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.