Many of the changes have been happening for years and Covid-19 has simply accelerated them. The growth in online retail is just one example. But it is now and in the future as lockdown restrictions are lifted, it is more important than ever to support our business communities, great retailers and superb hospitality venues, right across Basingstoke. So The Gazette is teaming up with the borough council to launch the Love Our Local Business campaign, in print, online and on social media. Over the coming weeks we will be giving extensive coverage and exposure to our brilliant local business communities.
The pandemic has been a very difficult time for businesses across the borough and we would like to thank all those businesses who have helped to prevent the spread of COVID-19 locally by following the latest guidance. As we look ahead to the road out of the latest lockdown, we are committed to continuing our support for businesses to help them adapt. This includes distributing emergency funding support, with over £60 million in grants and rate reliefs delivered since March 2020, and helping businesses with the latest government guidance. We will be working closely with our town centre partners, including Basingstoke Together BID, The Malls and Festival Place to ensure that when the town centre is able to reopen, shoppers can look forward to a safe and enjoyable experience.
AN ORGANISATION to promote businesses in Basingstoke is set to be wound up next month after owners voted against its renewal. Basingstoke Together, which is funded by the businesses in the town centre, was seeking a second five-year term after first being set up in November 2015. However, in a vote of business rates payers held last month, it was decided that the organisation should not be renewed. It means that the services that the Business Improvement District (BID) provides, which include promotion of its shops and representation on the council and other authorities, will cease to exist from next month.
COVID marshals will be on hand to support visitors and businesses to follow the latest government guidance this Christmas. Employed by Venture Security and funded by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and the BID, the four marshals will remind shoppers to wear face coverings and promote social distancing measures. In addition, they will support businesses to ensure they remain Covid-safe. It is understood they will support existing town rangers. A number of measures have been put in place in Basingstoke including walking on the left hand side of walkways, an increased cleaning schedule of public areas, hand sanitising units and extensive signage reminding shoppers what they need to do.