HALESOWEN businessmen and politicians gathered in Somers Square to launch the campaign to secure a Business Improvement District for the town.

The three month campaign aims to persuade over 400 businesses to vote yes to the creation of the Halesowen BID.

The BID, if successful, will support the development of the town and tackle issues including parking, footfall and will offer support for all businesses in the area across a 5 year period with view to continue in 2022.

Speaking at the launch on Friday Wayne Edwards, chairman of the Halesowen Chamber of Trade, outlined the importance of the BID.

He said: “We’re thrilled with the support demonstrated here today. There is a strong passion amongst the people of Halesowen to create a brighter future.”

Barry Wheeler, BID development manager said: “One of the most important parts of the BID’s success is based on creating a voice for the wide variety of businesses in Halesowen.

"Today we saw companies of all sizes and sectors come together to demonstrate how powerful that voice can be.

"With a vision based on pride and passion for the town, the BID's aim is to help Halesowen rediscover its sense of identity as a thriving town perceived as a popular destination for both business and pleasure.

"High on the BID's agenda is increasing footfall within the town by working to provide safer and cleaner streets as well as acting as a support mechanism for existing businesses to ensure that they thrive, not just survive.

"Through one united voice the BID will invest an annual sum of £120,000 back into Halesowen and its businesses."

Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris joined supporters along with the West Midlands mayoral candidate Andy Street and Labour councillor Ian Cooper to back the BID's campaign.