Preston BID

21/08/2026

Over 30 Preston city centre based businesses have taken part in three specialist training courses designed to help them prepare for the requirements of Martyn’s Law.

The Law is named in memory of Martyn Hett, who was tragically killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack.

The legislation requires venues to assess terrorism and public risk and take practical steps to keep the public safe.

The three full-day courses, funded via the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), brought together businesses and organisations from across the city centre, including hospitality venues, those in events and public administration, and retailers.

Delivered by experienced experts in licensing, security & crowd management, and trauma first aid, the courses provided practical guidance to help businesses understand their responsibilities, assess risks and develop effective responses to potential incidents.

John Boydell, chair of Preston BID, said: “The safety and resilience of our city centre is a shared responsibility - the courses that we have delivered have provided businesses with valuable, practical knowledge to help them further prepare for Martyn’s Law.

“Bringing together businesses from different sectors also provides an opportunity to share experience and develop a consistent approach to public safety across the city centre.”

The programme was designed to support businesses at a time when preparedness for acts of terrorism and other serious incidents is an increasingly important part of operating public-facing premises.

Anna Petterson from Waterstones, participants in the course rated it as excellent, commenting that is was “really informative”.

Whilst the general manager of Baluga Bar and Club, Oli Ingram, said that the training “Was really good and informative, making us more prepared”.

The BID is committed to supporting businesses in understanding their responsibilities and building confidence in their ability to prevent, respond to and recover from serious
incidents.

With representatives from a diverse range of city centre settings attending, the courses have also helped reinforce the importance of collaboration between businesses, ensuring that safety and preparedness remain central to the city centre experience.

20/08/2026

Thanks to the businesses which attended today's first consultation event, for BID's proposed next term.

If you couldn't make it, don't worry, there's a number of sessions still to come, two in person, and one virtual.

Details are below.

18/08/2026

City centre businesses, who contribute to the BID, have access to regular valuable data insights.

14/08/2026

BID contributing businesses are invited to attend a consultation event, where the BID will present their outline proposed next term plan, following business consultation.

The session will provide an opportunity for businesses to hear directly about proposed initiatives, understand how your feedback has informed the plan, and see how the BID’s plans aim to support city centre business and the wider area, moving forward.

Please confirm your attendance via email to: [email protected] – stating your company name and the name(s) of those wishing to attend. A confirmation will then be issued to you.

11/08/2026

BID's response to the Prime Minister's annoucements regarding high streets.

11/08/2026

The future governance of Lancashire is once again under discussion, with proposals for the county to move towards a Mayoral Combined Authority led by an elected Mayor.

As Lancashire's largest independent business membership organisation, N&W Lancashire Chamber of Commerce believes it is essential to take a position which reflects the views of the wider business community.

Recent discussions across have highlighted potential opportunities around greater devolution, increased investment, stronger representation with central government and enhanced powers over transport, skills and economic development.

However, questions also remain regarding costs, accountability, governance arrangements and the practical benefits for businesses.

Before the Chamber adopts a formal position, they want to hear directly from based businesses.

As a business owner/operator, you are invited to complete this short survey to help understand:

• Your level of support or opposition to an elected Mayor for Lancashire.
• The opportunities you believe an elected Mayor could bring to the county.
• Any concerns you may have regarding costs, bureaucracy or governance.
• The economic priorities which should be addressed through future devolution.

Your feedback will help shape the Chamber's response to Government and other stakeholders and ensure that the voice of Lancashire businesses is clearly represented in the debate.

The survey should take no more than five minutes to complete and all responses will be treated in confidence. Findings will be reported in aggregate form only.

Take the survey here - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/77R7G5H

10/08/2026

FINALISTS REVEALED IN HIGH STREET HEROES AWARDS AFTER RECORD PUBLIC VOTE

The finalists in this year's High Street Heroes Awards have been announced, following a record-breaking response from the public.

A combined 84,000 thousand vote were cast, recognising the outstanding businesses and individuals who make Preston's city centre such a special place.

The awards, organised by Preston BID in partnership with Visit Preston, celebrate the retailers, hospitality venues, leisure businesses and independent operators that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding customer experiences and help create a vibrant city centre.

This year's awards attracted the highest number of public votes since the competition began, demonstrating the strong support local people have for Preston's high street businesses and the people behind them.

The finalists will now look ahead to the High Street Heroes Awards ceremony on Wednesday, October 7, where this year's winners will be crowned in front of fellow businesses, partners and invited guests.

Mark Whittle, from Preston BID, said: "The response to this year's awards has been phenomenal. Receiving a record number of public votes shows just how passionate people are about supporting Preston's fantastic high street businesses.

“Every finalist should be incredibly proud of reaching this stage, having been recognised by the customers and communities they serve.

“We look forward to celebrating their achievements and crowning this year's winners at what promises to be another fantastic awards ceremony in October."

Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Arts and Culture at Preston City Council, said:
“Congratulations to all the finalists at this year’s High Street Heroes Awards.

“With an amazing number of votes, it’s apparent that Preston is supported by fantastic people dedicated to enabling our city to thrive and be a great place to live, work, and visit.

“We’re honoured to support and host the awards in our own venue at The Guild Lounge.

“Preston has a unique range of successful chains and inspirational, flourishing independent businesses, and we wish all the finalists every success at this year’s awards.”

The High Street Heroes Awards recognise excellence across a range of categories, shining a spotlight on the businesses and individuals who help make Preston city centre a welcoming and thriving destination.

The full list of finalists can be seen here: http://high-street-heroes.co.uk/

The winners will be announced, together with the winners of the ‘Bloom Your Business’ competition, at the High Street Heroes Awards ceremony, on Wednesday, 7th October in the Guild Lounge.

07/08/2026

Thanks for everyone who voted in this year's High Street Heroes Awards, with the BID and Visit Preston.

The voting has now closed.

A record 84,000 votes were cast this year, showing a lot of love and support for the people and businesses who make Preston proud.

The finalists will be informed on Monday...good luck everyone!

07/08/2026

Last couple of hours to show your support... 🫶

The awards celebrate the outstanding contribution of local businesses and their teams