Published: Wed 18th December, 2024
More than 130 businesses in Loughborough have received support through initiatives aimed at tackling crime and improving digital skills.
The initiatives are part of the Living Loughborough project, which is being led by Charnwood Borough Council and supported by funding from Loughborough Town Deal.
The Love Loughborough BID (Business Improvement District), which is working with the Council, has delivered the crime reduction scheme and digital business support programme to these local businesses.
In total, 131 businesses have benefitted from a range of support so far, including crime reduction training and advice, with some traders being given radios to aid the sharing of information as part of the town’s retail radio scheme.
The initiatives will continue to be delivered into 2025/26, so even more businesses can be supported during the remainder of the programme.
Martin Traynor OBE, Loughborough Town Deal chair, said: “We are always keen to back initiatives like these that directly benefit our local businesses and the wider community. With our support, we’re not only revitalising the physical infrastructure of the town but also empowering businesses to adapt and succeed in an ever-evolving landscape.”
Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the borough council’s lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres, said: “This project demonstrates our commitment to supporting local businesses and enhancing Loughborough town centre.
“By providing practical tools and training, we are creating a safer, more dynamic space where businesses can thrive and where residents feel welcome. The Living Loughborough Project is about fostering a vibrant and sustainable future for our town.”
Lisa Brown, Love Loughborough BID manager, said: “We’re thrilled to see so many businesses embracing the support available through these initiatives.
“Whether it’s tackling retail crime or enhancing digital skills, these programmes are making a real difference to the way businesses operate and connect with the community. We are committed to helping our town centre remain vibrant and resilient.”
Irish Clothing in Loughborough is one of the businesses to have taken advantage of the support being offered.
Serapha Storrs, retail and systems manager at Irish Clothing, said: “The support from the BID has been invaluable for our business. We have gained practical skills and knowledge that are already making a positive impact. It’s fantastic to be part of a community where businesses are supported to succeed.”
Living Loughborough aims to rejuvenate Loughborough town centre and make it a more dynamic, pleasant, safe social hub where residents and visitors can choose to meet, eat, be entertained and shop.
The project secured £2.87 million of funding from the Town Deal, which is being invested in the town markets, expansion of the CCTV system, a digital heritage trail, events and improvements to Queen’s Park and Southfields Park.
This is one of 11 schemes backed by the Town Deal after it secured £16.9 million of Government funding. In total, the projects are worth more than £40 million of investment for the town.