IPM Case Study: WeareWaterloo BID
Waterloo faces many different challenges with competing audiences and interests. Although it is located in central London, with a nationally important railway, it often bypasses attention from local and international visitors. However, its geography has led to various difficulties, with large, cumbersome roads that create disconnection throughout the place. The issues of noise, pollution and connection led to the local BID to act.
WeareWaterloo Business Improvement District decided to embark upon a placemaking strategy at the start of January 2022 and has aimed to increase connectivity of the area, combat the issues around green space and market the place as a destination to visit. The main goal of the strategy has been to identify how Waterloo’s past can provide ways to inform Waterloo’s future. It has identified the issues facing Waterloo at present, examined what has been working and what has not, and how initiatives could be improved to help improve the place.
This case study, written by Natalie Raben shows how successful strategies can help boost local pride, footfall, and engagement in the area. It shows the achievements and challenges of the project. In doing so, it demonstrates the effectiveness of BIDs and their ability to transform High Streets and Town Centres.
This provides an example of how BIDS can work to help places become a place for business and pleasure but also a place for locals to be proud of. This case study is an important read for those who are willing to engage the construction of a placemaking strategy.
Read about the work undertaken in Waterloo by clicking on the link below:
About the author
Formed in 2006, the Institute of Place Management is the international professional body that supports people committed to developing, managing and making places better.