Interest group means to raise voice for town
AGROUP that was set up to be a voice and support network for businesses in Macclesfield has become a community interest company. Macclesfield Means Business was launched in November 2017 and counts some of the town’s prominent firms as members.
Now it has announced its formation into a community interest company the group plans to press forward its agenda to improve and promote Macclesfield.
Members intend to ask Cheshire East Council and Macclesfield Town Council as well as other business groups to assist with this aim.
They say other neighbouring towns - such as Stockport and Altrincham - have successfully turned round with the formation of business improvement districts (BIDs).
And having a BID in Macclesfield is something that is being actively looked at.
Nick Bianchi, director of Macclesfield Means Business and Arighi Bianchi, said: “A BID isn’t just about generating revenue, it’s about supporting the business community and in turn making Macclesfield a better place to shop, live, work and visit.
“We have a strong calibre of like-minded businesses in Macclesfield, all are doing extremely well in their own market place, as well as showing passion for the town as a destination.
“We will be assisted by experienced individuals who have a lengthy involvement with Macclesfield.
“Our aim is to use this experience in a positive way and by harnessing the support and enthusiasm of other local businesses, help revitalise the town centre.”
Paul McLeman, a director at Orbit Developments and Macclesfield Means Business, says issues such as car parking and empty shops need tackling.
He said: “Not a great deal has been done in terms of improving and promoting Macclesfield as both a business and leisure destination.”
Currently Cheshire East Council has a strategic plan for the regeneration of Macclesfield that has gone through consultation.
It involves the formation of the centre into seven different ‘character areas’.
Macclesfield Means Business holds quarterly breakfast events discussing topics such as branding, IT security, business growth, staff retention and satisfaction.