Grand launch for Kirkwall BID

Kirkwall’s Business Improvement District (BID) is officially launched today, Saturday.

The launch features a number of activities in and around the town centre, including a performance from Orkney Rocks!, the Jo Davies Dancers, an appearance from Helga the rabbit, face painting, balloons and the launch of an Easter egg hunt which will run over the Easter holidays.

BID organisers will also be encouraging the public to complete a questionnaire about their thoughts and opinions on the Kirkwall town centre, along with their shopping habits.

Manager of the Kirkwall BID, Anthea Hume, said: “We want the event to draw folk into the town centre so that we can capture their views on what the wider public would like to see in the town centre.

“In conjunction with the launch event, we want to encourage folk to have a day out in the town, to have lunch in the cafes, restaurants etc and to take advantage of any offers which the various shops may be offering at that time.”

The Kirkwall BID will give town centre businesses an opportunity to directly influence developments that will bring new life and energy to the area over the next five years and beyond. Through the BID, a series of activities and projects will be planned, aimed at increasing footfall in the town and delivering a strong trading environment to support employment.

The launch event will start at 11 am with activities taking place throughout the day. The Jo Davies Dancers will be appearing at Glue’s Garden Centre at 2.30pm.