member of the City’s Planning & Transportation Committee introduces us to a new plan for business co-operation in Cornhill.
The Western part of Cornhill is already covered by a successful Business Improvement District – the Cheapside Business Alliance. This includes the area west of Finch Lane, the whole of the Royal Exchange complex stretching as far as St. Pauls. There is now a plan to develop a BID in the rest of the Ward including Old Broad Street, Threadneedle Street, Bishopsgate and Gracechurch Street and Cornhill itself. These will be joined with the whole of the ‘Eastern Cluster’ area of tall buildings, Leadenhall Market, Monument and as far as Fenchurch Street station.
The intention would be for businesses, developers and the city of London to work together to enhance the public realm within the area to include streets and walkways enhancements, work to improve air quality and organise events to improve the experience of workers, visitors and residents. Importantly the partnership would provide the area with a combined voice when discussing important matters with the local authority and other public sector bodies.
Key objectives for the area will look to focus on the following:
- People
- Economic
- Environment
- Future attractiveness and competitiveness
- Smarter City
All businesses in the area will be consulted on the plan and invited to participate in a ballot. If approved the partnership is funded by a small levy on business rates. Discussions are at an early stage – including relating to precise boundaries, funding and even the name. any suggestions are welcomed and I will keep you updated on developments in the newsletter, the website and twitter (@cornhillward).
cornhillward.org.uk 