MORE than £1million of extra cash will be invested in Northwich after its businesses community voted to make the town the first of its kind.

Northwich is now the first retail Business Improvement District (BID) in Cheshire.

The yes vote will release £1.25million worth of private sector led investment during the next five yeas, transforming the town into a thriving and lively shopping destination of choice.

Gaynor Sinar, chairman of the Northwich BID Steering Group, said: “This is the biggest opportunity Northwich town traders have had in 40 years, and it’s brilliant that Northwich has taken control and voted to have a say in our future.

“The ‘yes’ vote has ensured Northwich can develop in to an exciting destination for consumers, traders, businesses and residents, highlighting the exceptional quality and range of products and services our high streets have to offer, as well as showcasing our town’s extraordinary heritage, truly putting Northwich on the map.”

Clr Mike Jones, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC), said: “I’m absolutely delighted that Northwich has given the go ahead to become the first retail BID in Cheshire.

“It is an important part of the regeneration of Northwich, to enable it to become a town that people want to visit and achieve the success it so rightly deserves.”

Groundwork Cheshire is managing the project, ensuring that the BID will deliver services that bring a real benefit to the business community.

Jane Hough, from Groundwork Cheshire, said: “Groundwork is thrilled to support the BID and work with the businesses in the town to manage this investment over the next five years.

“The project has been a rip-roaring success, and we are delighted that it has finally come to fruition.”

A number of projects are already in the pipeline to be commissioned before the BID officially begins on September 1.

Investment over the five-year span of the BID will focus on improving the marketing and profile of Northwich, developing the portfolio of events and festivals and supporting businesses to create a better connected town centre.

It will tackle crime and security in the area and create a greener and cleaner town centre for residents and traders.

For more information visit northwichbid.co.uk.