Sunderland Seafront BID to launch in May

Following a vote where 91% of businesses voted in favour of the scheme, the business improvement district will focus on the seaside towns of Roker and Seaburn.

Plans were discussed and approved at a council meeting in February, with the specific aim of better connecting the seaside towns with the city centre, growing tourism in the area, and the restoration of Roker’s lighthouse and pier.

It will be run by Sunderland BID, which is now in its third term and covers the city centre out to Sheepfolds.

In a BID area, business rate payers are charged a levy, which is in turn used in projects that aim to boost local businesses.

The money raised will be matched by Sunderland City Council through an annual grant.

Chief executive Sharon Appleby said: “We are absolutely thrilled that businesses in Roker and Seaburn have recognised the value that a BID can bring to the area.

“They have shown that they have confidence in the benefits and that we can replicate the success that we have had in the city centre along our beautiful coastline.”