Linen Quarter BID strengthens team as geographic remit doubles

Belfast’s Linen Quarter Business Improvement District has expanded its team by 50 per cent.

New additions to its team include a communications and events manager to oversee an ambitious events programme to enhance the area as a vibrant destination; a sustainable district manager, supporting the organisation’s ambition to transform Linen Quarter into the north’s most sustainable district, and an administration and business engagement manager, responsible for key stakeholder engagement and member outreach.

And further enhancing the BID’s influence and authority as a key voice on city issues, managing director Chris McCracken has been appointed as the Northern Ireland chair of the Association of Town and City Management, which will see him represent the region on a range of key policy issues.

Last January LQ BID was appointed for a second five-year term with 92 per cent approval from its members.

And over the next four years, it is expected to deliver a proposed £3.7 million investment to an extended remit which includes The Gasworks, southern stretches of the Dublin Road and Great Victoria Street, representing around 300 businesses and tens of thousands of employees.

LQ BID chair Sarah Cull, top, said: “I’m proud to witness the growth of the organisation, which has undoubtedly become an integral and influential partner across the city.

“BIDs have a significant effect on – and beyond – their areas, bringing in vital investment and forging valuable partnerships with the public and voluntary sectors as well as with other city organisations.

“LQ BID has also now established itself as a leading voice in regeneration, place-making, sustainability and employment initiatives.”