The main objectives of the BID scheme is to raise confidence in the city centre by creating a cleaner, safer, more attractive and more accessible city centre. More than 700 city centre traders contribute to the Business Improvement District (BID) scheme, which is the first of its kind in Wales.

The project will run for five years and Swansea Business Improvement Limited was set up as an independent non for profit organisation to deliver the project. Traders elected a board of sixteen directors that represent businesses of various sectors who are all enthusiastic to see the city utilising its strengths.

Summer '08 Ad Campaign:

Winter '07 Ad Campaign:

Dave Kenny, owner of 3 independent shops in the Arcade and Chairman of Swansea Business Improvement Ltd said:

"The BID project is a real opportunity for traders in the city centre to share ideas and become actively involved in helping to promote the city centre. We are also working on behalf of the traders to make sure we are linking with some key stake holders, including the council to make sure we keep our BID levy payers updated with the latest developments and information."

"Some of the key projects we are looking at include improving car parking and access, safety, events and the cleanliness of the city centre. Every BID trader has an opportunity to have their say and share their ideas to help improve the city centre. Caroline Jeffs manages the day to day running of the projects, so I would encourage any trader who has an idea to contact Caroline for a discussion on how they can become involved."

Work to promote Swansea and raise your profile too

BIDS members all have the opportunity to become an Ambassador company with Swansea Futures - the private public sector partnership set up to promote the area as a whole. Usually charged at £100+, BID members who are willing to work with Swansea Futures to profile what the area has to offer, can have free access to information, news and support as well as getting a company profile on the www.abayoflife.com website, together with a link to your business web address.

In order to qualify you need to be a paid up member of Swansea Business Improvements Ltd and will need to make a formal commitment to work in partnership with the company, having done that you can start to receive the benefits straight away. Visit the website www.abayoflife.com to find out more.