Celebrating Migration and Biodiversity

It’s World Migratory Bird Day and International Day for Biological Diversity this month. In this blog post, we take a closer look at each.

11 May: World Migratory Bird Day

The methods birds use to migrate are almost unbelievable and include sight, smell and even the Earth’s magnetic field. Many species leave and return to the same location each year, sometimes traveling thousands of miles along the way, such as Artic Terns. However, they often face hurdles such as habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and illegal hunting. It’s a sad fact that many perish.

World Migratory Bird Day is an annual global awareness-raising campaign that highlights the need for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. WMBD raises awareness about the threats faced by migratory birds, and prompts action.

In London, perhaps the most noticeable migratory bird is the Swift. As they race overhead for the few weeks they’re here each year, catching insects mid-flight, their calls are a sign of summer for many. But Swifts are under threat due to habitat loss and scare nesting opportunities. Read more about Swifts, and how you can help. Why not record your first sighting this year and in subsequent years too?

Cuckoos are also returning from Central Africa about now. You can track the progress of some that have been tagged (ethically) with geolocators. When they reach the UK and have been in the same location for a while, why not take a birdwatching trip and try and spot them. All you need is a good pair of binoculars and be Countryside Code-savvy. Read these tips on using binoculars and how to focus them here.

There are several bird groups in London and that you might want to consider looking up too, like the London Bird Club or RSPB Central London Bird Group.

22 May: International Day for Biological Diversity

Biodiversity – the variety of life of Earth – is amazing and vital to planetary and human health. If you’ve watched a David Attenborough programme you’ll know this. Unfortunately, the variety of life on Earth is less today than when Sir David filmed The Trials of Life just 30 or so years ago.

IDBD aims to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues and the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

At London Heritage Quarter we consider biodiversity in our street-based and greening projects. For example, through proposing more and different species of street trees and other planting. Even small items like planters and hanging baskets can play a key role in providing pollinator-friendly plants and habitat. These schemes help create green corridors that wildlife can also use to navigate to other areas. In this way they contribute to wider efforts by statutory bodes we work with such as the Greater London Authority and their All London Green Grid and support Westminster City’s Council’s efforts to address the ecological emergency.

An award-winning example is Strand Aldwych that delivers 1,370 square metres of biodiverse planting and 8,366 herbaceous plants including White Wood Aster, Ajuga reptans ‘Catlin’s Giant’, Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’, Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ and Sedum ‘Ruby Glow’. Strand is an exemplar of a softer, greener, healthier city that helps people – and wildlife – that sits alongside other formal and informal greenspaces within the BID footprints.

Look out for opportunities to get involved in local greening activities in our future newsletters. In the meantime, why not register to volunteer with The Royal Parks. Now that Spring has sprung keep an eye on any new street trees where you live. The London Wildlife Trust also has some great information on getting involved to support wildlife.

The Future of London Heritage Quarter – Trends up to 2040

London Heritage Quarter have partnered with Arup to assess key trends and developments
impacting the area, up to 2040, and to produce recommendations for action.


Work and skills in 2040

  • The number of jobs in Westminster will grow, but not as fast as elsewhere in London. However, Westminster will remain at the centre of London’s economy, with the highest number of jobs in London at 820,000 by 2040.
  • By 2040, there will be up to 1.1m new green jobs in London, with finance the largest green economy sector. The green transition may be constrained by a lack of skills, and reskilling will require a significant cross-sector effort.
  • UK government is aiming to relocate around one-fifth of civil service roles out of London by 2027. Private sector occupiers may follow, and others may take the vacated space. This shift may unlock opportunities for growing a private sector presence in the area, subject to adapting the office stock to new occupiers’ needs.
  • The ‘flight to quality’ now appears structural. This means that higher specifications and more central locations are winning out over secondary centres and stock and may continue to do so to 2040. Location is increasingly a key factor that determines the desirability of offices. Office swill need to offer a diversity of spaces, from larger, flexible collaboration spaces to smaller spaces for focus tasks or online meetings. Many workspaces will become compelling destinations, drawing workers away from home and third spaces.
  • Employees are returning to the office slowly, but flexible work may lead to right-sizing in the short term. Office occupancy is expected to recover to 2019 levels by 2040 but could be reached as early as 2030 or earlier if the economy grows faster.
  • Artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly impact the nature of work by 2040, potentially creating new roles, and augmenting others. London HQ is well-placed to benefits from new and augmented roles created by the AI revolution in the workplace and will remain a desirable venue for in-person
    meetings.

Retail in 2040

  • Central London will gain from a gradual recovery in retail spending. Whilst real worker expenditure might not reach 2019 levels until the mid-2030s, (Arup, 2022), tourism spending is expected to rebound quicker (GLA Economics, 2022). In the long-term, the vibrancy of the retail offer in the
    LHQ area will still depend on a balanced mix of office workers, tourists and locals.
  • In-person stores will remain competitive by providing a more immersive, personalised experience. Some flagship physical stores may introduce theatrical settings through alternative store layouts, lighting design or multi-sensory interventions. Other retailers may prioritise data-driven
    personalised interactions.
  • Consumers and retailers will embrace the era of localism, distinctiveness and attention to ethics. In the short term, this may lead to a shift from major chain brands or innovative forms of co-location. While chain stores may rebound in the long term, they are likely to be repositioned as
    more local and community-oriented.

Read full report here

Mayor confirms landmark off-peak Fridays trial to start on 8 March and makes call to Londoners: #LetsDoFridays

  • Pay as you go with contactless and Oyster fares on Tube and rail across London and the Southeast will be off-peak all day on Fridays from 8 March until 31 May 2024, in an initiative that will be closely watched around the world
  • Trial will also benefit 60+ and Freedom Pass holders who will be able to use their passes all day on Fridays
  • Off-peak fares on Fridays seek to help keep London roaring back, support a further return to the office and provide a further boost to the city’s economy
  • Host of offers to be made available during the trial to further allow Londoners and visitors to make the most of all London has to offer

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today confirmed that a trial where Tube and rail fares on pay as you go with contactless and Oyster will be off-peak all day on Fridays, will begin next Friday on 8 March.

The Mayor has introduced this trial from next Friday to help TfL and rail operators to better understand if off-peak fares on a Friday could help drive ridership and boost London’s wider economic recovery. The three-month trial will run until 31 May and will be keenly watched by major cities looking to bounce back after the pandemic. The trial follows the previous announcement that the Mayor has frozen TfL fares until March 2025, further helping to support Londoners struggling with the cost of living and London’s recovery from the pandemic.

Peak pay as you go fares apply between 06:30 and 09:30 and between 16:00 and 19:00 on both TfL and National Rail services. Making pay as you go journeys on Fridays off-peak all day will make it cheaper for people to travel – potentially supporting economic growth by encouraging more people back onto public transport and into the office on a day that is currently quieter than other weekdays.

TfL and the Train companies have now agreed a trial whereby all pay as you go journeys made using contactless and Oyster (with the exception of journeys to/from Heathrow airport via Zone 1) will be off-peak on Fridays. The daily cap will also be amended during the trial to cap at an off-peak rate on Friday, helping those who make multiple journeys through the day save even more. Bus and Tram fares across London will not change during the trial as they are set at a flat rate of £1.75 regardless of the time of travel.

The trial will also see 60+ London Oyster photocard and Older Persons’ Freedom Passes allowed to be used on TfL and National Rail services before 9am, helping Londoners with these passes to travel for free all day on Fridays.

To fund the trial, £24m has been allocated from the Mayor of London’s recently approved budget, which will be used to compensate TfL and rail operators for lower fares revenue during the trial and cover the costs for running it.

Off-peak Friday fares could give a much-needed boost to London’s businesses and commuters at a time when the cost-of-living continues to bite. As an example, someone commuting in from Uxbridge (Zone 6) into Holborn (Zone 1) would currently pay £5.60 for travelling on the Tube. Under this trial, this fare would be reduced to £3.60 – saving them £2.  Someone commuting from Newbury Park (Zone 4) to Canary Wharf (Zone 2) currently pays £2.80 for the trip. This fare would be reduced down to £1.90 – saving them 90p. On National Rail, someone commuting using pay as you go from Epsom to Waterloo would pay £8.80 midweek but will pay £6.10 on a Friday during the trial – saving them £2.70. These savings would be doubled if the return journey was also made during evening peak hours.

The Mayor hopes that having off-peak fares on Fridays could help encourage more people into the city to make the most of London’s fantastic offering of bars, restaurants, live music venues and theatres. Those who choose to come into the city on Fridays will also be able to make the most of London’s world-leading nightlife, with so many fantastic events and venues to experience this year, as well as the Night Tube and Night Overground running across the weekend.

To further support the trial, TfL and London & Partners, London’s business growth and destination agency, has created a new webpage – www.visitlondon.com/fridays – where Londoners can see a range of offers available on Fridays during the trial. They have also been working with Business Improvement Districts across London, and key stakeholders, to identify a range of deals to further encourage people to make the most of their Fridays.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “I’m doing all I can to support Londoners through the cost-of-living crisis and to support London’s economic recovery. This includes freezing TfL fares for another year to make transport more affordable for millions of Londoners and to encourage more people to use our transport network. But I want to do more.

“Encouraging more people back into the city on Fridays could give a much-needed boost to the hospitality, business and leisure sectors, supporting London’s wider economic growth as we continue to build a fairer, greener and more prosperous London for everyone. So, I’m making a call to all Londoners: to help London keep roaring back – Let’s Do Fridays!”

Shashi Verma, Chief Technology Officer at TfL said: “While millions of people travel using bus, Tube and rail services across London every day, we are still seeing ridership on Fridays, particularly during peak hours, being lower than other days of the week. This trial of making Fridays off-peak will help us better understand how targeted initiatives like this could help potentially support economic growth by encouraging more people back onto public transport and into the office on a day that is currently quieter than other weekdays.”

Jacqueline Starr, Chief Executive Officer at Rail Delivery Group, said: “We want more people to use rail. We’re pleased that train companies are able to work with Transport for London to offer this trial to customers and we hope it will encourage more people onto trains in the capital. We know that people value rail and as seen from our latest research they plan to use it more in the upcoming months.  

“It is a greener, more convenient way to travel into and around London. This trial means customers in London can travel at off-peak prices on Fridays by using pay as you go on Oyster or Contactless.” 

Rose Wangen-Jones, Destination Managing Director at London & Partners, which runs VisitLondon.com, said: “Friday is the perfect day of the week to explore London, from attractions, galleries and museum lates to unmissable food and drink, nightlife, and theatre. We’re delighted to be working with leading tourism partners across the city to offer up exclusive Friday discounts.

“Broadening the visitor experience for Londoners and visitors alike is a crucial part of our London 2030 Tourism Vision, so we’re very excited to be working with TfL on this initiative.”

Ros Morgan, Chief Executive of Heart of London Business Alliance, said: “TfL data shows that footfall on Fridays, particularly in the daytime, is yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. This is why we have been calling for innovative trials, such as this welcome announcement, to attract more people to the West End. It has the potential to provide a huge boost to our businesses, particularly in the hospitality, retail and cultural sectors.”

Ruth Duston, CEO and Founder of Primera, which operates 12 central London Business Improvement Districts, said: “London has always been a trailblazing city, and it is fantastic to see that our calls for bold action have been heard. Across the BIDs Primera operates, which span the whole of Zone 1, there is no doubt that Fridays are still noticeably quieter than the rest of the week. We are looking forward to working with our partners and stakeholders across the capital to support this trial and put on exciting activations to entice Londoners and visitors to make the most of the off-peak fares.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said: “This is a welcome move for our flagship Destination City programme, which sets out a vision for the Square Mile to become a world-leading leisure destination for UK and global visitors, workers, and residents. The capital has a first-class visitor offer, with unparalleled history, cutting edge arts, and outstanding attractions.

“This agreement could deliver a significant boost for London’s pubs, cafes, restaurants, and cultural sector. Slashing travel costs will encourage even more people to enjoy our great capital – and support our businesses – as footfall continues to reach its steady rise back to pre-pandemic levels.”

Nic Durston, Chief Executive, South Bank Employers’ Group said: “It’s great to see this initiative being trialled to help encourage Friday footfall into central London. This welcome initiative could provide a huge boost to the wider London economy, especially the hospitality and leisure sectors who’ve been impacted by reduced commuter numbers – not just during the day, but the post-work evening economy too. We hope we will see positive results from the trial.”

For more information about the trial – please visit www.tfl.gov.uk/fares

To see the latest offers for Fridays please visit www.tfl.gov.uk/deals and http://www.visitlondon.com/Fridays

Way to help those sleeping rough this Christmas

What’s on offer at Crisis at Christmas Day Centres this year?

Crisis at Christmas Day Centres are safe, warm and lively places, run by caring and friendly volunteers. They are open for anyone to attend. No referral is needed and guests can show up and join us on the day.

Timings and locations

  • This year Crisis is opening its Christmas Day Centres in three new locations:
    Bermondsey Day Centre, City of London Academy Southwark, SE1 5LA
  • Pimlico Day Centre, Pimlico Academy, SW1V 3AT
  • Stratford Day Centre, School 21, E15 4RZ
    Centres will be open 10am – 5pm from 24 December to 28 December 2023. 

    Guests are expected to make their way to the day centres.

    For full details, please download the guest invite leaflet from their website. 

Download their Day Centre leaflet

What’s on offer?

  • At our day centres guests will have access to:
  •  Hot meals and snacks
  •  Shower facilities
  • Toiletries
  • Advice, information and support
  • Free international phone calls
  • Healthcare, podiatry and opticians
  • A salon service offering haircuts, hair styling, beard trims and nail care
  • Computer access, printing and support to get online
  • Creative sessions
  • Films and TV
  • Games, quizzes and bingo
  • Sports (including a football tournament!)

Accommodation

Crisis at Christmas accommodation is for guests who are sleeping rough. 

If you have clients who are on the streets and need accommodation over the Christmas period, please ask them to contact their outreach worker, who can organise a referral to us.

Terms & Conditions – #NorthbankMural

Terms & Conditions – #NorthbankMural Instagram Competition

Promoters: The Northbank Business Improvement District (Registered office address: 54 Wilton Road, London SW1V 1DE)

1. To participate in this competition, users must share a photo on their Instagram channel of a picture of one of the Northbank Mural and tag @TheNorthbankBID in their post.  

By using the hashtag #NorthbankMural when resharing our image to Instagram, you consent to your image or video being reshared on the @thenorthbankbid social account.

This competition will run from 00:00 on Wednesday day 13th December 2023 until 23:59 on Monday 18th December 2023. Entries made by direct, replies to this T&C page will not be accepted.

2. There will be 1 winner who will be selected at random, after the competition deadline of Monday 18th December 2023, who has fulfilled the criteria in 1) above. Entries made after this point will not be counted.

3. The contest is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) over except for the Promoters employees, all contractors and families or anyone directly connected with the organisation, and operators of its brands and concessions.

4. The prize gift will be Bridgit’s Bakery Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour for 4 people

5. Only children from 5 years old are allowed on-board the tea bus.

6. Anyone under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult

7. Tables on the bus must be reserved in advance using the voucher reference number and the voucher expires 22 May 2024.

8. If you are the lucky winner, you will need to provide your full name, email address and contact phone number as instructed at the time of being announced as our winner. Further details will then be provided by the promoters as to how you claim your prize.

9. We reserve the right to provide an alternative prize of equal or greater value in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

10. Only one entry per person will be accepted. In the event of multiple entries being received from the same Instagram account, the first entry only will be accepted.

11. No purchase is necessary; however, you will need an internet connection and access to Instagram. No refund may be claimed for expenses incurred in participating in the promotion, including in relation to the use of the internet.

12. We reserve the right to exclude any entries which we believe to be inappropriate, fraudulent, or based on misconduct.

13. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for any cash alternatives in whole or in part.

14. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize from the date that they are announced as a winner. After this time, we reserve the right to select a new winner.

15. The decisions of the promoters are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

16. By taking part in this promotion, all participants consent to us collecting, storing and using their personal data submitted with their entry for the purposes of this promotion.

17. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be used for marketing purposes without the individual’s prior consent.

18. The winner’s name can be obtained by sending an SAE and covering letter to: The Northbank Business Improvement District,54 Wilton Road, London SW1V 1DE, after the closure of the promotion.

19. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. You are providing your information to The Northbank Business Improvement District and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion, you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.

20. The promoters do not accept responsibility for entries that are lost, damaged or delayed. For example, as a result of network, system development, computer or telecommunications failures or fault of any kind – including any hardware, programming code, databases or software used in the promotion.

21. Winners may be required to participate in related publicity without further reward. E.g. be photographed for website/newspaper stories, provide a short statement about their win.

22. The promoters reserve the right to withdraw or amend without notice this promotion in the event of any unforeseen circumstances outside of its reasonable control.

24. This promotion and these terms and conditions are governed by English law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

25. This promotion is subject to Instagram’s terms of services which can be found at: https://help.instagram.com/581066165581870

New Plan To Tackle Empty Shops In London’s Historic Strand District

Image Credit: @sebarnolddesign

A Strand West Taskforce, made up of members from Westminster City Council, Transport for London, The Northbank BID and property owners, is being established to deliver a 5-year strategy for investment and public realm enhancement across the area stretching from Trafalgar Square to Lancaster Place.

The Taskforce will be focused on delivering a number of measures outlined in a new report commissioned by the Northbank Business Improvement District, Unlocking Potential: Ground Floor Land Use Strategy for the Northbank BID, to identify ways to unlock the potential of Strand and create a sense of place and destination. With links to the river and Covent Garden, the area – which includes Bedford Street, Southampton Street, and Villiers Street – is a key thoroughfare for London workers, residents, and visitors.

But a slow return of office workers to the area has resulted in a substantial level of vacant floor space and a decline in retail offer. Traditional fashion and comparison use has given way to convenience and casual grab-and-go food and drink. In response, the report explores how ground floor space in existing buildings can be better used and adapted to facilitate long-term value creation and increased leasings, with a series of actions for each of the streets.

Informed by the report findings, the taskforce will work to deliver a number of public realm improvements, including:

· Appointing a Central Leasing Advisor to better curate new leasings and tenant mix strategies

· Increasing al fresco dining spots

· Establishing a pop up programme to reduce the number of empty units

· Creating an events programme to encourage greater footfall, dwell time and linked experiences

· Tackling barriers to leasing relating to historic planning conditions, legal agreements, and licensing

CEO of the Northbank BID, Ruth Duston, comments: “Like many places across the country, The Northbank was hit hard by Covid-19, with retail and leisure hurt by lockdown and new hybrid

working models impacting footfall. But the reality is that demand for street-level space was changing across the city pre-pandemic, largely due to increased competition from e-commerce and shifting expectations of consumers for the overall environment and experience.

“As the recent success at Strand Aldwych has shown, partnership is key to delivering coherent large-scale programmes. This is the next step in our ambitious vision for Northbank BID, creating a more vibrant district for future generations and celebrating its historic place in the heart of London.”

Westminster City Councillor, James Small-Edwards added: “The Strand has a rich heritage and it is fantastic to see this initiative bringing an even greater sense of identity, as well as increased investment, to the area.

“It also fits with Westminster City Council’s Fairer Economy plans and principles of good growth, a core focus for us. We look forward to working with The Northbank and other Taskforce members on this project.”

ENDS

A Message from Ruth Duston OBE, OC

I am thrilled to share that the Northbank BID, in partnership with Westminster City Council, has scooped ‘The Mayor’s Award for Good Growth’ for the transformational Strand Aldwych scheme. The Business LDN Planning Awards were held last night and the team were delighted to scoop the major award of the night, along with the award for ‘Best Heritage or Culture Project’ and a commendation for ‘Best Project for Sustainable Planning’.
 
This incredible result reflects years of hard work by the Northbank team, the dedication of Westminster City Council and a large number of committed partners who believed in our shared vision for the area, and the opportunity that could be unlocked by taking it forward. I believe it is through this close collaborative working that projects of this scale and impact are able to be delivered so quickly and so successfully. LDA’s understanding of the location and sensitive design has created a safer, pedestrianised public space, a new creative hub for our capital and a backdrop for world-class events. The space has been opened up for workers, visitors, residents and future generations to enjoy. 

This recognition continues to demonstrate how BIDs and the private sector can be true catalysts for change. Proposals driven by BIDs, followed by close working and open dialogue between partners allow the space for these projects to take shape and be delivered positively. I am delighted so many are recognising the quality of the scheme and look forward to working on many future projects with Westminster City Council and our partners.
 

Royal Coronation

London was abuzz with excitement this past weekend, as our new monarch was crowned in Westminster Abbey with the obligatory pomp and ceremony that we are known the world over for. Whether you are a monarchist or not, it was an incredibly well-organised event and an important moment for the nation to come together to soak up the atmosphere, relish the patriotic festivities and show off London at its very best.

It was of course especially crucial for our hospitality, leisure and retail businesses with the increased footfall expected, particularly following such a difficult few years.

This historic moment in British history has proven to be a magnet at home and abroad. The online travel agency Opodo say they saw a 121 per cent increase in searches for trips to the capital for the bank holiday weekend compared to the same period last year. Premier Inn said all its rooms in Westminster sold out in 15 minutes after the coronation date was announced in January, and across the country, a four per cent boost in retail footfall was predicted by experts MRI Springboard. Incredibly, Brewer Greene King expected to pull 1.8 million pints in its 1,600 pubs during the celebrations!

In readiness for the influx of visitors, the capital put on a world class show, with flags and decorations, picnics, art installations, special tea parties and much more, to entertain visitors and Londoners. Across London, I am proud to see how the public and private sectors are working together to showcase London at its very best, with Business Improvement Districts leading the way.

In Westminster, the focus of the ceremonial events, the London Heritage Quarter BIDs kicked off a Nature Trail to mark the King’s longstanding commitment to the environment. This trail features sculptures of a Squirrel, Hare and Badger, found in Christchurch, Lower Grosvenor and Whitehall Gardens, enabling visitors to experience the processional route in a different way. The trail launched for the coronation, will expand and continue right through until August. The BIDs also worked with local business volunteers to ‘Smarten and Sparkle’ key locations throughout the footprint in advance of the influx of visitors over the weekend.

The experience of visiting our great city matters – it matters to workers, tourists and residents alike. The better the experience, the more likely it is to be vibrant and prosperous. Moments such as the coronation are of course an opportunity to put a spotlight on the capital, but the real opportunity is to create world class experiences all year-round. I know from seeing the work of BIDs across the city that there are exciting plans in the pipeline, from public realm improvements to high profile cultural events, all aiming to make London the best city in the world to visit and do business in.

So, having enjoyed the celebrations of the past few days, let’s also celebrate the reawakening of our capital and the role we are all playing in its resurgence. The last few years have been challenging, but together we are pulling together to support our businesses, attract new investment and welcome tourists back once again.

Terms and Conditions – King’s Coronation

Terms & Conditions – #KingOfNature Instagram Competition

Promoters: The Northbank Business Improvement District (Registered office address: 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH) & Victoria Business Improvement District (Registered office address: 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH)

1. To participate in this competition, users must share a photo on their Instagram channel of a picture of one of the nature trail installations and tag @TheNorthbankBID and @VictoriaBID with #KingOfNature in their post.  

By using the hashtag #KingofNature when resharing our image to Instagram, you consent to your image or video being reshared on the @thenorthbankbid & @VictoriaBID social accounts.

This competition will run from 00:00 on Monday 1st May 2023 until 23:59 Sunday 6th August 2023 Entries made by direct reply to this T&C page will not be accepted.

2. There will be 1 winner who will be selected at random, after the competition deadline of 23:59 Sunday 6th August 2023 on, who has fulfilled the criteria in 1) above. Entries made after this point will not be counted.

3. The contest is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) over except for the Promoters employees, all contractors and families or anyone directly connected with the organisation, and operators of its brands and concessions.

4. The prize gift will be a 4 ticket family prize to see Wicked at The Apollo Victoria Theatre, London

5. If you are the lucky winner, you will need to provide your full name, email address and contact phone number as instructed at the time of being announced as our winner. Further details will then be provided by the promoters as to how you claim your prize.

6. We reserve the right to provide an alternative prize of equal or greater value in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

7. Only one entry per person will be accepted. In the event of multiple entries being received from the same Instagram account, the first entry only will be accepted.

8. No purchase is necessary; however, you will need an internet connection and access to Instagram. No refund may be claimed for expenses incurred in participating in the promotion, including in relation to the use of the internet.

9. We reserve the right to exclude any entries which we believe to be inappropriate, fraudulent, or based on misconduct.

10. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for any cash alternatives in whole or in part.

11. The prize tickets are subject to availability and are valid for a Sunday to Friday 7.30pm or Wednesday 2:30pm performance until 7 January 2024 excluding 4 July – 3 September, 24 – 29 October and 18 – 31 December 2023 (no performances Mondays). The date and time are not confirmed until a booking reference number has been received.

12. Prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash.

13. Transport and accommodation not included. Recommended age is 7+. Anyone under the age of 3 years of age will not be admitted, under any circumstance. Everyone entering the theatre will require a ticket. .

14. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize from the date that they are announced as a winner. After this time, we reserve the right to select a new winner.

15. The decisions of the promoters are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

16. By taking part in this promotion, all participants consent to us collecting, storing and using their personal data submitted with their entry for the purposes of this promotion.

17. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be used for marketing purposes without the individual’s prior consent.

18. The winner’s name can be obtained by sending an SAE and covering letter to: The Northbank Business Improvement District, 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH, after closure of the promotion.

19. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. You are providing your information to The Northbank Business Improvement District and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion, you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.

20. The promoters do not accept responsibility for entries that are lost, damaged or delayed. For example, as a result of network, system development, computer or telecommunications failures or fault of any kind – including any hardware, programming code, databases or software used in the promotion.

21. Winners may be required to participate in related publicity without further reward. E.g.: be photographed for website/newspaper stories, provide a short statement about their win.

22. The promoters reserve the right to withdraw or amend without notice this promotion in the event of any unforeseen circumstances outside of its reasonable control.

24. This promotion and these terms and conditions are governed by English law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

25. This promotion is subject to Instagram’s terms of services which can be found at: https://www.instagram.com/about/legal/terms/before-january-19-2013/

His Majesty King Charles III Coronation

The Coronation of His Majesty the King and Her Majesty Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6th May 2023.

The City of Westminster will now become the focal point for the forthcoming Coronation and the arrangements for this will have a significant impact on the area during this time with travel and normal business activity restricted.

We are in regular communication with partners at The Metropolitan Police, Westminster City Council and other statutory bodies so will serve as the primary conduit of verified information to our business community.

We will be using our Northbank Emergency Notification System for all future correspondence so please register your details here in order to receive further information via email, SMS and in-app messaging.

To contact us with any enquiries please email info@thenorthbank.london.

Latest Updates:

  • 04/05/23 – A map showing the extent of vehicle restrictions being implemented from 1900hrs on the 5th May is available here
  • 25/04/23 – Further information has been released concerning the arrangements for the Coronation of King Charles III from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. This letter explains the extent of pedestrian and vehicle restrictions in the days preceding and the day of the Coronation.If your premises falls within the dedicated event area (see page 4) you should receive a separate letter in the post regarding the specific restrictions for your location. If you have not received this letter by Thursday 27th April please contact info@thenorthbank.london

Women’s night safety walks

Walks have been set up to bring together women who live, work, visit and study in Westminster to establish a checklist of factors that may impact the safety of women at night.  We will use the recommendations and feedback to create approaches that will improve women’s safety and the safety of other vulnerable groups.  We are currently working with specialist groups to ensure our walks engage with a diverse range of people. We are committed to gaining representation from LGBT+ communities, people of colour, disabled individuals, and families. If you are interested in joining us for our night safety walks, please fill out our form. If you would like to know more about how you can support our initiative, please email us: nightsafe@westminster.gov.uk 

Youth Steering Group – Centre Stage

In early 2022 The Northbank, Victoria, Victoria Westminster and Whitehall Business Improvement Districts jointly created a ‘Youth Steering Group’ to guide our work and support the development of young people across Westminster. It comprises 16-24 year olds from a variety of backgrounds who live or work in the borough and are seeking opportunities to learn, develop skills or start their careers. 

On 15th February we arranged for fifteen of the group to attend a ‘Centre Stage’ workshop run by BID-member The Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG). This took place at the Fortune Theatre and covered: 

• Asserting influence and empowering others 

• Presence and being able to command a space 

• Increasing confidence and communicating effectively 

• Giving feedback 

• Understanding physical presence and body language 

• Improving the use of voice and breathing 

• Creative problem solving 

The workshop enabled the young people to bring West End theatre confidence tools and use them in corporate settings – whether an interview, meeting or networking event – helping to better showcase themselves.  

As one of ATG’s flagship venues, The Lyceum Theatre kindly treated the group afterwards to a showing of The Lion King with full VIP treatment at the Lyceum Lounge; their first-ever outing to a theatre production for many of them.

Sophie said, “The trip was brilliant, it really expanded the way I think and added so many words to my vocabulary.” 

Rahkim said, “Thank you so much for the call, I really appreciate it. I wanted to say that the event was extremely helpful and really impacted me. I felt more confident to the point where I just let go and faced my fears of doing any sort of speech in front of people and just did it. The event was also very fun and something which I’d definitely do again.” 

If you’re a local business and would like to find out how you can support our Youth Steering Group please contact our Social Responsibility Manager, Ebony

Five More Years Of Partnership For The Northbank

Multi-million pound investment plans secured with ballot result announced today

Local businesses in The Northbank have voted overwhelmingly in favour of renewing The Northbank Business Improvement District (BID) for a third consecutive term.

Of those businesses that voted, 95% voted ‘yes’ at the ballot (98% by rateable value), setting a strong mandate for the BID to continue to deliver its ambitious strategic and operational improvements of the area.

The ballot result endorses the key achievements of the BID over the past 10 years, after its establishment in 2013, and increases support for an aligned partnership approach across this key part of London.  

The BID team, led by specialist regeneration expert Ruth Duston, OBE, OC, will work with the local authority and other key stakeholders to deliver The Northbank 2023-2028 vision that was published in advance of the ballot being held.

The BID’s work will continue to enhance the area’s important position as a key destination in London; with vital transport links, a history of culture and a vibrant leisure offering. Approximately £10.1 million will be invested into the area over the BID’s third term, bringing the BID’s lifetime investment to over £35 million. Over the past ten years £25.8m in external investment has also been secured by the BID to deliver transformational schemes such as Strand Aldwych – a project that the BID championed, facilitated and part-funded since 2013. This was delivered in partnership with Westminster City Council and other local stakeholders, converting busy roadways into a welcoming public space measuring more than 7000m2 along the Strand, complemented by a vastly improved experience for pedestrians across Aldwych.

The Northbank has experienced 10 year growth of 42% to generate £4.5 billion in GVA and contributes £134 million in business rates to the Exchequer every year.

The Northbank BID will be investing in a range of strategic and operational projects and will focus on four aims:

  1. Create a more environmentally sustainable business district and tackle climate change in line with the City of Westminster’s ambition for a net zero borough by 2040.
  2. Drive the continued post-pandemic recovery by supporting the return of office occupiers to the workplace, reviving international tourism, addressing recruitment challenges in the hospitality sector and helping the local economy adapt to new consumer profiles and behaviour.
  3. Maintain our role as an important bridge between the private and public sector, enabling partnerships that drive positive change not only in the BID area but also the wider community.
  4. Use the collective strength of ‘London HQ’ – a collaboration with neighbouring south Westminster BIDs – to lobby for continued local and central government investment in The Northbank, keeping London at the forefront of our economy.

Ruth Duston OBE OC, Chief Executive of The Northbank BID said:

“We are incredibly grateful to all those who took part in the ballot process – from our initial consultation in summer 2022 right the way through to the vote itself – and we look forward to another five years of delivering services in support of our members. Our on-street and destination marketing teams will continue to create an exemplary experience for visitors and workers alike, and we’ve already begun to develop a programme of improvements to the Strand and Riverfront that will be implemented over the coming term. At the heart of achieving all this will be a commitment to building a responsible business district that supports the wider Westminster community and prioritises environmental sustainability.”

ENDS

About The Northbank BID:

The Northbank is the geographical centre of London, connecting Parliament with the City, and is meeting point for many lines of transport. The Northbank is one of London’s most prestigious BIDs, having the largest proportion of listed buildings and of the capital’s architectural icons, aligned around the main processional route and interlinked through a web of courtyards and alleyways. The BID acts as a catalyst for the area it represents, providing strategic leadership within the London context and providing businesses with the tools and resources to champion the district.

thenorthbank.london

A message from Chief Executive, Ruth Duston OBE,OC 

As another year draws to a close, I am reminded of the amazing work going on across London, through BIDs. Collective will is continuing to transform communities, set the agenda and drive the capital’s renaissance.


Across London HQ there have been many highlights, but I wanted to shine a light on just a few, and crucially thank the entire London HQ family, our partners, businesses, and wider stakeholders. London continues to face challenges – and opportunities – and BIDs are at the forefront of how the capital is responding. It’s a privilege to be working with so many committed and talented people, everyone working to ensure London remains the best city in the world to do business.
 
My Top Highlights of 2022:

  • A year of royal focus in London HQ, starting with our incredibly popular giant Corgi trail to mark the Platinum Jubilee, and then witnessing the incredible performance of the BIDs in responding to the tragic death of Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Working with partners to deliver ‘Operation London Bridge’ the team worked around the clock engaging with our business communities and visitors to keep the area safe, accessible, and welcoming. The BID team worked closely with partners including the Metropolitan Police and Westminster City Council to communicate verified information to our business community through email and our Victoria and Northbank Emergency Notification Systems. Across the period 25 updates were sent which included information on road closures and access procedures – we saw a 53% increase in users of the platform. Our Ambassadors played an important role in supporting the huge number of mourners who visited the area, having thousands of interactions with members of the public over just a few days. Ambassadors in Victoria had over 7,103 interactions, +235% on the previous 12 days and Northbank Ambassadors had 2,111 interactions, +256%. Our Ambassadors also distributed walking maps to stewarding staff, military personnel and police officers to help their engagement with the public. 1,500 maps were distributed in Northbank and 3,000 in Victoria, Westminster and Whitehall.
  • BIDs across the capital are now front and centre when it comes to delivering activity to drive the Destination Marketing agenda. This work is especially notable with seasonal campaigns in the summer and crucially at Christmas. Across London HQ it was wonderful to see the festive lights, trees, and events taking place over the last few weeks.
  • I am hugely proud of what we have achieved at Strand Aldwych. Transforming the Strand Aldwych has been something talked about for more than 30 years, but for various reasons the project was put in the ‘too difficult’ box and never progressed. To see how collective will has moved into collective action, driven by the efforts of the BID working in partnership with Westminster and other key stakeholders, is incredibly rewarding and demonstrates the powerful force for good that BIDs can be. Over the last decade, the BID has invested around £1m, being the catalyst for the significant capital investment made by Westminster City Council. Discover more about Strand Aldwych here.

2023 will be busy and not without its fair share of uncertainty, not least with the ongoing industrial dispute that I hope gets resolved as soon as possible, but I believe in this city’s resilience and ability to adapt and grow. I hope you all enjoy the festive break with friends, family and loved ones, and wish everyone health and happiness for the new year.

Severe Weather Emergency Protocol

The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been activated due to the decrease in overnight temperatures recently, which gives rough sleepers access to emergency cold weather accommodation.

If you are concerned about an individual in the area the best way to help is to talk to them and make a referral to Streetlink, finding out their name and any other information if possible.

Your referral will then be picked up by Outreach teams who will go and visit the individual and begin to help them.

You can also get in touch with the BIDs’ Community Intervention Team, if you are worried about an individual, by phoning the team on 0207 592 1851 or emailing: communityinterventionteam@passage.org.uk.

Medical Responders

To coincide with Christmas and the Met police and BTP focus on Violence Against Women and Girls, the London HQ BIDs will support Charing Cross and Victoria Station with medical responders.

The responders will work 6 days a week starting at 5 pm and finishing at 1:30 am.  They will cover the concourse and outside perimeter in both areas. In Charing Cross, they will also cover Villiers Street and Embankment Station as our security teams have helped a number of vulnerable females there in recent weeks.

There will be 3 responders based at each station throughout December, who will carry a Network Rail radio to enable them to get to patients quickly. 1 of the responders will be found in the medical room of the stations.

The medical responders will work closely with the Night Stars on a Friday night and It will also ease pressure on LAS at a busy time of year with party season in full swing.

Advent Calendar – 12th December – Prize 2

Win 2 Tickets to Hidden London Walking Tours from London Transport Museum

Advent Calendar day 12

Win 2 Tickets to Hidden London Walking Tours from London Transport Museum

T&Cs Apply. Secrets of London. https://www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/hidden-london/secrets-central-london-walking-tour

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

The winner will be contacted the following working day via email.

#ChristmasinLondonHQ

New Immersive Audio Installation Celebrates The History Of Radio And Marks BBC Centenary

The VoiceLine by Nick Ryan launches in major new public space in central London

  • The new Strand Aldwych public space is set to open after a major transformation project, led by Westminster Council, with the unveiling of its first artist commission: The VoiceLine by Somerset House Studios resident artist, Nick Ryan
  • The audio installation, commissioned by The Northbank BID, is delivered in partnership with the BBC, and inspired by the historical broadcasting legacy of the area – with Marconi House the location of the BBC’s first broadcast on 14 November 1922
  • The Strand Aldwych transformation seeks to establish a new creative thinking quarter, a space for collective innovation and experimentation. Westminster Council has been supported by a Joint Project Board made up of local stakeholders, businesses and world-class cultural and educational institutions, including the likes of the Northbank BID, Kings College London, Somerset House Trust, St Mary Le Strand, LSE, 180 Strand and The Courtauld.
  • The project dramatically improves air quality, opening up access, enhancing the local environment and creating a new world class destination for London.

A new audio installation has been announced to celebrate the opening of a major new public space for London and marking the BBC’s centenary.

Launching on 7th December, The VoiceLine by Somerset House Studios resident artist Nick Ryan, will be the first artist commission for the new Strand Aldwych public space and will be in situ for the next three months. The transformation of Strand Aldwych in the heart of Westminster has seen the ancient route adapted to become a modern meeting point and people-focused destination, which will be regularly animated by events, installations, and a series of artist commissions and research. Here art, performance and research will emerge and evolve, breaking down walls and creating a new platform for sharing knowledge.

The VoiceLine is a unique instrument for voice, sound, music, and audio storytelling, shaped by the new site and spanning the length of the space (170m). A rich programme of bespoke audio works will be created for a daily schedule, between 8am-8pm, creating an evolving pathway of sound delivered by a line of 39 highly focused speakers. 

The installation will be brought to life through a unique partnership with the BBC, during its centenary year. Located close to Marconi House from where the BBC first broadcast on 14 November 1922 and running past Bush House, the former home of BBC World Service, The VoiceLine will engage the public with voices from the past, drawing on the early innovations of radio, the famous voices of the news and nation, and the multitude tongues of the BBC World Service. The Voiceline will draw on the vast resources of the BBC audio archive as well as the multilayered histories of the Strand delivering a unique spatial sound work comprising archive, original recordings and compositions.

Among the many sounds that visitors will encounter include some of the earliest radio broadcasts, the voices of women pioneer broadcasters, memories of Bush House, spatial urban field recordings of cities around the world, natural environments from the forests of Canada to the sound of melting ice in the Artic, visions of the future gathered from Kings College London students, recreations of the Strand’s pre-industrial traffic, experiments with sound from The BBC Radiophonic Workshop and others, and the mysterious utterances of ‘Number Stations’ coded messages broadcast by foreign intelligence agencies.

Nick Ryan, composer, sound designer, audio specialist, and the artist behind The VoiceLine, said:

Over the next 100 years the sound of cities will change beyond recognition and perhaps for the first time we are able to choose how our public spaces should sound. The VoiceLine installation and its novel sound technologies enable us to transform a thoroughfare (that for the last 300 hundred years has been known only for the disruptive sound of vehicles) into a continuously evolving auditory world with immersive sounds of voices nature and music. I hope the unique sound instrument I’ve created will identify Strand once again as an iconic destination for listening. The VoiceLine celebrates the histories of radio and listening that began on Strand 100 years ago and changed the world.” 

The project has created a generous, welcoming, and inspirational place for residents, visitors, students, and workers, where the valuable cultural assets in the local area will be harnessed, bringing knowledge, innovation, art, and performance into the public realm to create a revitalised cultural and educational district for London. Stretching more than 350m in length – more than four times longer than Leicester Square and about the same size of a football pitch – the Strand Aldwych space includes a variety of areas that will increase interaction and dwell times, including social seating, workstations and collective dining, an activity lawn and garden room.

Ruth Duston, OBE, OC, CEO of the Northbank Business Improvement District, said:

Seeing collective will shift into collective action for this project has been incredibly rewarding for the BID. Beyond the opening of the new meanwhile public space in December and the launch of The VoiceLine, this will remain a partnership project, from curation of the space to the management of it. The continued collaborative process will undoubtedly deliver better activation and management of the new space, ensuring wider views are heard, innovation is embraced, and that we ultimately create a space that is welcoming, accessible and I hope, beloved by all.  

This meanwhile scheme enables us to test new concepts and activities. The permanent Strand Aldwych scheme is still very much in play, but deliverable only through partnership, with the private sector recognising the valuable contribution such spaces make to the vibrancy of the area.”

Jonathan Reekie, Director of Somerset House Trust, and chair of the Strand Aldwych Joint Project Board and the Activation & Curation steering group, said:

Somerset House has been delighted to play a leading part with many other local public and private stakeholders in this special partnership to create a new public space for London. The vision is routed in the locality drawing on the unique mix of history, community, world class culture and learning. It is a space that will draw from the past and help us shape the future of our great city. This intervention vastly improves air quality and will reveal to locals, Londoners and visitors, a vibrant and under-appreciated corner of London.”

Robert Seatter, BBC Head of History said:

“The BBC is delighted to be marking its centenary year with this rich and thrilling soundwork, taking inspiration from the birth of BBC Radio at Marconi House and celebrating the transformative power of audio in all our lives. Working from 100 years of BBC audio, Nick Ryan has conjured myriad new worlds, collapsing time and space in surprising and utterly insightful ways.”

Geoff Barraclough, Westminster City Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Economy, said: “In this exciting new Westminster destination, surrounded by much beautiful architecture and deep-rooted history, we are seeing the opening of a space for contemporary public culture in central London. 

 “An important part of the vision for Strand Aldwych was to carve out a space for free and accessible art and allow the creative ideas from the world-leading neighbouring institutions to spill out into public space. 

“The VoiceLine will be the first of many creative ventures that will act as a draw for visitors from the city and beyond to enjoy the Northbank and explore further, the many other delights nearby.”

Notes to Editors

For more information and further images please contact the Northbank BID press office: abigail.smith@mhpc.com ; 07710 845 531

Architects visualisation credit: Claudia Fragoso

Joint Project Board partnership: Ambassador Theatre Group, The Courtauld Institute of Art, Delfont Mackintosh, Derwent, Duchy of Lancaster, Farebrother, FM Conway, JLL, Kings, LDA, London Anglican & Archdeacon of London representative, London First / Business LDN, LSE, Northbank BID, NRP, One Aldwych, Royal Courts of Justice, SOLT, Somerset House, St Mary le Strand, TfL, Vinyl Factory (180 Strand), Waldorf Hilton, WCC, WSP

About Strand Aldwych:

In 2015, the Northbank BID commissioned a public realm vision, which would establish an overarching framework for the project. In 2017 the Place Shaping team at Westminster Council commenced work. Since then, a comprehensive feasibility, design and consultation process has been carried out. In 2020 Westminster Council committed £18 million towards the design and delivery of Aldwych 2-Way and a “meanwhile” version of the new public space, further funding has been provided by local partners. The permanent scheme, with high quality paving and bespoke furniture, is due to follow in 2-3 years’ time, with additional private sector investment playing a vital role in delivering this final phase.

About Nick Ryan:

Nick Ryan is a multi-disciplinary artist, composer and sound designer widely recognised for exploring the future of audio and listening through his novel sound installations, film sound design, bespoke sound instruments, generative music compositions and interactive audio experiences. Nick is the recipient of an Emmy for Sound Design (2022), a BAFTA for Technical Innovation (2003) and is currently an artist in residence at Somerset House Studios, London.

https://www.nickryanmusic.com/about-1

About L-Acoustics Creations:

L-Acoustics Creations is a division of L-Acoustics, the world leader in premium sound systems for live events and large-scale architectural projects. L-Acoustics Creations designs exceptional sound systems and immersive sound spaces for residential, architectural and experiential environments. For over 30 years, L-Acoustics has been developing innovative sound systems and technologies that elevate the listening experience. Recognized for pioneering the line array, the current audio standard for large-scale live events, L-Acoustics continues to shape the future of sound with L-ISA Immersive Hyperreal Sound technology, offering multi-dimensional audio.

creations.l-acoustics.com / l-isa.l-acoustics.com / l-acoustics.com

Strand Aldwych – Creating a Smart District. Workshop for local organisations to shape the area Data Springboard – 17th November

The Data Springboard project is a collaboration between King’s College London and Westminster City Council to enable data sharing relevant to the Strand Aldwych redevelopment. It aims to exchange, generate and steward various data types, and ensure participatory and engaging governance over data in the Strand-Aldwych community. This workshop will present the current development of the Data Springboard concept and what benefits we anticipate for the community, and then continue that discussion with you. It will be an opportunity for everyone who is interested to understand the plans for and the benefits of data sharing, and for us to hear from you about your expectations of what data should be shared, how and with whom.

If you’d like to find out more please email the public realm

                        

                                         

Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop Christmas Afternoon Tea at Strand Palace

Strand Palace has teamed up with traditional toyshop Benjamin Pollocks to launch a great value, family-friendly Christmas afternoon tea, packed with vintage fun and games to delight children and make nostalgic adults smile this festive season. Pollocks is a renowned London institution, famed for selling Victorian-style toy theatres since 1856, with a store in Covent Garden’s Piazza hall just a 4min walk from the hotel.

Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop Christmas Afternoon Tea starts from just £39 for adults and £19 for children (up to 12 years) and includes seasonal finger sandwiches, freshly baked plain & fruit scones and pastries inspired by traditional fairy tales and folklore such as ‘Sugar Plum fairy’s gold dusted chocolate and praline éclair’ and ‘Toymaker’s strawberry and vanilla yo-yo macaron’.  For an extra sweet treat children will also receive a goodie bag to take home including a themed colouring sheet and pencils, a miniature Pollock’s cut-out theatre, plus a surprise toy to continue the play experience at home worth up to RRP £10.00 (examples include a traditional wooden tea party biscuit set or play theatre tickets). Also included in the goodie bag is a ticket that can be redeemed at Pollock’s Covent Garden toy store for a lucky dip (children) or a 20% discount (adults). Vegan and gluten-free menus will also be available as well as the option for adults to upgrade to a glass of bubbles for £8.

Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop Christmas Afternoon Tea starts from 7th November until the 31st December, served daily from 12:00 to 17:00 (last serving at 16:00), and will take place in Haxells Tearoom, situated within Strand Palace, located on the Strand. The art deco themed tearoom will be decked out with festive designs, including traditional nutcrackers, pop-up theatre-style menus and a Christmas tree tea stand. Hotel guests and passers-by alike can also enjoy the Pollock’s themed fun with a pop-up theatre selfie booth in the lobby which guests are encouraged to share on social media tagging @StrandPalace and @Benjamin_Pollocks_Toyshop to be in with a chance to win prizes of afternoon tea for two or a night at Strand Palace (subject to T&Cs).

Any guest who books a Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop Christmas Afternoon Tea will also have the option to enter into a grand prize draw to win the ultimate Pollock’s treasure box of games and goodies, worth RRP £60.00, plus a night’s stay at the hotel in a family/studio room worth £450 (subject to T&Cs).

In an effort to spread a little Christmas cheer beyond the hotel, Strand Palace will donate any excess goodie bags or toys that older children might like to re-house to The Toy Project’s ‘No Present Too Small’ drive. This charity initiative provides Christmas gifts to children in care and families in difficult circumstances across London.

A destination toyshop unlike any other, Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop brings theatre to life through play. Originally founded by Mr Pollock over 150 years ago, having moved around central London, it found its home in the Covent Garden Piazza hall and is now one of the few remaining traditional toy shops in the West End. Customers can re-live their childhood memories or make new ones through the classic toys, music boxes, puppets, books or the shop’s own range of theatres and paper models designed by contemporary artists. Pollocks are most famous for their Victorian toy theatres, known back then as ‘Juvenile Drama’, and originally made as souvenirs of live theatre to create further entertainment at home. Pollocks also specialise in shadow boxes, 3-D pictures to cut-out inspired by vintage toy construction sheets. Families will get a real ‘taste’ of the charm, history and magic of Pollocks through the many enjoyable elements of this afternoon tea experience.

The iconic Strand Palace hotel has been welcoming guests since 1909 in the heart of central London, only a stone’s throw from Covent Garden making it the perfect place to experience a merry afternoon tea after a spot of Christmas shopping, or before catching a nearby pantomime or musical.

For more information, to view the full menu or book Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop Christmas Afternoon Tea at Strand Palace visit https://www.strandpalacehotel.co.uk/strand-palace/christmas-afternoon-tea.html

Positive Moment in the Northbank

On 12th October one of our security team, Marcello helped police detain a suspect causing ASB in the Strand area. Our security team member helped to control the suspect until extra officers arrived. Checks were made and the male was wanted on recall to prison for a serious offence. He was arrested and sent back to prison.

Our security patrol team work 7 days a week from 6:30am to 11:30pm providing a responsive service to help tackle low-level crime and anti-social behaviour. Our security team can be contacted via the Northbank radio scheme. To request a free radio please email lauren@thenorthbank.london

A message from our Chief Executive


A message from Ruth Duston, OBE, OC:

“The news of the passing of Her Late Majesty the Queen was a moment of shock and sadness for us all, and it also kick started a plan that had been developed over very many years. The activation of Operation London Bridge (OLB) provided challenges but our teams worked tirelessly over the period to support our business community.

Over the two weeks between the news of Her Late Majesty’s passing to the State Funeral, our cleaning teams focused on main gateways and transport hubs and our Ambassadors were deployed to these locations too.

Across the OLB period our Ambassadors played an important role supporting the huge number of mourners who visited the area, having thousands of interactions with members of the public over just a few days. Northbank: 2,111 interactions, +256%. Our Ambassadors also distributed walking maps to stewarding staff, military personnel and police officers to help their engagement with the public. 1,500 maps were distributed in Northbank.

The BID team also worked closely with partners including the Metropolitan Police and Westminster City Council to communicate verified information to our business community through email and our Northbank Emergency Notification System. Across the period 25 updates were sent which included information on road closures and access procedures – we saw a 53% increase in users of the platform. We will continue to use our Emergency Notification System during future security incidents and other major events, to provide businesses with fast, accurate intelligence and information. To sign up to receive future alerts click here.

Lastly, I would like to thank our incredible business community who helped to welcome the world during such an important time, showcasing the best of what our capital has to offer.”

The Fourth Plinth

The Fourth Plinth

The Fourth Plinth is one of the world’s most famous public art commissions.
It plays an important role in bringing contemporary art and debate to millions for free and casting a new light on London’s most historic square. An established icon for London, it brings out the art critic in everyone.

Since launching in 1998, the Fourth Plinth has become known around the world for its diverse commissions and commentary on complex and contemporary issues.

A sculpture of a preacher who was killed in an anticolonialist uprising in what is now Malawi will be unveiled in September on the fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square.

Antelope by Samson Kambalu is the 14th contemporary artwork to be commissioned for public display in the historic central London square.

The sculpture restages a 1914 photograph of John Chilembwe, a Baptist preacher and pan-Africanist, and John Chorley, a European missionary, taken at the opening of Chilembwe’s new church in Nyasaland, now Malawi.

Chilembwe is wearing a hat in defiance of a colonial rule forbidding Africans from wearing hats in front of white people. The following year, he led an uprising against colonial rule. Chilembwe was killed and his church, which had taken years to build, was destroyed by the colonial police.

In Kambalu’s sculpture, Chilembwe is almost twice the size of Chorley, as a way of elevating his story and highlighting the distortions in conventional narratives of the British empire.

Kambalu said: “Antelope on the fourth plinth was ever going to be a litmus test for how much I belong to British society as an African and a cosmopolitan.” The commission had filled him with “excitement and joy”, he added.

He had proposed the sculpture for the fourth plinth before the Black Lives Matter movement took off in the UK, he told the BBC last month.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Alongside the rest of the country, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty The Queen and we send our condolences to her family. For 70 years, Her Majesty has been a symbol of inspiration and dignity and has reigned with supreme grace. This is a seismic moment for our country.

The City of Westminster will now become the focal point for the forthcoming state funeral, and the arrangements for this will have a significant impact on the area during this period of mourning with travel and normal business activity restricted.

We are in regular communication with partners at The Metropolitan Police, Westminster City Council and other statutory bodies so will serve as the primary conduit of verified information to our business community.

We will be using our Northbank Emergency Notification System for all future correspondence so please register your details here in order to receive further information via email, SMS and in-app messaging.

To contact us with any enquiries please email info@thenorthbank.london.

Latest Updates:

The Northbank Patrol Team help with fire at Trafalgar Square

The Northbank Security Team patrols 7 days a week from 6.30am – 11.30pm to keep the area safe and response to emergencies and low level antisocial behavior. The team responds to calls on the BID radio system, often being the first on the scene to respond to events or medical emergencies.

Security lead officer Rabih, told us about a recent incident in Trafalgar Square.

“We received a message at 18:17 about a cloud of smoke over Trafalgar Square; As Street safety officers, we put public safety at the heart of everything we do.

We went to investigate and we soon realised there was heavy smoke coming from the Admiralty Pub building on the east side of the Square. There was a very thin police presence, so we decided to stay and help out. The Police approached us asking for help. Our task was to stop the public from walking into the direction of the fire, while officers are taping the area around the Square.

We stayed for over 2hrs helping the public with directions, offering alternative routes, and keeping the public away from danger.

Slowly the fire was put out, and more heavy Police presence was established. When we were sure that the area was safe, and the police in total control, we moved on, to carry-on with our Street patrol. We left the area at 8:50”

Northbank BID members can request a free radio to contact Rabih and  the team. To join, please email emily@thenorthbank.london  

Meet John, lead Ambassador for The Northbank

Ambassadors are the face of the BID on the streets to our visitors and businesses.  Here in Northbank we are committed to building great relationships with our businesses and we are ever mindful that we are a crucial link between the BID Team and our Levy Payers. 

An excellent example of this comes from our lead Northbank Ambassador, John:

“A month ago, I visited the Temple Brew House, and spoke with Ludovica who runs both the Brew House and Daly’s, located on Essex Street.

In the conversation she mentioned that she wanted to know when Freshers’ Week (Welcome Week) is for our two colleges in Northbank, King’s and LSE, and if we had any contacts for them.  I thought this was a great opportunity to link the BID Team with Ludovica and sent an email to the Team to assist.

As a result of this connection, the BID Team personally met with Ludovica, signed her businesses up with the Privilege Card Scheme, discussed security issues and the Night Safety charter, and linked her with the colleges”

I was very proud that this one interaction and email sparked this great connection between the Ludovica, the BID Team and colleges.  This is a prime example of how my Ambassador team can really make a difference to the businesses in the area, and we are working hard to create many more of these positive stories.

To request a business visit from the Ambassador Team, please email emily@thenorthbank.london

Help us keep the Northbank clean!

During the daytime, Northbank’s clean team of friendly janitors patrol the district, keeping the area spick and span. Last month the team provided a deep clean of Villiers Street, Royal Courts of Justice and the Strand, you can really see the difference on these before and after shots!

The BID providers an on-demand janitorial service, to our members should they require one off cleaning to remove spillages, grime or graffiti. The service is available on Monday to Friday 8am – 4.30pm. To request this service just call 07934 845 503.

In the last three months, the Clean Team:

•       Swept and litter picked 7,161 blocks of pavement
•       Cleaned or removed 823 pieces of graffiti or flyposting
•       Flushed 80,756 sqm of paving with the electric flushing vehicle
•       Carried out nightly intensive washing of paving amounting to 8,800 sqm
•       Washed 161 refuse bins, cleaned parklets and gardens 418 times
•       Cleared 430 on-street waste issues, the janitorial service resolved 281 issues
•       Collected and removed 1,166 bags of rubbish and recyclable waste
•       Removed over 100 bags of leaves

Central London Bus Review

Proposed changes to bus routes in central London

Summary of route changes

TfL’s reliance on customer fares for the majority of its income means the effect of the pandemic on our finances has been devastating, requiring Government support to keep public transport in London operating. Customer numbers have begun to recover, but are still significantly below pre-pandemic levels.

The Government set a number of conditions before it would provide emergency funding to enable TfL to keep operating, including requiring them to produce a plan to set out how they would achieve significant financial savings. This plan included reducing the extent of their bus network.

Buses are the backbone of the transport network and are critically important in reducing car use, congestion, road danger and pollution. They have always adjusted their bus network to reflect our changing city, but the devastating impact of the pandemic on our finances has required a more significant review.

Their plan to achieve the savings required by the Government includes a 4% reduction in bus kilometres. Demand has reduced over the years on some roads leading into central and inner London due to changing travel patterns, which have been accelerated by the pandemic. In response to this and the savings we have been required to make, we are consulting on changes to some bus routes in and around central London.

They are consulting on withdrawing some individual bus routes or sections of routes where they are covered by other high-frequency services or are close to alternative stops. These proposals aim to ensure we still have a strong bus service to support London’s economic recovery while simplifying the network to ensure buses are operating frequently and reliably in the areas that need them most. The changes being consulted on are intended to cause as little disruption to passengers as possible while making the required savings. The Hopper Fare will continue to allow customers to change between buses within 60 minutes of starting journeys without having to pay more.

Treat Dad this Father’s Day

Don’t forget Father’s Day this June. Celebrate the special man (or men!) in your life this June 19th. We’ve collected some local offers to make things a little bit easier for you, so do take advantage.

Cashmere choice

10% off Cashmere Socks for Fathers Day

Cashmere Choice is offering Northbank Privilege Card holders 10% off cashmere socks for Father’s Day, in-store. Offer expires 16th June 2022

Pall Mall Barbers

Northbank Privilege Cardholders can receive 20% off Father & Son Bookings at Pall Mall Barbers Trafalgar Square.

To claim this offer, book online and use the discount code HAPPYFATHER20, for a service or combination of services that value over £45. Offer expires 30th June 2022.

One Aldwych

Top Gun: Maverick – Complimentary glass of English sparkling wine

Enjoy a screening of Top Gun: Maverick as you sip a glass of English Sparkling Wine in The One Aldwych Hotel’s luxury Screening Room, complete with an indulgent three-course meal in Indigo.  Offer for Northbank Privilege Card holders is an extra glass of English Sparkling wine.  Offer available on 18, 19, 22 & 23 June 2022. For availability and enquiries, please contact our Food & Beverage reservations team on 020 7300 0400

Book HERE

T’s & C’s: Cancellations, amendments and no-shows made within 72 hours of the event will incur the full charge of £75 per person to the credit card details provided at the time of reservation. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Cardholders will be asked to show their privilege card prior to the screening.

Brigit’s Bakery

Brigit’s Bakery is celebrating Father’s Day with special themed afternoon tea on our bus tours. With our traditional afternoon tea being served, and the bus beautifully decorated with fathers in mind – balloons, bow ties and of course, cake. We also serve delicious vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and halal afternoon tea options.

Capture the heart of the city’s culture, landmarks and history on our London routemaster bus, whilst sipping on a lovely cup of tea and enjoying the exquisite tastes of France. High tea is accompanied by an array of tasty sandwiches and delicious cakes and pastries. Your London bus driver will take you around Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, The Royal Albert Hall, Marble Arch, Nelson’s Column, Downing Street and more. The Father’s Day Afternoon Tea Bus London sightseeing tour lasts approximately 90 minutes (depending on traffic).

Running on Sunday 19 June 2022

Luciano by Gino D’acampo

A day to celebrate Dads and all they do for us, the perfect day to show how much you appreciate them! Join us this Father’s Day and indulge in our authentic Italian food, as well as the perfect Sunday roast. View our menu here.

The best bit, we take care of everything so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy.

Terms and Conditions – Pride

Terms & Conditions – #NorthbankTogether Instagram Competition

Promoters: The Northbank Business Improvement District (Registered office address: 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH)

1. To participate in this competition, users must share a photo on their Instagram channel with our rainbow wall in Charing Cross Station and tag @thenorthbankbid and #NorthbankTogether in their post.  

By using the hashtag #NorthbankTogether when resharing our image to Instagram, you consent to your image or video being reshared on the @thenorthbankbid social accounts.

This competition will run from 00:00 on Thursday 30th June 2022 until 23:59 Monday 4th July 2022 Entries made by direct reply to this T&C page will not be accepted.

2. There will be 1 winner who will be selected at random, after the competition deadline of 23:59pm on Monday 4th July 2022, who has fulfilled the criteria in 1) above. Entries made after this point will not be counted.

3. The contest is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) over except for the Promoters employees, all contractors and families or anyone directly connected with the organisation, and operators of its brands and concessions.

4. The prize gift will be a Film & Fizz experience at the One Aldwych Hotel (1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ)

5. If you are the lucky winner, you will need to provide your full name, email address and contact phone number as instructed at the time of being announced as our winner. Further details will then be provided by the promoters as to how you claim your prize.

6. We reserve the right to provide an alternative prize of equal or greater value in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

7. Only one entry per person will be accepted. In the event of multiple entries being received from the same Instagram account, the first entry only will be accepted.

8. No purchase is necessary; however, you will need an internet connection and access to Instagram. No refund may be claimed for expenses incurred in participating in the promotion, including in relation to the use of the internet.

9. We reserve the right to exclude any entries which we believe to be inappropriate, fraudulent, or based on misconduct.

10. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for any cash alternatives in whole or in part.

11. The prize is not valid in other food and beverage outlets other than at One Aldwych Hotel (1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ)

12. The voucher prize is only valid 48 hours after being given to the recipient and will be valid for 12 months.

13. The prize voucher contains a unique reference number which must be quoted at the time of booking and upon redemption.

14. The prize requires booking in advance.

15. The prize excludes beverages.

16. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize from the date that they are announced as a winner. After this time, we reserve the right to select a new winner.

17. The decisions of the promoters are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

18. By taking part in this promotion, all participants consent to us collecting, storing and using their personal data submitted with their entry for the purposes of this promotion.

19. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be used for marketing purposes without the individual’s prior consent.

20. The winner’s name can be obtained by sending an SAE and covering letter to: The Northbank Business Improvement District, 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH, after closure of the promotion.

21. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. You are providing your information to The Northbank Business Improvement District and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion, you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.

22. The promoters do not accept responsibility for entries that are lost, damaged or delayed. For example, as a result of network, system development, computer or telecommunications failures or fault of any kind – including any hardware, programming code, databases or software used in the promotion.

23. Winners may be required to participate in related publicity without further reward. E.g.: be photographed for website/newspaper stories, provide a short statement about their win.

24. The promoters reserve the right to withdraw or amend without notice this promotion in the event of any unforeseen circumstances outside of its reasonable control.

25. This promotion and these terms and conditions are governed by English law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

26. This promotion is subject to Instagram’s terms of services which can be found at: https://www.instagram.com/about/legal/terms/before-january-19-2013/

Corgi names

What else we have discovered in our research about the Queen and her corgis?

*Please note this is information is collated from several online and print sources and cannot be quoted as factual.

Carol – was given her name after she was born on Christmas Eve.

Crackers – was sent to Windsor Castle with the Queen and Princess Margaret during WW2 to keep the pair company until the war ended.

Dookie – is one of the most famous corgis, the first of many Welsh corgis owned by the royal family, when the Queen was just 7 years old. His name is believed to have come from the kennel maids. As a puppy he refused to eat from the same bowls as his siblings, so they started to call him ‘The Duke’, which eventually became Dookie.

Emma – her full name was Emma Moondust. Emma produced a litter of Dagger, Dipper, Jay, Linnet, Martin, Plover and Wren. The Queen gifted Emma to Bill Meldrum a man in charge of the gundogs at Sandringham.

Fergus and Muick – Fergus was a cross between a corgi and dachshund, otherwise termed a ‘dorgi’. He was named after Fergus Bowes-Lyon, the Queen’s maternal uncle who died in France during WW1. While Muick was named after Loch Muick, one of the Queen’s favourite beauty spots in Balmoral. They were both gifted to the Queen by Prince Andrew & his daughters in 2021.

Heather – from Honey’s litter, was credited as the Great Granddaughter of Susan and mother to Foxy and Tiny.

Holly – not a fan of being photographed! Despite this, she was one of the Queen’s corgis who featured alongside her in the famous James Bond sketch in the 2012 Olympic opening ceremony, starring canines Monty and Willow.

Honey and Sugar – the year after the Queen gave birth to Prince Charles, Susan also became a mother with puppies, Sugar and Honey. Sugar was the nursery pet of Prince Charles and Princess Anne, while Honey belonged to the Queen’s mother. Although she was known for being feisty and biting a pair of trousers or two.

Jane – was originally chosen to be Dookie’s mate, but in the end, they were only destined to be friends. Like Crackers, Jane accompanied Margaret and Elizabeth to Windsor Castle during WW2. After Dookie passed away, Jane became the top dog for the family.

Linnet – born in 2000 was the mother of the last litter of corgis the Queen ever bred. She was said to be fond of bagpipes and would often follow the Queen’s personal bagpiper around.

Monty – initially belonged to the Queen mother and was one of the canine stars of the Queen’s James Bond sketch in the 2012 Olympics, starring alongside corgis Holly and Willow.

Sandy – is one of the Queen’s newest corgis with her majesty bringing her to the household in June 2021 to keep Muick company.

Sherry and Whisky – were both given to Prince Charles and Princess Anne for Christmas presents. Believed to be named after some of the household’s favourite tipples.

Susan – was Elizabeth’s first corgi of her own, gifted to her on her 18th birthday. She was first known as Sue and was red and white in colouring like Jane and Dookie. Susan went everywhere with the Queen, even on their honeymoon. Her majesty’s love for Susan was so well known that after Prince Charles was born, the Daily Mirror asked its readers to suggest ways to prevent Susan from becoming jealous of the baby.

Tiny – was from a new litter, from a kennel in Sussex, differing from the Queen’s previous corgis. Tiny had an unplanned liaison with Margaret’s dachshund Pipkin creating a litter of ‘dorgis’ from which the Queen kept Pickles and Tinker.

Willow – was the last generation of Susan’s descendants. She starred alongside Monty and Holly in the Olympics James Bond sketch. The Queen was particularly upset by her loss because it was the last canine link to her parents, and she is today buried in Windsor Castle.

Platinum Jubilee Competition

Promoters: The Northbank Business Improvement District (Registered office address: 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH)

1. To participate in this competition, Share your photos with us using #thequeenandhercorgis and tagging in @victoriabid @thenorthbankbid.

This competition will run from 00:00 on Tuesday 31st May 2022 until 23:59 on Thursday 1st September 2022 Entries made by direct reply to this T&C page will not be accepted.

2. There will be 1 winner who will be selected at random, after the competition deadline of 11.59pm on1st September 2022, who has fulfilled the criteria in 1) above. Entries made after this point will not be counted.

3. The contest is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) over except for the Promoters employees, all contractors and families or anyone directly connected with the organisation, and operators of its brands and concessions.

4. The prize is a gift voucher providing one night’s stay with breakfast, plus a Royal Afternoon Tea for 2 at the Conrad London St. James Hotel 22-28 Broadway, London SW1H 0BH

5. If you are the lucky winner, you will need to provide your full name, email address and contact phone number as instructed at the time of being announced as our winner. Further details will then be provided by the promoters as to how you claim your prize.

6. We reserve the right to provide an alternative prize of equal or greater value in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

7. Only one entry per person will be accepted. In the event of multiple entries being received from the same Instagram account, the first entry only will be accepted.

8. No purchase is necessary; however, you will need an internet connection and access to Instagram. No refund may be claimed for expenses incurred in participating in the promotion, including in relation to the use of the internet.

9. We reserve the right to exclude any entries which we believe to be inappropriate, fraudulent, or based on misconduct.

10. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for any cash alternatives in whole or in part.

11. The prize is not valid in other food and beverage outlets other than at Conrad London St. James Hotel 22-28 Broadway, London SW1H 0BH

12. The voucher prize is only valid 48 hours after being given to the recipient and will be valid for 12 months.

13. The prize voucher contains a unique reference number which must be quoted at the time of booking and upon redemption.

14. The prize requires booking in advance.

15. The prize excludes beverages.

16. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize from the date that they are announced as a winner. After this time, we reserve the right to select a new winner.

17. The decisions of the promoters are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

18. By taking part in this promotion, all participants consent to us collecting, storing and using their personal data submitted with their entry for the purposes of this promotion.

19. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be used for marketing purposes without the individual’s prior consent.

20. The winner’s name can be obtained by sending an SAE and covering letter to: The Northbank Business Improvement District, 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH, after closure of the promotion.

21. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. You are providing your information to The Northbank Business Improvement District and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion, you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.

22. The promoters do not accept responsibility for entries that are lost, damaged or delayed. For example, as a result of network, system development, computer or telecommunications failures or fault of any kind – including any hardware, programming code, databases or software used in the promotion.

23. Winners may be required to participate in related publicity without further reward. E.g.: be photographed for website/newspaper stories, provide a short statement about their win.

24. The promoters reserve the right to withdraw or amend without notice this promotion in the event of any unforeseen circumstances outside of its reasonable control.

25. This promotion and these terms and conditions are governed by English law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

26. This promotion is subject to Instagram’s terms of services which can be found at: https://www.instagram.com/about/legal/terms/before-january-19-2013/

A message from our Chief Executive – The Queen’s Speech



A message from Ruth Duston OBE, OC:

“For business leaders listening to the Queen’s speech yesterday, when our future King set out the 38 laws that the Government intends to pass in the coming year, it might have seemed somewhat of an anti-climax. Most of the bigger bills, and headline grabbers, had already been announced, namely the Levelling Up white paper and the bill to create the new Great British Railways, but there were some nuggets in there which should provide some comfort to some business sectors. As we face the multiple challenges (and opportunities) in the post-pandemic, post-Brexit landscape, alongside grappling with the climate emergency and cost of living crisis, new legislation to cut red tape, promote new energy security projects and hand more power to local areas, are perhaps the most notable.

Some of the more significant ‘asks’ that businesses have been pushing for, namely a fundamental rethink of Business Rates, did not make the cut, with only small tinkering at the edges of the hugely complex and increasingly unpopular tax policy. Similarly the previously promised Employment Bill was absent, which puts plans to give staff a ‘default’ right to work from home on the back burner amid fears it would become impossible to get them back to their desks (with the civil service being among the slowest to return to the workplace).

Focusing on what was in the speech, the government’s priority is to “grow and strengthen the economy and help ease the cost of living for families”, with Prince Charles saying on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen that “my government will level up opportunity in all parts of the country and support more people into work.” There was not a huge amount of detail about how this will actually happen, but that’s not to say we cannot work together to find the right solutions to some of the nation’s thorniest challenges. My hope is that the public sector at the local, regional and national level will embrace the power of the private sector to continue to drive the recovery, recognising that through collaboration and coalescing around shared goals we can achieve so much more to the benefit of all.

Developing a more pragmatic narrative about levelling up must also accompany the Government’s much talked about white paper. The case for supporting areas outside of London who are suffering from poor economic outcomes is a strong one. However, this narrative is often accompanied by a framing against London. The truth is that Londoners are struggling too, with the city seeing the highest poverty rate in the country.

Cities such as London have a significant role to play and I urge the Government to support investment and growth in our capital city, alongside other cities across the UK, to ensure our collective potential is realised and prosperity can be shared. A report we recently commissioned with WPI Economics showed that the untapped potential of cities could contribute an extra £63bn by 2030, should they have London-level growth targets.

As a supporter of BIDs since they arrived in the UK more than 20 years ago, I appreciate the vital role that partnership plays in unlocking potential and tackling inequalities.

We stand on the edge of a new era of public / private partnership – and I hope we can forge a new compact between businesses, communities and policy makers, especially in the UK’s major cities, giving the private sector a real say in how our cities evolve in the future. That would be true levelling up, and I believe a positive step forward for the country and our democracy.”

We are keen for our business community to keep in touch with us so if you would like to discuss anything specific with the BID please get in touch with Henry Johnstone.

Let’s celebrate the power of our great cities 

A message from our Chief Executive

Last night at a packed event in Westminster we unveiled a new umbrella brand for the South Westminster BIDs: London HQ, which I hope will help to amplify the positive story we have to tell about this unique part of central London.

We also launched a report with WPI Economics on the power of cities. In the face of our recovery from the pandemic, Brexit, the cost of living emergency, the war on talent, climate change and levelling up, there has never been a better time to remind ourselves about the important role cities like London play in our shared national prosperity. The report reveals the untapped potential of cities to contribute an extra £63bn by 2030, should they have London-level growth targets.

Cities are a huge national success story – through collaboration and innovation they shape and influence what our urban future looks like. They should be celebrated and recognised for the contribution they make: spreading prosperity and supporting growth, creating a ripple effect far beyond their boundaries. 

The long awaited Levelling Up White Paper is clear on supporting other cities. The case for supporting areas outside of London who are suffering from poor economic outcomes is a strong one. However, this narrative is often accompanied by a framing against London. The truth is that Londoners are struggling too, with the city seeing the highest poverty rate in the country.

As a supporter of BIDs since they arrived in the UK more than 20 years ago, I appreciate the vital role that partnership plays in unlocking potential and tackling inequalities.

We stand on the edge of a new era of public / private partnership – and I hope we can forge a new compact between businesses, communities and policy makers, especially in the UK’s major cities, giving the private sector a real say in how our cities evolve in the future. 

Devolution is a buzz word in the White Paper, offering other cities in the UK the opportunity to follow London’s devolution example. I could not agree more, but let’s not believe that London’s devolution model is the gold standard. We should push to go further here in the capital too.

I champion businesses being given a more formal voice in the civic governance process. There are of course models for this already – businesses have had the vote in the City of London since 1384.

Is it not time to consider a more inclusive process and representation of an area’s community, especially in major economic hubs such as the CAZ? It would be recognition of the significant contribution being made by the private sector in the ‘public’ realm.

Under our new London HQ banner we will be championing our part of the capital and the significant contribution our business communities play in promoting vibrancy and shaping the city of the future, where benefits are shared by all.

This is all part of developing a new narrative for London – empowering communities, sharing prosperity, and working more collaboratively.

Strand Resurfacing: Enabling works starting Friday 25th February

Westminster City Council has commissioned its service provider, FM Conway Limited, to resurface the Strand (between Savoy Street and Charing Cross Station) and Adam Street Carriageways. This work will be undertaken in late March (starting 28th March) and finishing in early April (ends 7th April); formal notification of the resurfacing programme of works will be distributed in mid-March to affected businesses and residents.

The resurfacing will be undertaken in seven (No.7) separate phases, three eastbound (on 28th, 29th and 30th March), three westbound (on 4th, 5th and 6th April) and Adam Street; which will be resurfaced on Sunday 3rd April. When resurfacing the eastbound carriageway, the westbound carriageway will remain open to traffic; and vice versa.

The FM Conway team will be working extended hours to complete sections in one day; with works expected to continue into the late evening. During each phase there will be no vehicle access or egress allowed within area being resurfaced; these are between:

Eastbound Phases –

1.     Duncannon Street to Agar Street on Monday 28th March

2.     Agar Street to Lumley Court on Tuesday 29th March; and,

3.     Lumley Court to Burleigh Street (includes the junction mouth) on Wednesday 30th March

* Thursday 31st March is a reserve day should there be bad weather or should unknown issues arise.

4.     Adam Street will be resurfaced overnight between 18:00pm and 05:00am on Sunday 3rd April.

Westbound Phases –

5.     Savoy Street (includes mouth of junction) to Adam Street on Monday 4th April

6.     Adam Street to just beyond George Court on Tuesday 5th April; and,

7.     George Court to Trafalgar Square on Wednesday 6th April; this includes resurfacing in front of Charing Cross Station where only emergency vehicle access and egress under “blue lights” will be available during the day.

Thursday 7th April is also a reserve day.

During the directional closures of the carriageway TfL Surface Network Buses will be on diversion.

Pedestrian access to businesses will not be affected by the resurfacing; however, there will be closures of pedestrian crossings during each phase and alternative, safe crossing points will be available.

Once the resurfacing is completed, we will then strengthen all drain and utility covers in both carriageways; this will be done during the working day under localised lane closures (not full closure of the carriageway).

Works will be noisy at times for which FM Conway do apologise in advance.

In the meantime, some enabling works started on 25th February. This is to realign kerb stones and small areas of paving that have been damaged by vehicles. Nearby businesses have been notified of these works.

Should you want to find out more about these works and how they may affect you, please do contact Bob Burton, the FM Conway Public Liaison Officer for the Strand Resurfacing Project. Bob can be best contacted by email on robert.burton@fmconway.co.uk

Central London Alliance

The Central London Alliance, a Community Interest Company, was formed to support a sustainable, economic recovery of London’s business, hospitality, cultural, tourism, and retail sectors and to help both employers and workers to survive through coronavirus and beyond. Politically agnostic and supported by organisations of varying sizes and sectors, the Central London Alliance works towards a safe and strong economic recovery of central London, ensuring its continued viability as a leading global city.

Business Support Services

  • Exclusive access to community network platforms enabling directbusiness to business connections
  • Match funding on media campaigns
  • Value added radio campaigns
  • Preferred rates on accommodation and venues
  • Complimentary COVID-19 risk assessment guide and training
  • Discounted rates on IT and data management solutions
  • Complimentary business mentoring
  • Complimentary business health check
  • Preferred rates with a strategy led design agency
  • Discounts with videographers and photographers
  • Complimentary COVID-19 secure work spaces
  • Discounted rates on food delivery
  • Preferred rates on cleaning services
  • Exclusive discounts on office and medical equipment
  • Discounted COVID-19 testing solutions
  • Special offer on CX and EX improvement
  • Complimentary workplace air quality consultation
  • Access to exclusive digital Out-of-Home office media network

Employee Benefits

  • FREE educational and training courses
  • FREE sign language sessions
  • FREE co-working space
  • Discounted men’s grooming treatments
  • Discounted spa treatments
  • Discounted London hotel accommodation
  • Discounts at various restaurants and bars
  • Complimentary online debates
  • Discounted sportswear
  • Discounted natural beauty products
  • Discounted healthy snacks
  • Discounted grocery delivery
  • Discounted 100% organic and hand-prepared smoothie kits
  • Discounted superfoods and teas
  • Discounted antiviral products

Register Here

Storm Eunice Update – 18.02.2022

The Met Office has issued rare Red Weather Warnings as Storm Eunice is expected to bring extremely strong winds and continued disruption for much of the UK today (18th February).

The Red Warning comes into force across London, southern and eastern England at 10am. It’s the first Red Warning ever for either London or the south-east, since the impact system was instigated in 2011. The most significant wind gusts are expected in the south and west of the UK, with a red warning in force in Westminster from 10am to 3pm. The Met Office has warned of a risk of flying debris causing a danger to life, the potential for fallen trees, power cuts, damage to buildings and travel disruption. Businesses are being advised to secure loose objects, use caution placing waste bags on street, as well as Alfresco areas.

Updates from Westminster City Council:
For information about what to do before, during and after the storm, and where to get help if you need it visit Westminster City Council’s website here.

If you are a business in Westminster and require support, please call the council’s contact centre on 020 7641 7000 and state that you are affected by the storm. You can also contact the Business Unit for assistance by emailing businessunit@westminster.gov.uk or by calling 020 7641 2070. Business owners who are insurance policy-holders are encouraged to contact your insurance providers to check whether you might be able to make a claim on any damage or losses incurred owing to the storm.

You can report an on-street problem by calling the call center on 020 7641 6000 or use the “Report It” function on www.westminster.gov.uk. The council’s website will be updated every two hours if new issues occur, and information is needed to be relayed.

Severe Weather Emergency Protocol:
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been activated due to Storm Eunice, which gives rough sleepers access to emergency cold weather accommodation. If you are concerned about an individual in the area the best way to help is to talk to them and make a referral to Streetlink, finding out their name and any other information if possible. Your referral will then be picked up by Outreach teams who will go and visit the individual and begin to help them. You can also get in touch with the BID’s Community Intervention Team, if you are worried about an individual, by phoning the team on 0207 592 1851 or emailing communityinterventionteam@passage.org.uk

The BIDs are working closely with our partners at Westminster City Council and the Met Police and are being regularly updated with developments relating to Storm Eunice. We will provide further updates as the day progresses on our Sentinel and Twitter platforms. If you would like to be added to the Sentinel system get in touch with our team here. If your business is part of the Northbank Radio Link scheme you can also get in touch with our street teams via your radio.

Terms and Conditions – Valentine’s Day

Terms & Conditions – #LoveNorthbank22 Instagram Competition

Promoters: The Northbank Business Improvement District (Registered office address: 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH)

1. To participate in this competition, users must share a photo on their Instagram channel with our Valentine’s Swing Seat in Charing Cross Station and tag @thenorthbankbid and #LoveNorthbank22 in their post.  

By using the hashtag #LoveNorthbank22 when resharing our image to Instagram, you consent to your image or video being reshared on the @thenorthbankbid social accounts.

This competition will run from 00:00 on Monday 7th February 2022 until 23:59 on Monday 14th February 2022. Entries made by direct reply to this T&C page will not be accepted.

2. There will be 1 winner who will be selected at random, after the competition deadline of 11.59pm on 14th February 2022, who has fulfilled the criteria in 1) above. Entries made after this point will not be counted.

3. The contest is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) over except for the Promoters employees, all contractors and families or anyone directly connected with the organisation, and operators of its brands and concessions.

4. The prize is a gift voucher providing a seasonal tasting menu for 2 at Roka Aldwych (71 Aldwych, London WC2B 4HN)

5. If you are the lucky winner, you will need to provide your full name, email address and contact phone number as instructed at the time of being announced as our winner. Further details will then be provided by the promoters as to how you claim your prize.

6. We reserve the right to provide an alternative prize of equal or greater value in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

7. Only one entry per person will be accepted. In the event of multiple entries being received from the same Instagram account, the first entry only will be accepted.

8. No purchase is necessary; however, you will need an internet connection and access to Instagram. No refund may be claimed for expenses incurred in participating in the promotion, including in relation to the use of the internet.

9. We reserve the right to exclude any entries which we believe to be inappropriate, fraudulent, or based on misconduct.

10. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for any cash alternatives in whole or in part.

11. The prize is not valid in other food and beverage outlets other than at Roka Aldwych,71 Aldwych, London WC2B 4HN.

12. The voucher prize is only valid 48 hours after being given to the recipient and will be valid for 12 months.

13. The prize voucher contains a unique reference number which must be quoted at the time of booking and upon redemption.

14. The prize requires booking in advance.

15. The prize excludes beverages.

16. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize from the date that they are announced as a winner. After this time, we reserve the right to select a new winner.

17. The decisions of the promoters are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

18. By taking part in this promotion, all participants consent to us collecting, storing and using their personal data submitted with their entry for the purposes of this promotion.

19. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be used for marketing purposes without the individual’s prior consent.

20. The winner’s name can be obtained by sending an SAE and covering letter to: The Northbank Business Improvement District, 22a St. James’ Square, London, SW1Y 4JH, after closure of the promotion.

21. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. You are providing your information to The Northbank Business Improvement District and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion, you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.

22. The promoters do not accept responsibility for entries that are lost, damaged or delayed. For example, as a result of network, system development, computer or telecommunications failures or fault of any kind – including any hardware, programming code, databases or software used in the promotion.

23. Winners may be required to participate in related publicity without further reward. E.g.: be photographed for website/newspaper stories, provide a short statement about their win.

24. The promoters reserve the right to withdraw or amend without notice this promotion in the event of any unforeseen circumstances outside of its reasonable control.

25. This promotion and these terms and conditions are governed by English law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

26. This promotion is subject to Instagram’s terms of services which can be found at: https://www.instagram.com/about/legal/terms/before-january-19-2013/

New Year Message from Ruth Duston, OBE OC

New Year is often a time for reflecting on the year gone by and looking forward to the year ahead. While many of us I’m sure are glad to be putting 2021 behind us, across business sectors I imagine 2022 is also being viewed with some trepidation. Unfortunately, we are starting another new year with the pandemic still with us, keeping workers from their desks and visitors from our attractions for the time being. For some sectors hit especially hard by the restrictions introduced in early December, and an incredibly quiet Christmas and New Year period, the future must look bleak right now, but I firmly believe that London’s best days lie ahead.

There are some positive signs of green shoots in the recovery. Colliers estimates that central London office take-up in 2021 was around 9.5 million square feet, up 55.7% on 2020. Just in the last few days, the Government and NHS leaders appear increasingly confident that the Omicron wave will not overwhelm services, and a ‘Living with COVID’ strategy is promised in March by the Prime Minister, providing a signal of hope for businesses struggling with the ongoing restrictions. This all points to the potential for a strong bounce back in the economy and the underlying strength of London.

Businesses will drive the recovery once again, and in a bid to attract the best talent, the lion’s share of the returning visitor economy and future investment, London needs to be the best version of itself. I believe we stand on the brink of a new and exciting era for the capital, where the need to be ‘best in class’ drives innovation and creativity, as well as attracting investment.

Looking across South Westminster I am confident that our business communities stand ready to seize the growth opportunities that I’m sure are ahead. 2022, with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee providing a great focal point, could be the year we learn to live with COVID and get our economy back on track. We have much to be hopeful about, including the continuing momentum being seen on the Strand / Aldwych transformation scheme and our exciting plans for Future Victoria progressing. Partnership sits at the heart of these projects, and it will be the partnership that helps us provide the best welcome back to central London when the time is right – from street cleaning and our Ambassadors to cultural events and public realm enhancements. Let’s continue to work together to not only get the recovery going again but to help London be the best it can be. In the coming weeks, as we hopefully emerge from this crippling pandemic, let’s be creative, collaborative and most importantly, ambitious about what we can achieve together.

A message from our Chief Executive

“As the year draws to a close it’s disappointing that there remains much uncertainty around the pandemic. Although the PM has now confirmed that there will be no further changes to guidance this side of Christmas, the impacts of the current restrictions have already been significant, both professionally and personally for many of us.

The introduction of Plan B restrictions from 10 December had an immediate result in central London, hitting our hospitality, leisure, and retail businesses especially hard in this crucial festive period. Since then, we have lobbied Government to provide clarity, certainty, and additional support to businesses.

You will no doubt have seen that the Chancellor yesterday confirmed some financial help for certain sectors. Businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors in England will be eligible for one-off grants of up to £6,000 per premises, plus more than £100 million discretionary funding will be made available for local authorities to support other businesses. Government will also cover the cost of Statutory Sick Pay for Covid-related absences for small and medium-sized employers across the UK. £30 million further funding will be made available through the Culture Recovery Fund, enabling more cultural organisations in England to apply for support during the winter.

While I welcome this additional support, which I have been calling for in recent days, it is unlikely this new package will go far enough to help all the businesses that are struggling. I know from talking to colleagues in the hospitality sector that they are witnessing a significant fall in bookings and a multi-billion pound loss of trade. The ongoing working from home guidance hits major cities particularly hard, so London is braced for a difficult start to 2022.

Throughout the pandemic, the hospitality and retail sectors have welcomed the Government’s support which has saved thousands of businesses from collapse and protected millions of jobs. In the next few weeks, as we will undoubtedly see the continuing impact of Omicron, I will continue to press policy makers on your behalf, including asking for clarity on the duration of the current working from home guidance and the need for further financial help for the sectors most affected, including business rates relief and reducing VAT.

The BID team will remain vigilant over the festive period and will act swiftly to advise on changes to guidance and the introduction of any further support. Crucially, our focus is already fixed on 2022 and how best your BID can support you. Planning is already underway to salvage the recovery, which had built up good momentum during 2021, and we are determined to work with our business community, neighbouring BIDs and lobbying groups, public sector partners and other stakeholders once again to get London’s recovery back on track.

I am still confident that London can recover and be more resilient, stronger and full of vibrancy once again. Professor Chris Whitty has described the current Omicron variant as something of a ‘hair-pin turn’ and that once around the bend, the nation’s economy should be able to power back to recovery. Businesses have a crucial role to play – it will be your creativity and innovation that will unlock London’s potential – adapting to the new landscape and attracting visitors and investment. The private sector will drive the recovery when it gets going again, creating compelling reasons for people to return to London and even more reasons for them to stay. Let’s use the coming weeks to pause, reflect and recharge our batteries, coming back in 2022 with a renewed focus and desire to overcome the challenges on the horizon and seize the opportunities that undoubtedly exist.”

TfL announces safety ban of e-scooters on transport network

PN-141
Privately-owned e-scooters and e-unicycles will not be permitted on any TfL service or premises Ban will come into effect on Monday 13 December
Transport for London (TfL) has announced that all privately-owned e-scooters and e-unicycles, including those that can be folded or carried, will be banned on London’s transport network from Monday 13 December. This is the result of safety concerns about these items following recent fires on TfL premises & services. Customers in possession of such devices will not be permitted to enter any premises on TfL’s network or travel on any of its services, including on the Tube, buses, Overground, TfL Rail, Trams and DLR. Recently there have been incidents of privately-owned e-scooters and e-unicycles catching fire whilst on TfL services or infrastructure. In response to these incidents, TfL has undertaken further work to review the safety of the vehicles and their suitability for carriage on the TfL transport network. This review has found that the incidents that occurred were caused by defective lithium-ion batteries which ruptured without warning. This led to fires that caused toxic smoke to be released. TfL consider that if this were to happen again and fires occurred in an enclosed area like a Tube train or a bus, there could be significant harm to both customers and staff, as well as secondary injuries from customers trying to escape the area. Whilst privately owned e-scooters remain illegal to use in public spaces, they are widely available for purchase. Private e-scooters and e-unicycles are currently unregulated, meaning they are not currently required to meet any minimum vehicle standards. TfL will keep these changes under review pending any future changes to legislation by the Government regarding e-scooters and e-unicycles, specifically around safety standards. TfL is collecting data from the rental e-scooter trials to help shape future policy on safety standards in London and the rest of the UK. TfL’s trial of rental e-scooters, which began in June 2021 as part of trials permitted nationally by the Department for Transport (DfT), offers the only e-scooters legally allowed on London’s roads. Rigorous safety measures are central to the trial, with vehicles that exceed the DfT’s regulatory requirements for trial vehicles and that are considerably more robust than the most common private e-scooters. The safety criteria for the trial were agreed by TfL, London Councils, the participating boroughs and the DfT, as well as with key stakeholder groups and other cities that have previously launched similar trials. These e-scooters are also not currently allowed on TfL services. Lilli Matson, TfL’s Chief Safety, Health and Environment Officer, said: “Our primary concern is always for the safety of our customers and staff. We have been extremely worried by the recent incidents on our public transport services, which involved intense fires and considerable smoke and damage. We have worked with London Fire Brigade to determine how we should deal with these devices and, following that review, we have decided to ban them. Customers who try to bring them onto our network will be refused access to our stations and premises, and not be permitted to use any of our services.” The ban will include all e-scooters and e-unicycles, but does not include mobility scooters that are permitted on the network or foldable e-bikes. E-bikes are generally subject to better manufacturing standards and the batteries are usually positioned in a place where they are less likely to be damaged, and so are less of a fire risk. Non-foldable e-bikes will continue to be allowed on some parts of the network at certain times of the day. More information can be found here: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/cycles-on-public-transport London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety, Paul Jennings, said: “We have growing concerns about the safety of e-scooters due to the amount of fires we are seeing involving them, so we fully support TfL’s ban of private e-scooters on public transport. “Fires are dangerous and terrifying wherever they happen, but a fire on the transport network has the potential to become very serious very quickly and involve hundreds of people, particularly on trains where evacuation may be challenging, so anything that can be done to mitigate that risk is a positive step.” TfL staff will engage with customers to remind them of the ban. TfL’s 500 uniformed enforcement officers and its police partners will be deployed across the transport network ensuring that customers comply. Anybody who does not comply may be refused entry, directed to leave the network or face a fine of up to £1,000. The Metropolitan Police has also appealed to retailers to be responsible in selling e-scooters, and has reminded Londoners that the use of privately-owned e-scooter and e-unicycles on public roads, cycleways and highways is illegal. British Transport Police Superintendent, Lisa Garrett, said: “Our priority is the safety of passengers and the staff members working across Transport for London services. We’ll be working alongside frontline staff to engage with the public on this issue, and enforce where necessary.”

A message from Chief Executive, Ruth Duston – Omicron Variant

The festive season is here and while the new Omicron variant brings some fresh uncertainty, it’s still thrilling to see our business community and visitors enjoying the build up to Christmas. Restaurants, hotels, shops and theatres are busy, and we are hopeful that the Government’s fast-tracked booster programme will help us get on top of the new variant and keep the recovery moving in the right direction. Our work to support our business community is ongoing, not least with the unveiling our beautiful festive lights and installations across the BID footprints in recent weeks. I hope that we can enjoy the coming weeks with friends, family and colleagues safely – London comes into its own at Christmas and it’s great to see the streets alive with buzz and vibrancy.

We continue to press Government to provide greater clarity on the new COVID restrictions and guidance, and on other big issues such as the climate crisis, Brexit and of course the levelling up agenda.

December kicked off with a dinner we hosted at Two Temple Place for Centre for London, ahead of its annual conference. Levelling up and securing London’s position as the UK’s only global city was the focus for the evening, and it was great to hear from Henri Murison, the Director of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership. Levelling up is not a zero-sum game. We must think about the challenges we face holistically, allocating resources based on need and not geography. Collaborative working between regions, businesses and policy makers is vital if we are to emerge from the pandemic stronger and on a steady footing for growth. In the coming months I want to champion this more collegiate approach between London and other major cities and regions for the mutual benefit of us all.

So, 2022 is already shaping up to be a busy year – COVID recovery remains a key priority but there are other issues we are determined to tackle too, to ensure we can continue to create the optimum environment for business growth. I am looking forward to what we can achieve together next year. For now though, I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and here’s to a happy and healthy new year for all of us.

Festive Food and Drink

Festive offers in The Northbank

The Pandemic lead to many of our hospitality businesses having to close, and change their way of operating to ensure the safety of their staff and visitors. After 18 months, of do-it-yourself kits, most venues have reopened successfully with tourists and local trade happy to visit. This Christmas, take a look at the various festive offers available in The Northbank and be sure to pay a visit.


Festive Menus

The Winter Garden at The Corinthia Hotel, Whitehall Pl, London SW1A 2BD

Step into a wintery haven in the heart of London: The Garden will be transformed into a wondrous winter terrace. Twinkle lights, roaring fireplaces, sheep wools and alpaca blankets create a warming ambience.

The cosy-chic feeling is complemented by an alpine inspired menu curated by Executive Chef André Garret.

Ole & Steen, 351-353 Strand, London WC2R 0HS

Their much-loved Turkey Roastie Toastie is back – focaccia filled with roast turkey, pork and apple stuffing, tarragon mayo, cranberry sauce, Cheddar and spinach. That’ll certainly have you feeling toastie in no time.

And their vegan alternative… Say Hej to our brand new Merry Squash-mas toastie – focaccia filled with roasted squash, vegan stuffing, vegan tarragon mayo, cranberry sauce, caramelised onion, Violife cheese and spinach.

Or maybe it’s just their Frosted Mint Hot Chocolate… Hot chocolate mixed with peppermint syrup, topped with vanilla whipped cream and gold dust. Yes please.

Frankie and Benny’s, 355-357 Strand, London WC2R 0HR

Indulge in their set menu with 2 courses for £16.90 and 3 courses for £18.90. Think Brie & Cranberry Burger or perhaps our festive spin on a classic hot dog – followed by their famous Bailey’s chocolate cheesecake.

Thirsty? Their Fairytale of New York cocktail is the perfect start to your evening. Rhubarb and ginger gin meets cranberry juice, prosecco, and just a hint of cinnamon. Cheers to that!

The Savoy, Strand, London WC2R 0EZ

Their chefs have devised some truly inspiring menus, full of the festive treats we look forward too all year long.

You will be spoilt for choice this festive season at The Savoy, with a delicious range of dining options from the relaxed and informal to true indulgence!

Their Christmas Day menu in Thames Foyer will be opulent and delicious, while we will be offering a tasty three-course Supper Club menu in the evenings in Thames Foyer from 15th November 2021 to the 2nd January 2022. Needless to say, Savoy Grill and The River Restaurant will offer equally appetising menus for the festive celebrations.

In the Beaufort Bar they will have a sophisticated choice of canapes and appetisers if you are looking for something delicious but a little different, while of course there is always the choice of luxuriating in your room or suite and enjoying their superb in-room dining for the ultimate in relaxed dining.

Frog by Adam Handling Festive Menu, 34-35 Southampton St, London WC2E 7HG

Prepare yourselves for some festive feasting at our flagship restaurant, Frog by Adam Handling, Covent Garden.

Opt for one of the festive dishes from our a la carte menu, such as turkey, stuffing black garlic and their Christmas pudding, brandy parfait, vanilla or, if you’re looking to take indulgence to the next level, their decadent tasting menu is the one for you.

Zizzi, 73 Strand, London WC2R 0DE

Let’s get merry with it! This Christmas Zizzi are bringing you three festive special guests. From their festive twist on the Rustica pizza, topped with pulled wild boar, to our Rum Baba (that’s a cake drenched in rum syrup to you and me), they’ve got food that’s fit for a feast. Why not try their Spiced Pomegranate festive drink that can be served as a softail, cocktail or spritz. Yum!

Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London WC2R 0RG

Celebrate with their 5-course tasting menu

Book your table for Christmas today. Whether it’s a date night, mate night, or your office.

5 courses from £24.95 per person, minimum of 2 people – a social festive feast, showcasing the very best of PizzaExpress, combining some classics and exciting new dishes.

For some festive sparkle, add a drinks pairing, from £9.95. Kick off with our famous Dough Balls and Prosecco. Pair your pizza with a crisp, chilled glass of Picpoul or a refreshing Peroni. And enjoy your dessert with an Italian classic Limoncello!

Contact your local restaurant for specific pricing.

Bella Italia, 65 Strand, London WC2N 5LR

Have a very berry Bella Christmas.

Join Bella Italia this Christmas for a fantastic Italian feast. Enjoy two or three courses of delicious favourites, including Bruschetta, Carbonara or our special Christmas pizza with béchamel sauce, roast pulled pork, mozzarella, pancetta & cranberry.

Pizza Hut, 56/59 Strand, London WC2N 5LR

Sleigh it this Christmas with their Xmas Meal Deal.

Get a Main, Side, Salad & Drink all for £16.99!

Afternoon Teas

The Savoy, Strand, London , WC2R 0EZ

Special at any time of the year, Afternoon Tea at The Savoy becomes even more magical during the festive season.

Their delicate patisserie is full of festive flavours, in pretty designs that reflect the starlit setting of Thames Foyer. It is served with featherlight scones, tasty sandwiches made with wonderful seasonal ingredients and the finest teas selected by their expert team. Afternoon Tea at The Savoy experienced at Christmas time will surely create memories to treasure for years to come.

Waldorf Hilton Aldwych, London WC2B 4DD

Join the iconic Waldorf Hilton for our festive themed afternoon tea. An exciting twist on our signature offering. 🥂🍰🍬🎀 Guests will be welcomed with a magical sugarplum mist, filling the table and preparing your senses for a theatrical twist on The Waldorf Hilton’s afternoon tea experience. Start your journey with an amuse bouche that changes before your eyes, leading into a colourful twist on some of The Waldorf’s favourites.

Festive Cocktails

Christmas at Mr Fogg’s Society of Exploration, 1a Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9HH

Christmastide is fast approaching, and Phileas J. Fogg, Esq. shall be hosting a magnificent multitude of festivities, transporting you back to Christmas 1883! Enjoy award-winning cocktails for your festive soirées, or delight in a unique range of experiences such as hearty lunches, gin-packed adventures and an afternoon tipsy tea. Decked with a marvellous array of mistletoe, garlands and twinkling lights, immerse yourself in a plethora of jovial celebrations this Christmas across the Mr Fogg’s Collection.

Limited edition Hotel Chocolat Christmas cocktails at All Bar One

All Bar One have collaborated with Hotel Chocolat to create an exclusive cocktail menu that’s every chocolate and cocktail lover’s dream. Available from 16th November, the brand-new limited-edition range of Instagrammable cocktails are crafted using Hotel Chocolat’s delicious velvetised creams. Choose between four luxurious flavours – Chocolat Martini, Midnight Tiramisu, Clementine Chocolat Martini and Mint Royale, from just £9.95 each. Visit All Bar One Charing Cross to try the menu.

Advent Calendar – 1st December – Prize 2

Win 4 tickets to see Jersey Boys at the Trafalgar Theatre

Advent Calendar day 1

The Jersey Boys musical dramatises the formation of the band, Frankie Valli and the Four seasons. They were just four ordinary guys from New Jersey until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard … and the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story — a story that has made them an international sensation all over again.

T&Cs Apply. Valid until 1st April 2023

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

#ChristmasinLondonHQ

Westminster City Council launches Innovation Challenge to engage citizens

Entries are now open for residents, businesses and visitors to submit their ideas to shape the future of the city

Westminster City Council has announced the launch of its inaugural Innovation Challenge, opening up a call to residents, businesses, visitors and schools to submit their innovative ideas for the future of the city. As the first step of Westminster’s Smart City programme, the initiative offers anyone who lives in, works in, or visits the city the chance to have their say.

As part of a drive to become a smarter city, the challenge will identify the issues that really matter to Westminster’s communities and provide an online portal where solutions can be collected. Whether it is an idea for outdoor office space with Wi-Fi-connected benches or a city hotel for bees, the Challenge is open to any ideas that improve city life. Entries will be judged by an expert panel representing the best of the city’s arts, technology, business innovation and community spirit, including representatives from Google, Microsoft and Vodafone.

The overall winner of the Westminster Innovation Award will be unveiled in the new year, along with four theme winners, covering everything from digital inclusion to clean tech innovation solutions, following a robust selection process. Winning entries will then be helped to be brought to life with support from the Council, in partnership with GovTech accelerator PUBLIC. A Smart School Competition, in collaboration with Microsoft, will also offer primary and secondary schools the chance to compete for a Smart School Award.

The Challenge is open to all but the Council are particularly welcoming entries from excluded communities or those who wouldn’t ordinarily feel empowered to get involved. In addition to entering via the online portal, tailored engagement events including roadshows, library events and hackathons will be held across the Boroughs.

Commenting on the landmark challenge, Chief Digital and Innovation Officer, Aruj Haider said: “We’re excited to be launching our Innovation Challenge as a unique opportunity to harness the incredible diversity and creativity of our communities across Westminster and put your great ideas into action. Our Smart City for All programme is all about listening to the innovative ideas from the great minds across our city – so whatever your solution, however big or small, we want to hear it.”

Councillor Paul Swaddle, Cabinet Member for Finance and Smart City at Westminster City Council said: “This new Innovation Challenge is a launch pad for our long-term aim to make Westminster a world-leading smart city with people at its heart. We want to encourage all of our residents, businesses, visitors and schools to submit the innovative ideas they have about the future of the city they live in. 

“We want to give all our communities the opportunities to come together, feel empowered to get involved, inspire each other and work in collaboration with us to deliver the innovations that our city needs. I am confident that we will be inspired and surprised by the ideas that come forward from all walks of life, and look forward to turning these great ideas into a reality.”

Entry Submission HERE

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) Expansion

As part of the Defra-funded Clean Air Villages 4 project, Cross River Partnership (CRP) has created Ultra Low Emission Zone (#ULEZ) guidance flow charts to aid resident and business vehicle owners on next steps to meet the standards.

From 25th October 2021, the existing ULEZ will expand, creating a single larger zone up to, but not including, the North and South Circular Roads.

The new flow charts provide straightforward advice and signposting for #electricvehicle leasing and buying options, funding opportunities and financial incentives, as well as tools that can help in transitioning to cleaner modes of transport for personal and business journeys.  

CRP has also created a simple breakdown of the financial costs associated with those continuing to drive a vehicle that does not meet the ULEZ (or LEZ) standards. 

We want to encourage all vehicle owners to meet the standards and where possible, switch to lower polluting methods. For individuals, this could be walking, cycling, cargo biking, scooting, and using public transport. For businesses, this could be switching to electric vehicles or cargo bikes if possible. This will contribute to improving London’s toxic air quality which is responsible for the deaths of over 4,000 Londoners in 2019 alone.

See all of the resources here:  

@David Ebbrell, I wonder whether it’s worth distinguishing between residents and businesses here ie. some businesses will read this and feel that suggesting they switch from a large lorry to a bike is not realistic.

Neal’s Yard Therapy Room Therapists

Stephen Jackson

Stephen is an ITEC accredited and insured massage therapist and has been practising since January 2019. He is also a member of Think Tree, an International Professional Association for complementary therapists.

Stephen offers holistic (Swedish), deep tissue, aromatherapy and sports massage tailored to your needs. He is passionate about well-being and would be delighted to help you rebalance your body.

Whether you’re a cyclist, runner, climber, yogi, regular gym-goer, been on your feet all day or feeling stressed from the daily grind, Stephen would be delighted to help you improve mobility, recover from intense activity and restore a sense of well-being

Nanette Wray

Nanette has practised as a London-based holistic massage therapist since 2002.  

She teaches ITEC Holistic Massage and ITEC Indian Head Massage with Richdales Institute at Hammersmith Hospital and runs Baby Massage courses for parents to learn how to massage their babies.

Based on the natural power of touch to soothe and comfort, massage is one of the oldest known therapies and can have profound effects on health and well-being.

Qualifications

  • ITEC dip. Anatomy, Physiology and Massage
  • ITEC dip. Aromatherapy
  • RI Indian-Head Massage
  • SEED Pregnancy, Babies and Children
  • SEED Hands-Free Massage
  • SEED Hot Stone Therapy
  • SEED Ayurvedic Facial and Marma Point Massage
  • NYR Holistic Facial
  • Full registered member of Embody, the Complementary Therapists Association
  • Affiliate member of the Institute for Learning

Hayley Naim

Hayley qualified as a therapist in 2017 when she began making life and career changes to help bring balance and harmony into her life.

Hayley’s approach is to work with you holistically: using relaxing, restorative, and remedial massage therapy techniques to support your emotional and physical wellbeing.

Hayley’s therapies can be complemented with a bespoke blend of Neal’s Yard Remedies organic essential and natural oils for an enhanced, therapeutic treatment.

Trained with the London School of Massage, the Middlesex School of Complementary Medicine and Restore Therapy, Hayley is also a registered Scar Work Practitioner and is a member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists.

Spencer Joseph

Spencer works as an integrative therapist creating a synthesis of approaches from Eastern and Western medicine.

Since 1990 Spencer has studied many different areas of health and well-being including yoga, meditation and martial arts. He holds a BA Hons degree in philosophy as well as recognised, professional therapy qualifications in the following:

  • Acupuncture (TCM)
  • Shiatsu
  • CranioSacral Therapy
  • Sports Massage
  • Integrative Counselling
  • Hypnotherapy
  • Spencer is also a member of the following organisations, all of which require professional qualifications and insurance:
  • The Chinese Medical Institute and Register
  • The Zen Shiatsu Society
  • The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council
  • The Complementary Therapists Association
  • The UK Association of Humanistic Psychology Practitioners
  • To find out more about Spencer and his work (including testimonials) in Covent Garden and Islington please see his website bodytherapeutics.co.uk

Margot Werner

Margot has worked in our Covent Garden Therapy rooms since 2012.  She integrates techniques into her treatments to suit each individual client.  Her instinct and intuition help her to tune in to the body to bring greater balance.

Katrin Reisser

As a trained dancer Kate understands how the body moves and how different exercise and therapy techniques can improve her clients’ functional body alignment.  Her treatment sessions are tailored to an individual’s needs.

She is qualified in sports massage, is currently studying osteopathy and is always keen to develop and update her knowledge and abilities.

Plans underway for a new reimagined Strand Aldwych

Westminster City Council has begun to implement ambitious new proposals to convert busy roads into new public spaces at the Strand and across the Aldwych.

‘Skate the Strand’, a new free, temporary pop-up skate park located on the Strand outside Somerset House, marks the start of the longer-term vision for the Strand Aldwych area. This new ‘Skate the Strand’ project is part of the wider Westminster Reveals campaign and kicks off ‘September on the Strand’, inviting people to return to the city’s streets and enjoy the capital’s famed cultural scene, connecting celebrated talent and communities.

Westminster City Council has ambitious plans for Strand Aldwych, which will see this ancient route adapted to become a pedestrian-focused destination, transforming this historic gateway to the West End into a world-class and contemporary traffic-free public space.

The proposal converts busy roadways into a major new public space at the Strand, to become traffic-free in front of Somerset House and King’s College London, and an enhanced pedestrian experience across the Aldwych, including new crossings, wider footways and a new green space. 

The new Strand Aldwych project aims to bring the inside out – by combining the best of Westminster’s arts, culture, learning and business, utilising the wealth of cultural and creative organisations based in the surrounding areas to reveal the joys of Strand Aldwych as a unique place to visit. It will create a new public space for London, car-free, centred around the majestic St Mary le Strand Church, which will stand pride of place in its newly created architectural and historic setting. 

The reinvention of Strand Aldwych as a world-leading, fit for the future, urban green space is the latest step in the council’s ambitious plans for the West End and its vision for a greener, smarter city. This project is being delivered by Westminster City Council along with key partners including Northbank Business Improvement District, King’s College London, Somerset House Trust, St Mary Le Strand, The Courtauld and Society of London Theatre.

The works will deliver benefits to the area, including:

  • a world class new public space to showcase the very best that local institutions can offer
  • improved air quality, with traffic removed from one of London’s most polluted streets with more greenery and trees on both the Aldwych and Strand
  • a better experience for pedestrians and cyclists that is more centred towards people.
  • greatly improved connections to Covent Garden, the City, Holborn and the West End

Public realm improvements in the Strand Aldwych area started on 4 January 2021 and are due to be completed in late 2022. In response to COVID-19, the scheme was again reviewed, and it was agreed at Full Council that the permanent Aldwych scheme would be taken forward, alongside a “Meanwhile Strand” design to provide opportunities to test how Londoners and the local community would like to use the space. 

From the end of August (19 to 22 August 2021), the Strand was permanently closed to vehicular traffic between Waterloo Bridge and Surrey Street. This new pedestrian and cycle zone will be protected by static physical measures preventing vehicular access to create a car-free zone, although it will allow time-limited access for deliveries and local access. 

This will immediately create much needed space to support the local economy and improve the experience for pedestrians. Through temporary measures, the final scheme design can be tested before being made permanent. Once this ‘Meanwhile Strand’ is established, work will progress on the final stage of the project to implement the remaining public realm works along the Strand, dovetailing with plans at St Mary le Strand and King’s to take forward the permanent scheme. 

Traffic will revert to two-way on the Aldwych and the works will introduce wider footways to create a calmer welcoming environment for pedestrians while they sample cultural opportunities in the area, such as theatre, hotels, dining, shopping, relaxing and appreciating the historic cityscape.

Cllr Matthew Green, Cabinet Member for Business, Licensing and Planning at Westminster City Council said: 

Skate the Strand kicks off ‘September on the Strand’, inviting people to return to Westminster’s iconic streets and vibrant cultural scene. It’s part of our wider plans to encourage people back to the City and to transform Strand Aldwych.

We are doing all we can to build back business and economic confidence and these exciting plans for Strand Aldwych will help improve the visitor experience, kickstart the economy and create jobs and prosperity for now and the future.

COVID-19 has changed how people visit and work in London. More and more people are beginning to return to our city, so there is an urgent need to tackle issues with pedestrian congestion and safety, poor air quality and noise. Our new plans for Strand Aldwych give us an opportunity to build back better and create a new green oasis in central London for people to relax and come together to enjoy, while continuing to celebrate the strong theatre and culture offering the Strand is known for.

Cannon Ivers, Director at LDA Design and Project Lead for Strand Aldwych, said:

Reclaiming the Strand from traffic for people will create a greener piece of city, freeing up the wonderful St Mary Le Strand Church and making the street visually rich and resilient, with improved air quality. 

For the first time, visitors will be able to properly appreciate the Grade I listed architecture which frames the space and benefit from new collaborations as the public realm brings together some of London’s leading cultural and educational institutions. I see a transformed Strand Aldwych as a place where the creative process is made visible – where art is made not just displayed, where performances are rehearsed not just performed, and where knowledge is shared not stored away.

Ruth Duston OBE, OC, Chief Executive of The Northbank Business Improvement District, said: 

It’s fantastic to be welcoming visitors to this newly created ‘meanwhile’ space, which enables us to test new concepts and activities ahead of the opening of the final Strand Aldwych scheme next year. As ever, our partnership with Westminster Council and our local stakeholders continues as we create a new cultural destination for London. The BID is proud to have pioneered the early thinking for the project, which will act as a major catalyst for growth, with the area becoming a new focal point for the world class creative endeavours in the area. Businesses stand ready to welcome workers and visitors back, and this initial meanwhile use will help to encourage more visitors to the area.

These new plans respond to massive changes to how people visit and work in London, accelerated by COVID-19. These new plans reimagine how people can successfully come to the West End through the following themes; Greener, Smarter, Future and Together to create a globally competitive centre for innovative retail, commercial activities, culture and living.

This September there will be a series of free, exciting and inspiring activities as part of ‘September on the Strand’, which sees two weeks’ worth of events to celebrate the new pedestrian space, including the Vans’ skatepark, a Photo London exhibition, alfresco dining through Northbank BID, community event at St Mary Le Strand and a Visible Skin, a King’s College London exhibition.

This new programme of events forms a key part of Westminster City Council’s wider Westminster Reveals campaign to encourage visitors to return to the city’s streets and enjoy London’s famed cultural scene; connecting celebrated talent and communities. This major initiative and phenomenal series of events sees Westminster City Council bring together renowned cultural institutions and visitor attractions like never before as well as iconic hospitality locations and retail destinations such as Regent Street, Oxford Street, the Strand, Mayfair, Carnaby, Paddington, Belgravia and Little Venice.  

Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) Scheme – Round 3

Support for businesses severely impacted by the extended lockdown period from 21 June – 19 July 2021

Following the receipt of the third tranche of funding from central government, Westminster City Council is announcing the administration of the third round of grants to businesses that were severely impacted by the four-week extension to lockdown from the period of 21 June – 19 July 2021. This is in line with the guidance issued by central government to all local authorities in England to consider and prioritise those business groups that were impacted by these restrictions most significantly.

Businesses need not contact Westminster City Council as we expect the vast majority will automatically be identified within the next two weeks through the council’s internal systems. This will mainly be done using Valuation Office Agency (VOA) business premises codes and eligible businesses will be invited to apply.

Following direction and approval from the Council’s cabinet, WCC has decided to distribute a maximum funding pot of £4m to the following eligible ratepayer business categories, as set out in the guidance issued by the central government:

  • Nightclubs (including sexual entertainment venues)
  • GLA-registered grassroots music venues (where the main business is as a music venue)
  • Travel and tourism sectors (including group travel, travel agents and tour operators, tourist attractions, but not souvenir shops)
  • Wedding industries
  • Theatres
  • English language schools
  • Breweries

For the avoidance of doubt, businesses will need to be able to demonstrate that their premises are wholly or mainly used for one of the above qualifying purposes. A business cannot simply have an ‘element’ of their business that qualifies under one of the above categories, as this would be seen as an ancillary to the business, rather than the main business use of the premises.

If you believe your business to be eligible and you don’t hear from Westminster City Council within the next two weeks, please contact the Westminster Business Unit via email at: businessunit@westminster.gov.uk.

TfL Penalty Charge Consultation

To help keep London moving safely and reduce disruption and delays we are proposing to increase the fine level (TfL penalty charge) from £130 to £160 for people who fail to follow the rules of the red route network (those roads they manage in London). The fine level would be reduced by half to £80 if paid within 14 days.

TfL wants this consultation to be accessible to everyone. There is an Easy Read version of our materials in the ‘Documents’ section. There is also an Easy Read version of our survey.

The proposal in more detail

We are responsible for the Transport for London Road Network (TLRN) also known as ‘red routes. Red routes can be identified by the red no-stopping signs and lines along the road.

The TLRN makes up 5% of London’s roads and carries up to 30% of the city’s traffic. London’s local authorities manage the rest of our city’s roads.

Have your say

TfL is running a public consultation about this proposal. The consultation is open from Thursday 5 August 2021 to Sunday 19 September 2021.

Please share your views by taking part in their online survey. It should take you no more than 10 minutes to complete.

University of Arts London take over shop units across Central London

An innovative partnership between businesses and the renowned arts colleges, Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon Colleges of Arts, University of the Arts London (UAL), has enabled this year’s Graduate Showcase to ‘take over’ a number of retail units and other key locations in central London. 

More than 100 students from the BA Costume for Theatre and Screen, BA Production Arts for Screen and BA Theatre Design courses have their final degree pieces exhibited in 30 sites across the City of London (in the EC Partnerships tower cluster area and Cheapside) and also in the Northbank (mainly in sites along the Strand).

Work on display includes full costumes for productions such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Wicked and Woman in Black, realistic and intricate special effects models, set design maquettes and props and boards detailing the creative process, all highlighting the talents of the students.

Highlights include:

  • At Canon Place, 78 Canon Street, work from all 3 courses is visible from the street in an impressive display. Pieces include a marionette theatre and mannequins with costumes for La Belle et La Bete, Wicked and the Wizard of Oz and special effects models.
  • At One New Change shopping centre, the windows of 3 retail units will show costumes, designs and a floor-to-ceiling exhibition of multiple set design visuals.
  • In Victoria, costumes on display include entries for this year’s Golden Shears tailoring competition and a reproduction of a Marianne Faithful suit from the 60s.
  • At Strand Palace, students have transformed the exterior units into a breath-taking exhibition for passers-by, that showcases the very best skills and talent from all three courses.  Works on display include an array of colourful costumes, vibrant headdresses, a model making desk that features the set for Mojo for the Royal Court downstairs, technical drawings and set design projects from the BA Production Arts for Screen – all visible from the street outside the hotel.

The project activates some of the central London spaces now vacant as a result of the COVID pandemic and its impact on retail and hospitality, providing an attractive welcome for visitors and workers as they start to return to London. It also gives the students a high-profile and easily accessible platform to showcase their skills and expertise. COVID restrictions have limited the ability for the students to exhibit at the college both last year and this year.

The project was developed by the Cheapside Business Alliance, the EC Partnership and the Northbank BID – business collectives working to enhance their local areas and drive local economic growth. In addition to retail units, which includes sites at the historic Leadenhall Market and Paternoster Square, the Strand Palace Hotel and Coutts Bank have also opened up some of their public areas to showcase work.

A list of all locations / map can be found at: http://bit.ly/showcasemap21

Charlotte Fletcher, Chair of the Cheapside Business Alliance said:

“It’s fantastic to be able to support the college students and bring some of their amazing creations to Cheapside. As we see workers and visitors returning to London we want to provide the very best welcome possible and this project with UAL is a great example of how creative partnerships can transform the City.”

Andy Hicks, Chair of the Northbank BID said:

“Providing an outstanding city experience is going to be crucial as the recovery continues, and enlivening our neighbourhoods, collaborating with cultural partners and offering compelling new things to see and do all have a part to play. We are proud to host the students and their work in the Northbank and hope our community of workers and visitors enjoy this unique exhibition.”

Andrew Reynolds, Chair of the EC Partnership said:

“Culture is an essential part of our ambition to diversify the City and we are keen to connect people to cultural activities in innovative and creative ways. This terrific project with UAL, showcasing the huge talents of the students, is a great example of how the arts can animate our spaces and enhance the experience of being in the City.”

Speaking about the project, David Crow, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Head of Colleges for Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon, said:

“I am enormously proud of our graduating students who have worked to achieve so much in what has been a very challenging time. All of us at UAL are delighted that people in London can see their creative work on show and celebrate their achievements. I am also pleased our students can take part in this opportunity to highlight London’s role as a leading cultural centre and an incubator of the next generation of talented creatives.”

Terms & Conditions of the Everyday Kings & Queens Instagram Competition

Promoters: The Northbank Business Improvement District (Registered office address: West Wing, Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA) and Victoria, Victoria Westminster and Whitehall Business Improvement Districts (Registered office address: 14 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0QP)

  1. To participate in this competition, users must share their image of our ‘Everyday Kings and Queens’ installations on Instagram using the hashtag #everydaykingsandqueens and tagging @corinthialondon and @victoriabid or @thenorthbankbid.

    By using the hashtag #everydaykingsandqueenswhen uploading an image or video to Instagram, you consent to your image or video being reshared on the @victoriabid and @northbankbid social accounts. This competition will run from 00:00 on Monday 21st June 2021 until 23:59 on Monday 20th September 2021. Entries made by direct reply to this T&C page will not be accepted.
  2. There will be 1 winner who will be selected at random, after the competition deadline of 11.59pm on 20th September 2021, who has fulfilled the criteria in 1) above. Entries made after this point will not be counted.
  3. The contest is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) over except for the Promoters employees, all contractors and families or anyone directly connected with the organisation, and operators of its brands and concessions.
  4. The prize consists of a Lunch Set Menu for 2 people at The Northall, Corinthia London.
  5. If you are the lucky winner, you will need to provide your email address, contact phone number and home address as instructed at the time of being announced as our winner. Further details will then be provided by the promoters as to how you claim your prize.
  6. We reserve the right to provide an alternative prize of equal or greater value in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
  7. Only one entry per person will be accepted. In the event of multiple entries being received from the same Instagram account, the first entry only will be accepted.
  8. No purchase is necessary; however, you will need an internet connection and access to Instagram. No refund may be claimed for expenses incurred in participating in the promotion, including in relation to the use of the internet.
  9. We reserve the right to exclude any entries which we believe to be inappropriate, fraudulent, or based on misconduct.
  10. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for any cash alternatives in whole or in part.
  11. The prize is not valid in other food and beverage outlets at Corinthia London.
  12. The prize is valid until 30th November 2021 only. (Reservations for the Northall are recommended)
  13. The prize is not valid on weekends.
  14. The prize excludes beverages.
  15. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize from the date that they are announced as a winner. After this time, we reserve the right to select a new winner.
  16. The decisions of the promoters are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
  17. By taking part in this promotion, all participants consent to us collecting, storing and using their personal data submitted with their entry for the purposes of this promotion.
  18. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be used for marketing purposes without the individual’s prior consent.
  19. The winner’s name can be obtained by sending an SAE and covering letter to: Victoria Business Improvement District, 14 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0QP, after closure of the promotion.
  20. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. You are providing your information to Victoria, Victoria Westminster, Whitehall and The Northbank Business Improvement Districts and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion, you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.
  21. The promoters do not accept responsibility for entries that are lost, damaged or delayed. For example, as a result of network, system development, computer or telecommunications failures or fault of any kind – including any hardware, programming code, databases or software used in the promotion.
  22. Winners may be required to participate in related publicity without further reward. E.g.: be photographed for website/newspaper stories, provide a short statement about their win.
  23. The promoters reserve the right to withdraw or amend without notice this promotion in the event of any unforeseen circumstances outside of its reasonable control.
  24. This promotion and these terms and conditions are governed by English law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.
  25. This promotion is subject to Instagram’s terms of services which can be found at: https://www.instagram.com/about/legal/terms/before-january-19-2013/

Explore South Westminster’s Architectural Gems

This summer, we are celebrating our ‘Everyday Kings and Queens’ acknowledging the efforts of our local heroes who went above and beyond during the pandemic while referencing our royal locality.

With this in mind, we have created two map trails to encourage visitors to explore South Westminster and the royal processional route on foot and look out for the area’s iconic architectural gems.

Take in some of the most recognised buildings in the world, exploring the different architectural styles and contributions along the way.

Tag us in your walks @thenorthbankbid @londonfestivalofarchitecture #architecturalgems #LFA2021

Download the map here

Royal Processional Route

Buckingham Palace
– Architects: John Nash, William Winde, Aston Webb, Edward Blore, Thomas Cubitt
– Neoclassical Architecture

Admiralty Arch
– Architect: Aston Webb
– Neoclassical Architecture, Edwardian Architecture

Horseguards Parade
– Architects: William Kent, John Vardy
– Palladian Architecture

10 Downing Street
– Architects: William Kent, Quinlan Terry, Raymond Erith, Kenton Couse
– Georgian Architecture

Big Ben
– 
Architects: Augustus Pugin, Charles Barry
– 
Gothic Revival architecture

Palace of Westminster (otherwise known as the Houses of Parliament)
– Architects: Charles Barry, Augustus Pugin, Donald Insall
– Gothic Revival architecture

Explore South Westminster’s Architectural Gems  

Victoria Station
– Architects: John Fowler, Robert Jacomb Hood
– Contemporary

Little Ben
– Architect: Gillett & Johnston of Croydon

Apollo Theatre
– Architects: E. Wamsley Lewis, Lewis and William Edward Trent
– Art Deco

Nova
– Architect: PLP Architecture
– Contemporary

Victoria Palace Theatre
– Architect: Frank Matcham
– Baroque style

Cardinal Place
– Architects: EPR Architects
– Contemporary

Westminster Cathedral
– Architect: John Francis Bentley
– Neo-Byzantine

Westminster Abbey
– Architects: George Gilbert Scott, Ptolemy Dean, John of Gloucester, Nicholas Hawksmoor, Henry Yevele, Robert of Beverley, Henry of Reyns
– Gothic style

The Corinthia Hotel
– Architect: Francis Fowler
– Contemporary

High Commission of South Africa
– Architect: Sir Herbert Baker
– Classical

Uganda High Commission
– Architects: Kilburn Nightingale Architects

Trafalgar Square
– Architect: Sir Charles Barry

St Martin-in-the-Fields
– Architect: James Gibbs, Eric Parry
– Neoclassical architecture, Corinthian order, Palladian architecture

Charing Cross station
– Architects: Edward Middleton Barry, Terry Farrell
– French Renaissance

Adelphi Theatre
– Architects: Ernest Runtz, John and Jane Scott

Coutts Bank
– Architect: Frederick Gibberd

Strand Palace Hotel
– Architect: Oliver Percy Bernard
– Art Deco

The Savoy Hotel
– Architect: Thomas Edward Collcutt
– Art Deco

Lyceum Theatre
– Architects: Samuel Beazley, Bertie Crewe, Rococo

Somerset House
– Architects: Inigo Jones, William Chambers, James Wyatt, Albert Richardson, Thomas Hardwick
– Neoclassical

180 Strand
– Architect: Sir Frederick Gibberd
– Modernist

St Mary le Strand
– Architect: James Gibbs
– Neoclassic Palladian

Waldorf Hilton:
– Architect: Alexander Marshall Mackenzie

St Clement Danes:
– Architects: James Gibbs, Christopher Wren,
– English Baroque

High Commission of Australia – Australia House:
– Architects: Alexander Marshall Mackenzie, Alexander George Robertson Mackenzie,
– Belle époque

High Commission of India:
Architect: Sir Herbert Baker

Royal Courts of Justice:
– Architects: George Edmund Street
– Gothic Revival

Celebrating everyday Kings and Queens – #HiddenGems

This summer, we are celebrating our ‘Everyday Kings and Queens’.

In keeping with our royal theme, we are spotlighting local businesses as ‘Hidden Gems’.

Visitors and locals can benefit from a special summer discount or offer.

‘Queens G&T’ and canapés with a stay at The Guardsman

Make an overnight stay at The Guardsman Hotel extra special with a complimentary ‘Queens Gin & Tonic’ and a selection of canapés for 2 in the Drawing room. Rooms priced from £290.00 per room, per night inc. VAT.

To claim the offer: To book email reservations@guardsmanhotel.com and state ‘Hidden Gem’ – 1 Vandon St, London SW1H 0AH

Ts&Cs : Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. This rate is based on availability and cannot be combined with other promotions. A 72-hour cancellation policy applies. The Queens G&T can be substituted for any cocktail with the same menu price. Any inclusions not consumed cannot be exchanged for a monetary value.

Play Tapas Roulette

Join Ibérica for their twist on the Kings and Queens campaign, by playing tapas roulette. When dining at Ibérica this Summer, you’ll be in with a chance to win £30 to spend in our online store.

How to play: Quote ‘Tapas Roulette’ when making your reservation. Order your drinks and tapas, and at the end see how many cards you scored. To win, you need a ‘flush’ (a card of each suit).

How it works: Selected secret items on the Ibérica menu will be linked to a card game and each time one of these items is ordered, it will come with that card. Order all four of these special items, and you can trade your cards in for an online shopping voucher!

Ts&Cs: Offer available from 21st June – 20th September. Full terms and conditions can be viewed on Ibérica’s website when booking a table.

A Quintessentially British Afternoon Tea

The Royal Horseguards Hotel are offering 25% off their traditional afternoon tea.

To claim: Book via www.guoman.com/the-royal-horseguards  and quote ‘Hidden Gem’

Ts&Cs: Must be pre-booked to obtain the discount. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion and applies to the afternoon tea only. Valid from 21st June to 20th September.

Five Star Luxury

One Aldwych, London’s cultured, independent 5* hotel invites you to enjoy a fabulous stay with 15% off and complimentary cocktails.

Recently refurbished, One Aldwych has a modern elegance with a relaxed, residential feel in the bedrooms and suites. The hotel is renowned for its iconic Lobby Bar and two stylish restaurants – Indigo and Eneko Basque Kitchen & Bar.

What’s included: Overnight accommodation with 15% off your room rate, full English breakfast each morning, cocktails for two in the Lobby Bar plus a room upgrade on arrival.

To claim the offer: Use the promo code ‘HIDDEN GEM’ when booking online – https://www.onealdwych.com/

Ts&Cs: Valid for stays between 1 June-30 November 2021. The 15% discount is applied against the best available rate and is not available in conjunction with any other offer or package. Rates are subject to change as per availability and demand and may change depending on the date of your stay. This offer includes 1x cocktail per person. The room upgrade to the next room category is subject to availability on arrival. In the event of a cancellation, there will be no charge if you cancel the booking prior to 12pm (hotel local time) 24 hours before your arrival date.

‘The King of Cheese’

Rippon Cheese are offering 25% off their Stilton, the King of Cheese.

Stilton is the UK’s most popular blue cheese with over 1 million cheeses made annually and exported worldwide. It doesn’t just taste amazing, but it’s crammed with goodness and is the perfect picnic centrepiece this summer.

To claim the offer: State ‘Hidden Gem’ when purchasing the stilton in store – 26 Upper Tachbrook St, Pimlico, London SW1V 1SW

Ts&Cs : Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Subject to availability.


‘Royal treatment upon arrival’


M Victoria Street are offering a free glass of bubbly per person with a pre-booked table.

To claim the offer: State ‘Hidden Gem’ when reserving your table – 74 Victoria St, London SW1E 6SQ

Ts&Cs : Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Booking required to redeem glass of bubbly. Subject to availability. Subject to change at any time.

Dine in style, opposite Buckingham Palace

The Rubens at the Palace is located overlooking the Royal Mews. They have five fantastic hidden gem offers to whet your appetite. 

Spoil yourself to the most luxurious of afternoons with 25% off the Rubens Bottomless Champagne Afternoon Tea.

To claim
: Email diningrb@rchmail.com and quote ‘VicBid-AFT’
Ts&Cs: Maximum 1hr30mins seating time. Valid 21 June-20 September. Pre-booking required to receive the discount and subject to availability.

Enjoy 20% off the Rubens Royal Afternoon Tea plus receive a complimentary glass of Champagne.

To claim: Email diningrb@rchmail.com and quote ‘RB-Royal’

Ts&Cs: Valid 21 June-20 September. Pre-booking required to receive the discount and subject to availability.

Renowned for its striking red décor, original artwork and friendly ambiance, The New York Bar at The Rubens blends traditional hospitality with innovative cocktails. While away the hours enjoying 20% off cocktails in the New York Bar. Order at least one cocktail and you will also receive a plate of complimentary bar snacks.

To claim: Email diningrb@rchmail.com and quote ‘NYB-Cocktail’

Ts&Cs: Valid 21 June-20 September. Pre-booking required to receive the discount and subject to availability.

Enjoy a majestic night’s sleep with 20% off the Rubens best available daily rate with breakfast included the next morning.

To claim: Email bookrb@rchmail.com and quote ‘VicBID-Everyday’

Ts&Cs: Valid 21 June-20 September. Pre-booking required to receive the discount and subject to availability.

Dine at the Rubens English Grill any day of the week and receive a complimentary dessert when ordering a starter and main.

To claim: Email diningrb@rchmail.com and quote ‘EG-Dessert’

Ts&Cs: Valid 21 June-20 September. Pre-booking required to receive the discount and subject to availability.

Royal Palace Ducks

“Call in the troops. Whimsical ducks dressed up in traditional British guard uniforms. Each one has it’s very own name and personality.”

The South African Shop London have 3 different variations of Ducks for sale -the Beefeater guard, Queen’s Guard and the Scottish Guard, available in-store for £18 reduced from £21.95.

To claim the offer: State the ‘Hidden Gem’ offer when purchasing 1 or more of the ducks in store – 3, The Arches, Villiers St, London WC2N 6NG
Ts&Cs: Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Subject to availability. The ducks are sized L23cm/W10cm.

‘Feeling Royale’ complimentary cocktail

Complimentary ‘Feeling Royale’ cocktail with a minimum of one main course at Aster Victoria.

This cocktail features on Aster’s new exclusive Tanqueray drinks menu. The ingredients include Tanqueray Royale Gin, chocolate bitter, homemade strawberry, lemon and mint soda.

To claim the offer: State ‘Victoria Bid – Hidden Gem’ offer when booking a table.

Ts&Cs: Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Minimum of one main course required to receive the cocktail complimentary.

‘Trim for a King’

Receive 20% off your first hair visit to Pall Mall Barbers Westminster.

A Royal Appointment – HRH Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge was welcomed to Pall Mall Barbers as a guest of honour to spend time in the barber chair talking with the Pall Mall barbers about the importance of honesty and openness around mental health. The Pall Mall barbers are trained through the Barber Talk program to help clients talk about their mental health concerns. Prince William is a long-term advocate for mental health issues, and his royal visit to Pall Mall Barbers was covered globally by the press.

To claim the offer: Use the code ‘HAIRFORKINGS20’ online at checkout. Book here https://booking.pallmallbarbers.com/webstoreNew/services

Ts&Cs: Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Offer valid on haircuts. The offer can’t be used in conjunction with another offer.

Dining on Buckingham Palace Road  


Situated on Buckingham Palace Road, the newly rebranded Clermont Victoria hotel is offering 25% discount on food.

To claim: Book via www.theclermont.co.uk/victoria and quote ‘Hidden Gem’

Ts&Cs: Must be pre-booked to obtain the discount. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion and applies to food only. Valid from 21st June to 20th September.

2 for 1 in The Hamptons Bar

With an air of sophistication, large elegant gilt mirrors, and high-backed chairs, the Hamptons Bar certainly has the air of royalty. Enjoy 2 for 1 on selected drinks in a daily happy hour 4-6pm.

To claim the offer: Reserve a table by emailing sarosh.shaikh@tajhotels.com and quote ‘Vbid2021’– 54 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AF

Ts&Cs : Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Subject to availability and only available on selected drinks. Subject to change at any time.

Regal Blend Loose Tea

Receive 20% off Whittard’s most popular tea blend, a right royal blend of rich black tea – luxuriantly layered with creamy vanilla and crowned with a flamboyant flourish of red, white and blue cornflower petals.

To claim the offer: State the ‘Hidden Gem’ offer when purchasing in store – 11 Palmer St, London SW1H 0AD

Ts&Cs: Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Subject to availability.

The Royal Burger

The Royal Quarter are offering 50% off their Royal Burger menu when you dine in.

Choose from 3 all-time classic burgers and experience the Royal’s Quarters intense flavour combinations.

Beef Burger normally priced at £8.95 – 8 oz perfectly cooked homemade lean British beef burger. Served on an artisan sesame bun.

Chicken Burger normally priced at £7.50 – Juicy chicken thigh marinated in a zesty Asian flavour sauce. Served on an artisan sesame bun with coleslaw and chilli mayo.

Fish Burger normally priced at £9.95 – Crispy cod goujons with tangy homemade tartare sauce. Served on an artisan sesame bun.

To claim the offer: Purchase in-store stating ‘Hidden Gem’ – 72 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AL

Ts&Cs: Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Subject to availability. Sides are not discounted.

British afternoon tea with ruby sparkle

Book a royal afternoon tea for 2 at 2 Bridge Place Bar and Restaurant at the DoubleTree Hilton Victoria and receive a free Strawberry Bellini.

To claim: Email fb@dtlondonvictoria.com and quote ‘Hidden Gem’

T&Cs: Valid from 21st June – 20th September 2021. Subject to availability. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. One free Bellini per person. All bookings must be prebooked 72 hours prior. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. 

‘King of Gyms’ 1Rebel Pass

Get fit this summer at Victoria’s 1Rebel. Receive 20% off a Rebel Pass.

To claim the offer: State ‘Hidden Gem’ at 1Rebel’s Victoria front desk and receive 20% discount – Nova South building, 5 Allington Ave, London SW1E 5BX

Ts&Cs: Valid from 21st June – 20th September. Offer valid on Rebel passes only, excluding Ride only. 1 redemption per user. Valid at 1Rebel Victoria only. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offer.

The Ivy Royale

Nothing says royal treatment quite like spending an afternoon sipping on a Royale cocktail at the Ivy Victoria.

The Ivy Royale is a signature Kir Royale with Plymouth Gin infused with hibiscus and rosewater, sloe juice and Cocchi Rosa Vermouth topped with The Ivy Collection Champagne.

Why not enjoy this cocktail paired with the Ivy set menu available Monday -Friday from 11:30am to 6:30pm or visit the restaurant’s pink bar on the first floor?

Priced at £12.50

Ts&Cs: Subject to availability

Buy 1 Get 1 Free on Hotel Chocolat’s Royal selectors

5 selectors are included in the offer: • Walnut Praline Selector • Caramel Pecan Chocolate Selector • Chilli Chocolate Selector • Peanut Butter Chocolate Selector • Pistachio Chocolate Selector

To claim the offer: Offer redeemed by stating the ‘Hidden Gem’ offer upon purchasing the pralines in store.

T&C’s Apply: Offer valid 21st June-20th September 2021. Whilst stock last. Offer can only be redeemed once during the offer period. Offer only to be redeemed at UK Hotel Chocolat Strand Location. Offer not available to use in conjunction with cashback offers or combined with any other offer codes or discounts.

Eat like a Royal

Enjoy a free cake or cookie when you buy any main from LEON Victoria Place restaurant or LEON Strand restaurant.

To redeem, go to https://leon.vmos.io/victoriaplace for Leon Victoria Place or to https://leon.vmos.io/strand for the Leon Strand, place your order (select at least one main, and anything else you may like and cookie/cake of your choice), and enter EATLIKEAROYAL at the checkout.

T&C’s Apply: Offer valid in selected LEON restaurants- LEON Victoria Place Shopping Centre and LEON Strand. Valid 21st June to 20th September. Offer can be used only once per customer. You’ll be asked for a phone verification check. This Offer is only available via Smart Order (Click and Collect service) and it cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or LEON Meal Deal (Breakfast Meal Deal, Lunch Meal Deal).

London Landmarks Half Marathon

IMPORTANT NOTE – THE LONDON LANDMARKS HALF MARATHON DATE HAS CHANGED TO SUNDAY 1 AUGUST 2021

We are writing to advise you that, subject to Public Health and Government guidelines, on Sunday 1 August 2021, the third edition of the London Landmarks Half Marathon (www.llhm.co.uk) will take place in Central London for 14,500 participants and will involve some road closures in your area. We are closely monitoring advice regarding the pandemic, and are working closely with the local authorities to put a number of measures in place to ensure that the event is delivered to the required safety standards for the participants, spectators, event crew and local residents on event day. We can assure you that the event will only go ahead if Public Health and Government guidelines allow.  

The event is organised by baby charity, Tommy’s (www.tommys.org) to raise crucial funds, along with fundraising for many other good causes.  Over £17m has been raised to date through the first three years of the event. While participants run past some of London’s most iconic landmarks, the race’s new 2021 theme will shine a light on how we are coming together as a nation during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Please see attached a map and table which shows the road closures and key timings. The route has some subtle changes from previous years to accommodate the safety measures. Within Westminster the most notable change is the start area layout. Specifically, the start line will be located at the east end of Duncannon St just before the junction with the Strand. Staying in Westminster the route layout has changed around Aldwych and for this event the route will take participants along Melbourne Place. Within the City of London the route has been extended to cater for the move in the start line. This extension will see participants using Noble St, Oat Lane and Staining Lane which are new for 2021. As per previous events, the route will be covering 13.1 milesthrough both the City of London and City of Westminster to then finish on Whitehall. Road closures will be in place along the route between 05.00 to 19.00, however closure and reopening timings will vary within this timeframe across the route – please refer to the attached document for specific timings in your area. If there is anyone else in your building you think this may affect, please do share this information with them. 

We are currently working closely with the local authorities and TFL on the traffic management required to manage the event and will be in touch shortly with further details on these road restrictions and their timings. In the meantime, if you have any concerns please do not hesitate to get in touch. 

A Message from our CEO – Annual Budget 2021

A moment of challenge and change…and opportunities too: Ruth Duston OBE, OC

“Today’s Budget acknowledges that while recovery is on the near horizon, the path ahead will be long and challenging.

The extension of financial support, such as the furlough and business rates holiday is welcome, and will help to safeguard thousands of jobs as the recovery gets going.

Businesses thrive on certainty, and while the vaccine is a significant boost for the economy, the nature of the recovery is still very unclear. With the anticipated slow and gradual return of office workers, it is right that the economy is supported in these early months of recovery. It’s vital that as many businesses as possible reopen at the earliest opportunity so we welcome the Restart Grant announcement aimed at incentivising a big reopening in April.

Ongoing support will be a lifeline for many businesses, especially the small and micro businesses in central London, which are such an important part of the capital’s eco-system.

There were 5.7 million micro-businesses in the UK in 2020, accounting for 96% of all businesses. In London there are 1,062,285 – that’s 21.1% of all businesses.

As BIDs, our members are the larger occupiers, but we appreciate that it’s the smaller businesses that create the character and identity of the districts we love. Without them, the task of encouraging the return of the larger corporate occupiers and leisure visitors will be much harder.

Smaller businesses can play a key role in the revitalisation of cities so we must advocate for them. With the right support they can inject new life into vacant retail units and help animate public spaces. I welcome the Chancellor’s interventions today which will support smaller businesses, including more help for the self-employed. Welcome too is the extension of the apprenticeship scheme – the younger generation has been hugely impacted by the pandemic. Our young people are the future leaders of industry and we must listen to them now as we rebuild our economy.

We must go further however. The Government must facilitate innovations across our city by removing red tape and encouraging fresh thinking. I don’t think there is enough of this in the Chancellor’s budget today. The financial support is vital but help in turning good ideas into good growth is as important. I also hope today’s announcements are backed up in due course by clear messaging from the Government as our cities reopen, encouraging people to return safely and with confidence.

A revolution in our towns and cities is coming. BIDs are ready to play their part in the green recovery that has the potential to transform our urban centres. We are committed to tackling air pollution and improving the public realm – thinking outside the box to make our cities more attractive, more accessible and welcoming for our returning workers and visitors. Only radical approaches will achieve what is needed. BIDs are able to galvanise the private sector, turning big ideas into area-wide action.

We now look to the Government to support our endeavours – allowing free enterprise to secure a successful recovery, as heralded by the PM last autumn.

Supporting our smaller businesses and empowering all businesses to innovate and grow will ensure we don’t simply survive this pandemic – seizing this moment of challenge and change to create a lifetime of opportunity.”

Whitehall BID ballot result

London’s latest Business Improvement District (BID) is set to be located in one of the most globally significant political locations after local businesses showed overwhelming support for the development of a Whitehall BID

Following a ballot, 95% of local businesses voted ‘yes’ which saw them endorse the creation of a new BID in Whitehall to provide the local business community with a strong voice to drive change, innovation and stimulate additional investment into the area.

The development of a Whitehall BID was proposed by the Victoria Westminster BID – a collective of businesses committed to working together to improve the local area. The new Whitehall BID will operate as a sister BID, to benefit from shared resources and the expertise of other South Westminster BIDs. Today’s successful ballot result has seen the establishment of London’s 67th BID, and is a promising indication of the growing role that BIDs are playing in London’s ongoing development.

It is envisaged that through collective partnerships*  the Whitehall BID will help drive more than £600,000 of investment across a range of strategic projects over the next two years. This investment will ensure the local area becomes a better place to live, work and visit.

Despite being one of the most iconic and respected locations on the global stage, Whitehall has long suffered from having poor public realm, insufficient pedestrian connectivity and inadequate signage. The overwhelming support for the creation of the Whitehall BID has revealed that local businesses are calling for greater investment in the area, which is underpinned by a powerful business alliance, and a unified vision in setting out a blueprint for improving the local area.

The impact of the pandemic over the last year has highlighted the significant benefits of businesses and communities coming together. By supporting one another, BIDs across the UK have helped local economies survive and start to rebuild, and now more than ever their collective efforts are needed. The newly created Whitehall BID will provide a collective voice for the local business community whilst ensuring that each sector’s commercial drivers and challenges are understood*

Ruth Duston OBE OC, Chief Executive of Victoria Westminster BID said:

While Whitehall has become a national symbol for history and politics, there is so much more that makes up the local ecosystem. It has been encouraging to see that 95% of the local business community have shown their support for the creation of a new BID in Whitehall.

“BIDs are powerful driving forces in providing businesses with a strong voice and ability to make change happen. We have already heard from the local community on what they have identified as their top priorities and I look forward to acting on our plan to help Whitehall discover its full potential.”

The BID’s work across Whitehall will build on priority areas that the business community in neighbouring Victoria Westminster identified and will allow for additional gains, cost savings and a coherent approach to the South Westminster area. Five priorities themes were identified, which are:

  • Public Realm
  • Clean & Green
  • Destination Whitehall
  • Safe & Secure
  • Sustainable Prosperity

Programmes and projects will be delivered under each of these headings over an initial two-year term*. Priority projects include the development of a public realm strategy, improved signage, additional street cleansing, and more marketing and promotion of the area’s historic and cultural venues.

Deputy Mayor for Business, Rajesh Agrawal, said:

“Business Improvement Districts make an enormous contribution to supporting the business ecosystem in local areas across London – something which is even more important than ever in the wake of the economic upheaval caused by the pandemic. I look forward to seeing the value the new Whitehall BID will add to businesses in the area.”

ENDS


 *Please could we have some more information on which partnerships will be made (eg. Other business groups, BIDs etc.)

 *Taken from proposal: “The term will be 2 years as this BID will “go live” on 1 April 2021 and run until 31 March 2023.”

Northbank BID secures £18m of funding to improve Strand/Aldwych gyratory

We are delighted to announce that through the collaborative partnership of the Northbank BID and Westminster City Council, a further £18 million funding to improve the Strand/Aldwych gyratory has been secured. The scheme will not only elevate the well-being of local residents and visitors, but will also act as a catalyst for further development in the area.

With works set to begin this year and be completed by late 2022, the local authority funded improvements will provide much needed green space and enhanced pedestrian access. Under the scheme, the area in front of Somerset House and King’s College on the Strand will be transformed into a traffic-free area by August 2021. The existing traffic gyratory will be removed, and two-way traffic on Aldwych will be introduced, allowing for the creation of a pedestrian and cycle zone on the Strand between Lancaster Place and Surrey Street. The final phase of the scheme will see a new and improved public space in the heart of Central London, around St Mary le Strand Church, creating a community and cultural hub.

By leading this project, Northbank BID has developed a holistic approach for placemaking, which will revitalise the gateway to the West End. The scheme will see the creation of a thriving creative and cultural quarter underpinned by opportunities for collaboration through its strong links to neighbouring districts. Additional key benefits include:

  • Improved air quality, traffic removed from one of London’s most polluted streets and more greenery on the Strand and Aldwych
  • A better, people-friendly experience for pedestrians and cyclists
  • Enhanced connections to Covent Garden, the City, Holborn and the West End

Delivered by an exemplary partnership between Northbank BID and Westminster City Council, the Strand/Aldwych improvements demonstrate the value of public and private sectors working together to deliver meaningful changes for the local community. The level of collaboration across the scheme has set the precedent for future proposals and has acted as a pilot project for repositioning the local area.

Ruth Duston, Chief Executive, Northbank BID, said: “I am proud that the Northbank BID was the driving force behind this fantastic project and delighted that it has taken a major step forward. Our ongoing collaborative work with Westminster City Council to develop these unique proposals puts pedestrians and visitors right at the heart of the plans, by creating new opportunities for walking, exploring and enjoying everything this part of the West End and theatre-land has to offer. 

“When we first proposed this project in 2014, we knew it would have huge public benefits. Today, following the impact of COVID-19, I would argue these benefits are even greater. As a city, it is vital that we provide new reasons for people to visit central London and use our public spaces in a much more effective and sustainable way. This project does just that and I can’t wait to see it brought to life.

“This is just the first step in our wider plans to improve public spaces in this area of London, focusing on sustainability, wellbeing and creating vibrant and memorable experiences for visitors.”

Matthew Green, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Business and Planning, said: “Coronavirus has taught us both how to work at pace and how to improve collaboration with partners. We’ve worked hard with project stakeholders to bring forward our plans which can now be implemented more quickly and at a lower cost delivering a major new public space for Westminster as early as summer 2021.

“We are doing all we can to build business and economic confidence in our city and the substantial budget for this work will help improve the visitor experience, kickstart the economy and create jobs and prosperity for now and the future. Our long-term ambition for Strand/Aldwych is not diminished and we intend to draw in additional investment to realise the permanent scheme.”

A Message From Our Chief Executive

07.01.2021

A message from Ruth Duston OBE OC:


Happy New Year to our business members – I hope you managed to get some rest over the holiday period.

Last year was a transformative and challenging year for us all, and the start of 2021 has brought with it a continued sense of uncertainty as COVID-19 cases surge.

Although London has been subjected to restrictions for many months, the national lockdown announced a few days ago will be another blow to thousands of businesses who are struggling to navigate their way through this pandemic. However, we are starting to see glimmers of hope and I am encouraged that we will start to navigate out of this period in 2021. A UK-wide vaccine programme means that as each day passes, more of our vulnerable population are being vaccinated, bringing us one step closer to a return to ‘normal’ life. A life where we can welcome back Londoners and tourists once again to our vibrant and thriving city.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Government has committed billions to supporting businesses across the country. Now that we can begin to see a timeline for recovery, they must not let these businesses fall at this last hurdle. The Chancellor’s announcement of further financial support is welcome, but I know that grants of up to £9,000 per property will not scratch the surface for Central London businesses who are battling with high rents and severely reduced incomes. We cannot have a ‘one size fits all’ approach and that is why it is imperative that the Government works closely with the Mayor of London to set out a clear recovery plan for London.

This year, the BID team and I will continue to lobby the Government to help foster a co-ordinated response to the pandemic, and to minimise the fallout. In particular, we will push for greater clarity across the spectrum from access to testing and vaccines, to a coherent strategy, plan and timeline as to how we exit lockdown, to clear communication and improved collaboration with the private sector. We will also continue to work closely with our local authority partners to provide businesses with additional guidance and support.

Over the past few months I have been continually impressed and heartened to see the response from our community and how we have come together. London is a unique city, the hub and heart of the UK and so I know that together, and in working closely with the Government, we will be able to bounce-back from this pandemic. It has been a tough start to the year, but together we will overcome this.”

We are keen for our business community to keep in touch with us so if you would like to discuss anything specific with the BID please contact Jacqueline Chambers.

January 2021 Business Update – Covid19

05.01.2021

Trafalgar Square
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement that England will enter into a national lockdown from today, due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases, we are continuing to support our business community with information on resources, measures and support which may be of use. 

The Government has published a 22-page document outlining detailed guidance on the new rules of what you can and can’t do. You can view it here

Government Support for Businesses:
This afternoon, The Chancellor announced that £4.6 billion in new lockdown grants are being made available to support businesses and protect jobs. The one-off top-up grants for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses are worth up to £9,000 and will be granted to closed businesses as follows: £4,000 for businesses with a rateable value of £15,000 or under £6,000 for businesses with a rateable value between £15,000 and £51,000 £9,000 for businesses with a rateable value of over £51,000
A further £594 million is also being made available for Local Authorities and the Devolved Administrations to support other businesses not eligible for the grants, that might be affected by the restrictions. Businesses should apply to their Local Authorities.

The new one-off grants come in addition to billions of existing business support, including grants worth up to £3,000 for closed businesses, and up to £2,100 per month for impacted businesses once they reopen. Find out more here.

GLA Support for Businesses:
The London Business Hub has launched a series of free, dedicated webinars delivered by expert speakers that have been carefully designed to answer your questions and to help guide London’s small businesses through the many challenges presented by COVID-19. They have also brought together a range of resources and information to help you through these difficult times and to help you find the right support. This includes access to funding, including their own grant funds for businesses, as well as support to help you reopen your business safely. Find out more here.
 

Premier Inn Halves Rents for Christmas

22-12-2020

CoStar News has revealed that Whitbread, the UK’s largest hospitality group and owner of the ubiquitous Premier Inn budget hotel chain, has written to all of its landlords saying it will pay half its December quarter rent.

In a letter sent yesterday to all its landlords, Mark Anderson, Managing Director, Property & International at Whitbread Group, the listed owner of Premier Inn, says that it is calling on its “landlords, who have been the only stakeholders not to have shared some of [the] pain to date, to provide a proportionate degree of temporary financial support”.

Whitbread owns Premier Inn, which operates more than 800 hotels in the UK and Ireland, as well as restaurant brands Beefeater, Brewer’s Fayre, Cookhouse & Pub, Bar + Block Steakhouse, Thyme and Table Table. The restaurants operate on Premier Inn sites.

Read the full article here

Villiers Street Consultation

Public Realm Improvement Proposals on Villiers Street

F.M. Conway Ltd / WSP have been commissioned on behalf of Westminster City Council to undertake stakeholder engagement to find out your views about the proposals for the Villiers Street Public Realm Improvement works.

The Vision for the scheme is:

Provide a street that is both visually inviting and pedestrian friendly, supported by enhanced security and timed road closures, to improve the look and feel of the public realm and help to improve the way it is used.

Read full City of Westminster Letter here

Find out more here

Click here to complete consultation survey. Consultation ends Monday 30 November 2020.

All responses to the consultation can be emailed directed to WSP

Advent Calendar – 12th December

Win 90 minutes of free social darts at Flight Club Darts Victoria

Advent Calendar day 12

Win 90 minutes of free social darts at Flight Club Darts Victoria

T&Cs Apply. 

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

The winner will be contacted the following working day via email.

#ChristmasinLondonHQ

Advent Calendar – 16th December – Prize 1

Win a 1-hour group workout for up to 20 people at Cathedral View with Sarah Ryder of BEAR Fitness

Advent Calendar day 16

Win a 1-hour group workout for up to 20 people at Cathedral View with Sarah Ryder of BEAR Fitness

T&Cs Apply.

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

The winner will be contacted the following working day via email.

#ChristmasinLondonHQ

Advent Calendar – 9th December – Prize 2

Win an Afternoon Tea for 2 at St Ermin’s Hotel

Advent Calendar day 9

Win an Afternoon Tea for 2 at St Ermin’s Hotel

T&Cs Apply. Valid until 31st December 2023 inclusive & is subject to availability. Black-out dates apply. This voucher is non-transferable. Afternoon Tea is served in the Tea Lounge or The library at St Ermin’s Hotel.
Advance booking is required.

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

The winner will be contacted the following working day via email.

#ChristmasinLondonHQ

Advent Calendar – 8th December – Prize 2

Win an overnight stay with breakfast for 2 in a superior room at Page 8 Hotel

Advent Calendar day 8

Win an overnight stay with breakfast for 2 in a superior room at Page 8 Hotel

T&Cs Apply. Valid until March ’23

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

The winner will be contacted the following working day via email.

#ChristmasinLondonHQ

Advent Calendar – 7th December – Prize 2

Win a one-year free membership for Two Temple Place

Advent Calendar day 7

Win a one-year free membership for Two Temple Place

T&Cs Apply. The offer also includes two Temple Place books and a copy of their recent catalogue. Lasts until December 2023.

Read the full Terms and Conditions here

The winner will be contacted the following working day via email.

#ChristmasinLondonHQ

Advent Calendar – 2nd December – Prize 3

Win a pair of tickets for the London Transport Museum’s virtual Hidden London tour

After months of anticipation, London Transport Museum has virtually restarted their popular Hidden London tours programme.

The team are now running three digital tours of Brompton Road, King William Street and Kingsway.  These disused spaces have extremely restricted access so the Museum will never be able to offer public tours, but with these digital tours, you will get the special opportunity to take a peek inside with an expert guide via Zoom.

As part of the South Westminster BIDs Christmas Advent Calendar, one lucky winner will have the chance to win a pair of ticket to join a virtual tour of Brompton Road station. This special behind-the-scenes tour of the station which has been closed since 1934, is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the stations forgotten past as a Second World War bunker. Each tour lasts for approximately 90 minutes over Zoom including a Q&A session. More details about the virtual tour programme can be found here.

T&C’s Apply. 

Read full Terms and Conditions here

Winner will be contacted the following working day via email.

#SWBIDsChristmas

New BID research shows vaccine ‘could boost London’s economy by £41bn and save 57,000 jobs’

The South Westminster BIDs and Midtown BID have commissioned research from Arup, which has found that there will be a significant boost to the central London economy if a successful vaccine is found.

The report models for a three-day return to the office as a result of a successful vaccine. This would add £22 billion to the central London economy and has the potential to save 31,000 jobs in entertainment, retail, hospitality and accommodation.

The research has also modelled for worst case scenarios. Should the lockdown continue for most of 2021, London’s economy could see an £8.4 billion hit and around 117,000 jobs in entertainment, retail, hospitality and accommodation would be at risk by 2021.

Our Chief Executive, Ruth Duston OBE OC, said:

“The realistic prospect of a vaccine will fill many in the business community with great hope. It’s clear from these projections that any measures which mean people can return to their offices come with enormous economic benefits.

But even with office workers at their desks three days a week by next year, we must remember that occupancy rates will still be significantly lower than they were pre-Covid-19.”

The report is welcome news given the recent announcements about vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna. We will continue to push for the Government to look into how our great city will adapt and re-open in the future.

Read the Evening Standard article here

Read the full report here

Terms and Conditions – London Heritage Quarter online Christmas Calendar

  1. The competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom.
  2. Participants must be over 18 years of age.
  3. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
  4. By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
  5. Multiple entries from the same person are only permitted for different prizes. Strictly one entry per person per prize.
  6. The overall competition will run from 1-24 December 2023. After this time, no further entries to the competition will be permitted.
  7. No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.
  8. Participants can only enter competitions on social media if stated within the prize T&C’s.
  9. The Promoters (Victoria Business Improvement District, Victoria Westminster Improvement District,  Whitehall Business Improvement District and The Northbank Business Improvement District) reserve the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in the event of a catastrophe, war, civil or military disturbance, act of God or any actual or anticipated breach of any applicable law or regulation or any other event outside of the promoter’s control. Any changes to the competition will be notified to entrants as soon as possible by the promoter.
  10. Prizes will be allocated on a random selection basis. Prize is as stated and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The prize is not transferable. Prize is subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice.
  11. Prize winners will be chosen at random by software, from all entries received and verified by the Promoter and/ or its agents.
  12. Winners will be notified by email within the time frame specified within the said prizes T&C’s. If the winners cannot be contacted or do not claim their prizes within 24 hours of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winners and pick replacement winners.
  13. Winners of prizes entered between 22nd & 24th December will be notified in the first few working days in January 2024.
  14. The Promoter will notify the winners to arrange redemption.
  15. The Promoter’s decision will be final in respect of all matters to do with the competition and no correspondence will be entered into.
  16. The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by English law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England.
  17. The winner agrees to the use of his/her name and image in any publicity material. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent.
  18. The winners’ names will be available upon receipt of a request by email to the following address: Marketing@thenorthbank.london/events@victoriabid.co.uk 24 hours after the closing date.
  19. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.
  20. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Network. Information is being provided to Victoria, Victoria Westminster, Whitehall and The Northbank BIDs only and not to any other party.

South Westminster BIDs Virtual Events – November

This month we are back with more virtual events

Less Stress, More Focus

We all know what it’s like to feel stressed – being under pressure is a normal part of life. Becoming overwhelmed by stress can lead to mental health problems. Mindfulness has received growing attention recently, with studies highlighting that it can support individuals in reducing stress, increasing focus, promoting creative thinking and enhancing communication skills.

To mark National Stress Awareness Day, our resident mental fitness expert, Charlotte Wiseman, hosted a webinar exploring what mindfulness is, looking at the benefits and practices. Watch the event again here.

Connect with your customers digitally

“Effective digital marketing is less about displaying your products for people scrolling past and far more about cultivating an engaged community.”

Join Westminster Digital for two webinars where they will explore how to connect with your customers online, how to cultivate an engaged community, how this leads to more effective marketing and what to look for when commissioning a digital agency.  Book your place here.

Illuminated River

Join Ciron Edwards from Illuminated River to learn more about the Illuminated River project, a new public art commission which is transforming the capital at night.

Learn about the artwork, the history of the bridges and how the team installed such an ambitious project on a working river. Book here.

Lockdown restrictions

As the country enters a second lockdown, we’ve put together a quick summary of the new restrictions in place, economic support available to our business community and what the BID is doing to help.

Overview of new measures:

  • The following businesses have to close: all non-essential retail, hospitality (although takeaway is allowed), indoor and outdoor leisure facilities, entertainment venues and personal care facilities.
  • Note: the Government’s guidance around non-essential retail says “including, but not limited to clothing and electronics stores, vehicle showrooms, travel agents, betting shops, auction houses, tailors, car washes, tobacco and vape shops”.
  • No household mixing indoors, apart from childcare and previous support bubble rules remaining
  • International travel is not allowed, except for work purposes, while travel within the UK is not advised
  • Outdoor recreation and exercise is still allowed
  • Education settings – schools, universities and colleges – will remain open

Economic support:

The Government has announced a raft of measures for additional economic support. In terms of the most significant:

  • The furlough scheme will be extended until the end of March, at 80% of people’s wages. Employers will have to pay NICs and pension contributions. The Government will review the policy in January to decide whether economic circumstances are improving enough to ask businesses to contribute more.
  • The Job Retention Bonus will no longer be available. Instead, they will redeploy a retention incentive at the appropriate time.
  • For self-employed people, the next income support grant which covers November to January will increase to 80% of average profits (up from 40%) up to £7500.
  • Giving reassurance to the devolved Governments, the Chancellor emphasised that this scheme was for all people in the United Kingdom. He also announced that up-front guaranteed funding for the devolved administrations is increasing from £14bn to £16bn.

The BID’s work:

Over the past seven months, we have been working to support our local community through a range of different initiatives to keep you safe. Read about our work here.

WCC – Licensing Policy Consultation

Westminster City Council is updating its Licensing Policy and they want to know what you think.

The Licensing Policy aims to support licensed premises, while preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety and protecting children from harm. Under the Licensing Act 2003, the Council is required to review its policy by January 2021. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, they are proposing to maintain, where possible their current policy approach.

Changes to Cumulative Impact Zones
The policy review is based in part on a Cumulative Impact Assessment. This research tells us if there are areas in the City where additional restrictions are needed. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, they are proposing to maintain, where possible, their current policy approach. They are taking into consideration the fact that the sector needs time to recover and feel that increased restrictions would not be appropriate.

The revised policy retains the existing West End Cumulative Impact Zone, except for the North East area beyond Covent Garden.


Edgware Road and Queensway/Bayswater have been removed from the zone. Instead, there is a new Special Consideration Zone for these areas and other parts of the West End, Victoria and Mayfair. This allows new licences to be granted, as long as businesses demonstrate how they will manage and mitigate local issues.

Other changes include:

  • an expectation for licensed premises to promote inclusion in Westminster’s night-time economy
  • a revised Protection of Children from Harm policy to make safeguarding a key consideration
  • a revised ‘core hours’ policy, based on premises use rather than licensable activities
  • a change to the way they present their policies
  • replacement of the ‘Theatres, Cinemas, Other Performance Venues and Qualifying Clubs Policy’ with two new policies: one for ‘Cinemas, Cultural Venues, Live Sporting Premises and Outdoor Spaces’ and another for ‘Qualifying Clubs’.

For Westminster’s full consultation details and how to let them know what you think, go to:  www.westminster.gov.uk/licensing-consultation

            Consultation closes:    Sunday 15 November 2020.

If you have any questions, Westminster are holding virtual Q&A sessions

  • Monday 19 October, 17.00 – (this question and answer session is for businesses)
  • Monday 26 October, 16:00 – (this question and answer session is for residents)


Clean Air Villages 3 – Cleaner deliveries and advice for businesses in Northbank BID

Cross River Partnership (CRP) is delivering the Clean Air Villages 3 project (CAV3), funded by Defra’s Air Quality Grant, with Westminster City Council as the leading partner, to improve local air quality. Working together with Northbank Bid, the CRP’s CAV 3 team are engaging with the food and beverage for a free trial in the local area.  The project would like to consolidate fruit and vegetable deliveries from New Covent Garden Market suppliers, and use zero or ultra-low emission vehicles.

CRP’s CAV 3 team are offering free advice and guidance about deliveries to and from your business in the Northbank area. Guidance can lead to both cost savings as well as air quality improvements.

Link for more information:

  • CleanCar Dongles trials with businesses who are looking to switch to electric vehicle – please contact Laura Jacklin for more information at laurajackin@crossriverpartnership.org
  • The CRP Clean Air Villages Directory which lists local businesses who deliver their services by ultra-low emission, to emphasise their initiative in improving local air quality, as well as encourage other businesses to adopt ultra-low methods of delivery. More information with Rachael Aldridge rachaelaldridge@crossriverpartnership.org
  • CRP fortnightly LiveShares – online, interactive discussions with industry professionals around air quality, COVID-19 and more. Please see recordings of all past LiveShares here, and check out CRP’s eventbrite page for upcoming events.

If you’re a restaurant in Northbank BID and you receive fruit and vegetable deliveries, then  please contact Project Manager, Kate Fenton: katefenton@crossriverpartnership.org or Project officer, Carina Mesquita: carinamesquita@crossriverpartnership.org

Westminster Academy

Westminster Academy Year 11 Mentoring Programme

Westminster Academy is an outstanding (Ofsted rating), non-selective, 11-18 academy school situated in North Westminster. It is the only non-fee-paying school in London to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme. Westminster Academy aims to develop students who can collaborate and embrace challenges as inquirers, thinkers, communicators and risk-takers; students with a growth mindset and an international perspective, who are knowledgeable, principled, caring, open-minded, balanced and reflective. 

The academy is establishing a mentoring programme for their current year 11 students and are looking for volunteers to undertake five mentoring sessions during the course of the 20/21 academic year. Mentors would meet via Zoom with their mentee. The Academy Careers Lead will deliver a training session to mentors on the 13 October, 2-3 pm with the first mentoring session taking place at 15:00 on the 20th October.

School children have experienced significant disruption to school life and their education this year as a result of COVID-19, this mentoring programme offers volunteers an ideal opportunity to deliver tangible support to students at Westminster Academy in their GCSE year and further education choices.

About Westminster Academy

If you would be interested please contact:

Eileen Gallagher, Business & Enterprise Programme Manager

egallagher@westminster.gov.uk

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENT ON TAX FREE SHOPPING

ACTION REQUIRED

On Friday 11 September the Government announced that it plans to stop offering tax free shopping to all international visitors after 31 December 2020. This will mean losing a £3.5 billion sector and undermining Britain’s global appeal and competitiveness. We know from talking to our business community that this is yet another blow, at a time when many are still struggling due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The decision is not just something that will impact retailers, it will have a ripple effect across many sectors including hospitality and culture. Similarly, it is not only a London problem – the reality is that the tax free incentive does encourage visitors to the UK and this gives people a clear reason to go elsewhere. We are urging the Government to rethink its decision.

We urgently need your help to express the devastating impact this decision will have on a wide range of sectors across the whole of the UK.

Please see more information below about what action can be taken over the next few weeks.

  1. Write directly to the Chancellor: Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, 1 Horse Guards Road, London, SW1A 2HQ / email: public.enquiries@hmtreasury.gov.uk

Contact your local MP – you can find your MP and contact details here https://members.parliament.uk/FindYourMP

Workplace Mental Health Blog

Over the last few months The Northbank BID have been working with Charlotte Wiseman as part of the South Westminster BIDS Virtual Event Series. Charlotte has put together the below blog post on the topic of social wellbeing in the virtual workplace.

SOCIAL WELLBEING IN THE VIRTUAL WORKSPACE

As we have all discovered over the last few months, social wellbeing is a core component of our health. It is integral to our mental, emotional and physical health. We are the most nurture dependent species that has ever existed on the planet so when we don’t have social interactions, we can feel demotivated, self-deprecating, overwhelmed and we are more susceptible to stress from everyday experiences. Not only do our relationships impact our mood but they actually change the structure of the brain. It has even been suggested that social isolation is as bad for us as smoking 15 cigarettes a day!

As we move into a new way of living and working, we must remember that although we are physically distanced, we are not socially distanced. Technology means that we are more connected than ever however, we do need to learn new skills to maintain high quality connections in this remote workspace.

To help you start this learning journey, here are 5 simple tips to optimise your interactions to support your wellbeing, productivity and your community.

MANAGING VIDEO FATIGUE

  • Video calls and meetings are exhausting, more exhausting that face to face conversations. The reason is that when we meet in person, much of our communication is non-verbal so when we ‘meet’ online our brains need to work a lot harder as it only has verbal information to rely on. This increases our cognitive load, the effort and energy needed to communicate effectively. For this reason, if you are doing lots of calls in a day you need to ensure you are taking enough breaks to counteract that and you need to use your breaks wisely. Simple ways to do so are ensuring you have 5-10 minutes between calls and use this time to take yourself off technology. Looking at your phone or checking emails does not qualify as a ‘break’. Get outside, go for a walk, try some mindfulness or listen to some music. Ensure your evenings also include some tech free time so you are giving your brain the time to refuel and recalibrate between your days.

COMMIT TO YOUR COMMUNITY

  • It is important that we connect with people every day, which should include at least one video call as well as any other forms of contact that suit you. Do remember that some people may feel more comfortable with a phone call, rather than a video, so respect that, be adaptive and creative. If you are trying to build a community in your workforce, consider arranging ‘potluck’ coffee dates. Simply pair up people from all levels and departments in the company to have a 15-minute virtual coffee chat. This will get new conversations going and ensure people feel connected. It is particularly powerful if you are trying to onboard people at this time. The downloadable “high quality conversations” worksheet can act as a prompt for such conversations.
  • If you are looking to build a stronger community out of the workplace, make a list of people you would like to connect with. Consider who you can call to celebrate with, to learn from, to be inspired by, to ask for help from or to offer help. Try putting 3 people in each list and working through this over the next few weeks.
  • While doing this, do also remember that if you have been on lots of calls and you need some time away from your computer then it is ok to say No to a request for a call. Kindly decline and if you are happy to then schedule a call for another time.

HIGH QUALITY CONVERSATIONS

  • When we are not getting out and about as much as normal, it can feel like we have nothing to chat about. This can feel awkward when speaking with colleagues and friends alike. It can also be hard to be honest when we are feeling down or anxious, particularly if we know we are lucky in many other ways. Regardless of this, it is essential that we have a time and place to express how we are feeling and to acknowledge that “it’s ok to not be ok”. This is what is known as ‘emotional literacy’ and it is a cornerstone of wellbeing and resilience. To make your conversations more powerful, try to be honest about how you are feeling and encourage others to do the same. You may want to ask, “how are you feeling on a scale of 1-10?” and then explore what is contributing to that. You can also explore what the highlight of someone’s week has been as well as the biggest challenge and try to focus on what has been learnt as a result. The current time is an opportunity for great learning and calls are a great catalyst for this. You can download this tips sheet to help you on this path.

The bottom line is that both maintaining our relationships and being innovating in our communication styles is essential at this time. As leaders and team members, this is our opportunity to use this time to build stronger communities, cultivating trust, connecting more honestly and supporting each other. Commit to this now and you will reap the rewards for the long-term.

If you have any further questions or queries please contact Charlotte directly charlotte@charlottewiseman.com 

We Are Open

With the lift of social distancing requirements and retail businesses reopening from 15 June 2020. The Northbank area is starting to re-open. For those missing the central London atmosphere, the Northbank area is here to welcome you. We’ve created a specialised list of stores, which have re-opened, but with certain measures and varied timings in place on our website. 

Store NameStatus Extra Information
Holland and Barrett – StrandOpen
Waterstones – Trafalgar SquareOpen Opening Times
Mon-Sat (10am – 5pm)
Sun (12pm – 5pm)
Moss : Savoy Taylors Guild Open
Roka AldwychOpenOnly for delivery
Boots Open
Hobbs, Covent Garden Open
The Northbank Business Status

*This information is being updated daily – subject to change.

Central London Protests

The Northbank BID has a duty of care to update our local businesses and community, regarding protests which happen within the BID footprint. As a working parter with the Metropolitan Police and other authories, we are able to share pieces of information. Please see below:

Protest in central London – 03 June 2020 update

Westminster City Council – Re-opening Hub

Reopening safely: For businesses that are considering reopening on 15 June we’ve put together some guidance to help you to reopen safely. Their reopening hub has guidance on managing queuing arrangements, sample social distancing stencils and markers and also covers specific issues such as risk management of fire, legionella, work and food safety. The Council will continue to keep this advice updated in line with the release of any further Government guidance and as best practice is developed. 

Free bespoke information and guidance: The Westminster Business Unit is now offering bespoke appointments if you need advice on preparing to reopen your business. This is a free service and your appointment can cover a range of issues as businesses move towards reopening safely from 15 June. You can book a 15-minute telephone appointment with the Business Unit by contacting businessunit@westminster.gov.uk or calling 020 7641 2070. For more information on the service, please visit website.

The Passage – #DonateYourDinner

The Passage asks celebrity chefs and the public to share recipes and fund vital food parcels

One of the UK’s largest homeless charities, The Passage, is launching an urgent #DonateYourDinner campaign to help feed London’s homeless community during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Supported by Nadiya Hussain, the celebrity chef comments on the campaign: “Let’s not let homelessness become normal.  Let’s not walk past.”

The UK lockdown has meant homeless people are even more vulnerable, with many shelters having to close their doors.  The Passage, based in Westminster, has supported hundreds of rough sleepers into emergency accommodation over the past few weeks.   

The charity is continuing to provide vital support, including preparing and delivering hot meals to over 300 people helped off the streets and into accommodation, seven days a week. 

The Head Chef Claudette Dawkins and her army of volunteers in The Passage kitchen have created a brand new Food Hub, preparing hot, nutritious meals and are hoping for inspiration from celebrity chefs who have been asked to provide recipes.

It costs £10 to provide a food parcel to a homeless person every evening which includes a hot meal as well as breakfast and lunch for the next day. The Passage needs to raise £300,000 in the next ten weeks to ensure London’s homeless don’t go hungry.

The Passage’s CEO, Mick Clarke said, “our priority is to ensure that homeless people have somewhere safe to stay, are well fed and do not return to the streets.  We are asking people to donate £10 to help fund a daily food parcel for one homeless person. At this time of lockdown, when many of us are unable to enjoy a meal with family and friends, we also encourage people to join us on social media to celebrate food by sharing recipes and their dining experiences.”

The #DonateYourDinner campaign is asking people to post a photo or video of people making and eating dinner.  Today, food has never played a more important role in our lives. The Passage hopes to recognise this by bringing people together to celebrate food and encourage the public to share their own ‘dinner’ experiences. 

Emergency Services Support

We would like to say thank you to Coutts , Proud Embankment,  The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) who have opened their doors within The Northbank area to support all first responders including the Metropolitan police, the Ambulance service and the London Fire Brigade.

Phone charging, beverage dispensary, seating, wifi and bathroom access will be available at set times. 

  • Coutts – Monday – Friday, 07:00 – 19:00 
  • IET- Monday – Friday, 10:15  – 15:45 
  • Proud Embankment – Monday – Friday, 08:00 – 17:00

St Martin-in-the-fields Easter Virtual Services

As the Church is now temporarily closed and the public are encouraged to stay home, St Martin-in-the-fields are livestreaming all of their Easter services.

To view, please visit their Facebook page during the below date and times.

Wednesday – 6:30 pm 7:30 pm

The City is My Monastery: Sharing With The Lent Course concludes on Wednesday evening with Sam Wells preaching. 

Maundy Thursday – 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Foot Washing and Institution of the Eucharist led by Sally Hitchiner. If you would like to join in by washing the feet of those in your household, please have a bowl, a jug of warm water and a towel to hand. This is followed by a vigil of the watch until 10pm.

Good Friday – 10:00 am to 11:00 am 

The Stations of The Cross.

Good Friday – 12: 00 am to 3:00 pm

The Three Hours, with reflections by Sam Wells on the theme of Boasting of Foolishness: Christ’s Cross in the New Testament Epistles

Easter Sunday – 5:30 am to 6:30 am

Easter Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter.

Easter Sunday 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Eucharist

City of London Police Guidance: Fraud

Beware scams relating to Covid-19 pandemic

Criminals will use any opportunity they can to take money from innocent people. This includes exploiting tragedies and global emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to scam people in a variety of ways. The number of these scams are only likely to increase and we need individuals and businesses to be fully aware and prepared.

As more people stay indoors and work from computers and laptops at home, there is more opportunity for criminals to try and trick people into parting with their money at a time when they are anxious and uncertain about the future.

We have already received nearly 400 reports of fraud related to COVID-19, the majority of which are online shopping scams where people have ordered protective face masks, hand sanitiser, and other products, which have never arrived. We have also seen a large amount of phishing emails and texts circulating, that use COVID-19 as a hook, and try to get recipients to click on links or attachments which harvest information and lead to the individual revealing personal or financial details.


Is fraud rising?

While the number of reports of fraud in general is not increasing, we are warning people that the current social situation we find ourselves in could lead to any number of fraud types increasing as this immediate public health crisis unfolds. We are advising people to be particularly vigilant around:

  • Computer Software Service Fraud – as more people work from home, fraudsters may capitalise on slow networks and IT problems, to commit computer software service fraud. Be wary of cold calls or unsolicited emails offering you help with your device or to fix a problem. Attached is a helpful graphic with protection advice.  
  • Mandate Fraud – with more people working at home, it may be easier for fraudsters to impersonate senior decision makers, with seemingly valid reasons why they cannot be contacted, and request a change in a direct debit, standing order or bank transfer mandate, by purporting to be an organisation you make regular payments to. The change they ask you to make will divert funds to their own bank account. Attached is a helpful graphic with protection advice.

Advice for businesses in regards to people working from home

Many organisations are either moving to working remotely for the first time or significantly increasing it, and this presents a number of cyber security challenges. Advice on how to respond to those challenges is set out in the NCSC’s working from home guidance.

There are a number of practical steps organisations can take to reduce the risk including:

  • Supporting people to use stronger passwords and setting up two factor authentication.
  • Ensuring staff know how to report problems, especially those related to security.
  • Creating ‘How do I’ guides for new software and tools staff may be using.  
  • Using VPNs to allow users to securely access the organisation’s IT services.
  • Ensuring devices encrypt data whilst at rest.

Some organisations may be allowing staff to use their own devices to work remotely. In this case, please refer to the NCSC’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) guidance.

In addition to following the guidance set out above, it is worth being aware of phishing emails which trick users into clicking on a bad link. Once clicked, the user is sent to a website which could download malware onto your computer, or steal passwords. We know that cyber criminals are opportunistic and will look to take advantage of people’s fears, and there is evidence that the coronavirus outbreak is being exploited in this way.

Those who do fall victim shouldn’t feel bad – these scams can be extremely convincing – but what they should do as quickly as possible is report it to their IT department when the incident is work-related or Action Fraud when it is personal. They can also open their antivirus (AV) software if installed, and run a full scan, following any instructions given. If they’ve been tricked into providing password, they should change their passwords on all their other accounts. The NCSC’s guidance on suspicious emails provides more tips on this.

Our Cyber Griffin team have also created a series of short video guides on how to keep you and your family safe while online at home which contain practical hints and tips and cover a range of topics, including passwords, phishing, vishing and multi-factor authentication.

To report a fraud please follow this link: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ Phishing emails can be forwarded to NFIBPhishing@cityoflondon.police.uk  or via https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report-phishing

London Piers Closure

A message from Transport for London

Thank you very much for your ongoing support this week in helping us reach as many people as possible with the crucial message: Do not travel unless it is essential.

I wanted to make you aware that from tomorrow (Saturday 28 March) TfL’s piers will be closed until further notice, due to river operators temporarily suspending their services. This excludes the Woolwich Ferry which will continue to operate a reduced service.

While the number of people using river buses and TfL’s transport network has fallen dramatically, we still need even more people to stop travelling and stay at home. This is critical to fighting the spread of Covid-19, protecting the NHS and maintaining safe and reliable transport for health, logistics and other critical workers.

In addition to providing NHS staff and those who work in Home Care and Adult Social Care with the opportunity to use Santander Cycles for free for journeys under 30 minutes, we are also now offering free car parking to critical workers at all TfL owned car parks. A list of all the car parks owned by TfL, including the number of spaces, is available online: tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/station-car-parks

Critical workers are encouraged to display supporting evidence in their windscreen, such as photocopies of their work pass with sensitive information removed, or a letter of evidence from their employer. As an additional measure we will also waive any fines received by health and social care workers this week (23 March). If any workers have received a fine, then they are encouraged to appeal with supporting evidence of their work and it will be cancelled.

London Needs You!

Across London there is a drive underway to recruit volunteers to help support the capital’s response to the COVID-19 emergency.

The COVID-19 Taskforce, comprising local authorities, emergency services and others involved in the crisis response, is looking to provide support in the form of Executive Assistant/clerking support and Project Managers.

Volunteers are being asked to step forward to help. 

Primary tasks for the EA’s would involve:

  • Attending regular meetings (via teleconference), taking high quality notes/action points and disseminating within short time scales
  • Following up on actions (where appropriate) and updating relevant documentation
  • Low level project management, diary and general support

The Project Managers could be involved in a variety of tasks, so would need a solid skills base, able to pick things up quickly and respond in tight timescales.

Work would need to be undertaken on a rota basis to ensure full weekday/weekend coverage 8 – 6pm, so they may require a bank of staff to call upon.

If you are interested in helping this effort please contact Jade

Full Statement – COVID-19

A message from our Chief Executive, Ruth Duston OBE, OC

The COVID-19 national emergency is a rapidly changing crisis impacting all our lives. In a little over a week we have moved from a largely ‘business as usual’ strategy being adopted by the Government to now, waking up as a society living under the strictest restrictions on our personal liberties since the second world war…and there may still be more to come. 

It’s seems hard to overstate how huge an impact these changes will have on our country, our businesses, families and loved ones. 

The recent economic support packages announced by the Government indicated the scale of the emergency being faced due to COVID-19. Our politicians are increasingly talking of being on a war footing, not only to fight the deadly virus but to help everyone survive these extraordinary times.

Through my BIDs and partnerships across London I represent thousands of businesses, large and small across numerous sectors. No one is untouched by this crisis. Of course I welcome the economic support being offered – the £330 billion initial package announced by the Chancellor last week is significant (it equates 15% of our economy) but there is no sugar-coating this….many businesses will suffer, some will go under and very many jobs will be lost. 

So in these deeply challenging times, as business leaders, what can we do and where can we find hope?

I strongly believe that evoking the ‘Dunkirk Spirit’ of the 1940s is not just a nostalgic comfort blanket, it is going to be the key to us all getting through this. 

We must pull together and think creatively. They say necessity is the mother of invention, and I am seeing this is absolutely the case in our dealings with our business communities in recent days. 

Many have moved quickly to provide enhanced online offerings and we are proudly supporting these endeavours. Our work to support local businesses, employees and our wider community need not cease – we just need to adapt to changing circumstances. In business as usual times, BIDs and business partnerships are playing an increasingly vital role supporting businesses, promoting growth and working with partners to create vibrant, thriving places. In times of crisis, our work is arguably even more important. 

I am working closely with partners across London, including local authorities, the Met Police, MPs, the GLA and many others to coordinate a response to support communities. Many of you will know that I am a great believer in partnership and believe the best outcomes arise from collective action. This is so true in the current crisis – we are all in this together. 

But beyond this vital day to day support, where is the hope, and how can we be constructive and prepare well as this crisis evolves and ultimately, ends? 

When the shock of these latest restrictions eases and we settle into the new normal, we must seek to learn from these experiences. Across industry we have talked a lot in recent times about changing trends in the workplace and the move towards more flexible and remote working. This is not the pilot we would have wished for, but we can use this time to identify where our systems need improvement. Perhaps one of the legacies of this emergency situation will be a new and innovate approach to working practices? There are potentially significant benefits for peoples’ wellbeing, air quality and pressure on transport infrastructure. It may seem incongruous to ponder these issues at the moment, but they are important and we should seek to find the positives in these very dark days. 

But crucially, we must be working now for the recovery that is to come. Our business communities will need significant support when business starts to get back to normal, whenever this may be. 

BIDs and business partnerships are well placed to take a lead role in the campaign to support London’s recovery, working with partners to help stimulate growth, boost confidence and provide vital guidance and advice. Funds that would have been invested in events and programmes in the immediate months have already been held back and these will be ready to invest in a campaign to kick start the recovery. 

We stand ready to continue to be a great source of stability and continuity.  Custodians, a steady helping hand, a protector, an advocate and cheer-leader…BIDs have many roles and we carry each out with commitment and a passion for supporting enterprise and knowing that together we can be stronger. 

Now we must prepare to take on the role of our lives. 

COVID-19 Business Hub

During the uncertain times of the Coronavirus Pandemic we have collated the below useful links which may be of use to our business community.

If you have any questions relating to COVID-19 and the business community, please contact us via email.

From our Chief Executive, Ruth Duston OBE OC

From our Chair, Andy Hicks

South Westminster BIDs

South Westminster BIDs Polling – Evening Standard article

Latest Updates

Westminster City Council Update – 21.01.2022

Additional Restrictions Grant – Round 4

Guidance : Coronavirus: how to stay safe and help prevent the spread


Local Businesses

Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Security

Westminster City Council

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan

Transport for London

King’s College London

Further Information

Volunteering Opportunities


E-Bulletins

Westminster City Council: Air Quality Action Plan

Air quality is the number one concern for people in Westminster. To help tackle this problem, Westminster have identified several priorities to help keep our air clean:

  • reducing or cleaning dirty journeys and create better infrastructure for electric and low emission vehicles
  • placing emissions and pollution at the forefront of decision making on public spaces and buildings and encouraging all those who shape spaces and buildings to do likewise
  • making environmentally-friendly options easier for everyone 
  • moving the air quality agenda forward through thought leadership and innovation

WCC have now published a new Air Quality Action Plan which provides a comprehensive overview of how they will continue to make progress on this agenda from 2020 to 2024.

The consultation period for the new Air Quality Action Plan closed on the 3rd March 2020.

Read Westminster’s full Air Quality Action Plan or find out more about Westminster City Council’s plans to help tackle air pollution by visiting their website

The Northbank BID Response – Click Image:

If you have any questions or comments regarding this consultation or the topic please contact Jade Thomas

We all share responsibility to tackle air pollution #AirWeShare

Statement from Ruth Duston, OBE, OC

Chief Executive of Northbank BID

I am looking forward to visiting an imaginative and thought provoking installation in Covent Garden this month. The Air We Share Pavilion creatively uses balloons to visualise the amounts of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) in the air. 

The activity aims to raise awareness of air quality issues and build public engagement. 

The BID strongly welcomes this campaign, led by Capco in partnership with Hubbub and King’s College London. We work closely with colleagues at Capco and share the aspiration to take positive action to tackle air pollution. The Air We Share campaign is a great way to start the new year and a good forerunner to our own air quality campaign, due to launch in April. 

We know that air pollution ranks as one of the most important issues to our businesses, local residents and the thousands of people who visit Northbank every day. At the BID it is a priority and we are determined to tackle it. In the Spring we will be launching a year long campaign to raise awareness of the role we all have to play in improving the quality of air in the capital and making healthier lifestyle choices 

The area around the Strand and Aldwych, which sits within the Northbank’s footprint, is one of the most polluted hotspots in London and in fact last year it was the first area in London to exceed the legal limit for NO2 for the year.

We are working with public and private sector partners to improve air quality across the area. Since the BID was established we have developed a number of programmes to both lower air pollution and encourage behaviour change so that people can make healthier choices. 

Together with Westminster City Council and local businesses, our recent Business Low Emission Neighbourhood Street interventions provided greener zones and cleaner, more inviting walking and cycling routes for the 30m people who visit the area annually. But our work must continue if we are to help the country reach the stretch target for zero net emissions by 2050.

We work closely with public sector partners to take the worst polluting vehicles off the roads. The ULEZ introduced last year is undoubtedly making a big positive difference, not least in relation to the introduction of low emission buses. 

But we all have a role to play in addressing air pollution – small changes in behaviour can make a big difference. One of our recent studies done in collaboration with King’s College London showed that by taking a quieter, greener route on their commute Londoners can reduce exposure to pollution by 47%. Also, opting for Click&Collect rather than having parcels delivered at work could reduce central London traffic – and resulting air pollution – by at least 10%.

Air pollution is a thorny challenge for London but is one we are facing head on. It is not something that can be solved by quick fixes or just by Government intervention. If we are to meet the target set a new collaborative approach is required. 

That’s why we support activities like the one running in Covent Garden until the end of January and we are excited to launch our campaign in April. Through our work we are demonstrating that everyone can make a difference and that the key to solving London’s air pollution challenge is partnership. 

New Northbank BID Chairman Appointed

The Northbank BID has appointed Andrew Hicks, the Estate Director for Covent Garden at Capital & Counties Properties PLC (Capco), to be Chair of its Board. Andrew has been a member of the Board for the last two years, and takes the helm at a crucial time for the area. 

The BID has been at the forefront of pushing for the Strand / Aldwych transformation, which is now being led by Westminster City Council in collaboration with a number of partners including the BID, and enhancement projects for Villiers Street and Strand are also gathering momentum. These major projects, alongside the core work the BID is leading through its key areas of Safe & Secure, Public Realm & Environment, Marketed & Promoted and CSR, are ensuring the continued evolution of the Northbank as a leading central London destination for business and leisure. 

Andrew has worked in the area around Covent Garden for the last 13 years – he has vast experience of influencing the transformation and place shaping of Covent Garden and is looking forward to bringing these skills to support Northbank, the Executive team and the delivery of its strategic objectives. 

Andrew has worked closely with the BID for many years – most recently he has chaired the Public Realm Steering Group which has taken a lead role in the development of the Strand / Aldwych transformation scheme. He understands the vital role that BIDs play in place making and appreciates the transformational work that is possible when the public and private sector coalesce around shared goals. 

Speaking about his appointment, Andrew Hicks said:

“This is an exciting time for BIDs in central London and specifically for the Northbank. Our work over the last five years has demonstrated the pivotal role of BIDs and how we’ve been able to help improve our local environment to benefit all visitors. The Northbank is an iconic district and we are committed in our endeavours to make the area as good as it possibly can be. This means tackling some of the challenges we continue to see in the public spaces across the area as well as harnessing the huge opportunities available to benefit all businesses, visitors and our residents. I look forward to supporting the team and fostering ongoing collaboration as we continue to champion and deliver our vision.”

Welcoming his appointment, Ruth Duston, OBE, OC, Chief Executive of the Northbank BID said:

“Andrew’s substantial experience and extensive knowledge of the area make him a great Chair for the BID. His belief in the role that the private sector can play in the stewardship of our public spaces means he will be a great champion for the BID. On behalf of the whole Executive Team I am looking forward to working with him and the rest of the Board as we progress our ambitious Business Plan in the coming years.” 

Established via a ballot of local businesses in 2013, last year the Northbank BID was renewed for a second term. 

Announcement of Results: Northbank BID Renewal Ballot

Westminster City Council has today (23/02/18) announced the result of The Northbank Business Improvement District renewal ballot.

94% of the levy-paying community voted in favour of the Northbank BID’s next five year term (2018-2023), totalling 98% by aggregate RV. This result provides an overwhelming mandate for the BID to continue delivering real improvements for the Northbank area.

Ruth Duston, Chief Executive of The Northbank BID said, “We are delighted by this strong show of support from the business community, which not only demonstrates a vote of confidence in the work that we do and our ambitious programme for 2018-2023 but means that the Northbank can continue to be part of the BID success story. We’ve made significant progress in our first term, not least generating an additional £1million for the area, but there is still much to do. As well as delivering on our public realm vision, we will continue to work with the Mayor of London’s team to help tackle air pollution in central London – a key priority for the capital. Our ultimate goal remains transforming the Northbank into London’s most dynamic and vibrant quarter for all who work, visit and live in the area and we look forward to working collaboratively with our partners to continue to bring positive change to this strategically important district.”

Matthew Dixon, Chairman of The Northbank BID and Commercial Director of Corinthia Hotels, said, “I’d like to thank each and every one of our members for helping us to reach this significant milestone for the BID. Much of our success is down to the strong collaborative spirit between the BID, our partners and the local community and your continued support makes our important mission possible. Public-private partnerships such as BIDs are essential to ensure that London remains a leading global destination and over the next five years, we will do all we can to continue to champion local initiatives and investment in local infrastructure to help unlock growth across the capital and bring benefits to the whole community. The Northbank already has so much to be proud of and together, we will work towards a better and brighter future for this vibrant part of central London.”

The BID Executive and Street teams value your continued support and look forward to a prosperous five years ahead.