Campaign launched to smarten the appearance of City businesses

12.29.13pm GMT Mon 11th Dec 2006

"Business Pride", a new scheme to encourage businesses in the city to care for the appearance of their premises and therefore enhance Norwich's reputation, has been launched.

Cllr Hereward Cooke, leader of the Liberal Democrats at Norwich City Council, and the driving force for this programme, said: "Business Pride has been a central plank of Lib Dem policy. It supplements the successful Civic Pride campaign launched some 4 years ago which encouraged the citizens of Norwich to work alongside the Council for the City`s improvement. The part that businesses can now play in enhancing the offer and appearance of Norwich is substantial. We hope that many businesses across the City centre will be actively engaged in rolling out this initiative."

The launch of the scheme by Cllr Felicity Hartley, Lord Mayor of Norwich, and Liberal Democrat councillor, was directed by the City Centre Management Partnership (CCMP) before an invited audience in the Norwich Union`s hospitality suite. . Founding members of Business Pride include Norwich Union, Castle Mall, Chapelfield, Marks and Spencer, the Norwich Society, the Norwich Lanes, the City Council and a wide cross-section of businesses large and small.

Under the plans for Business Pride, business members will be invited to ensure that the exterior of their premises are shown off to their best and cleanest advantage. Graffiti will be removed or painted out, litter will be cleaned from back alleys and doorways, and the planting of flowers and shrubs will be encouraged. In recognition of a company`s willingness to participate, a Business Pride Charter will be issued for public display.

Cllr Cooke is grateful to CCMP for producing the leaflets and literature for the campaign, which will be sustained in the months ahead.

Cllr Cooke said: "This is an attempt to leave all visitors to the City with the impression that Norwich is well cared for by every aspect of its community. It should lead to many return visits and of course more business for participating members."

Further information from Cllr Hereward Cooke tel. 01603 624827 or 0788 793 1252 (mobile).