Businesses in Putney and Wandsworth town centres have voted to become part of a Business Improvement District. In Putney, 75% of businesses voted to implement wide-ranging business plans for their BID areas, which will be funded by the businesses themselves through a levy. In Wandsworth, 73% voted yes.

Wandsworth Council business spokesperson Kim Caddy said local businesses will now have more influence over the trading environment and be better placed to respond to challenges and opportunities.

The Putney BID aims to enhance the town centre’s reputation as a welcoming and accessible place to shop, visit and work; create a safer and cleaner town centre; and bring Putney businesses together to help reduce costs and act as an effective lobbying body.

Proponents of the scheme say town centres can expect to benefit financially, with up to £1.4M being generated across five years in Putney, and over £1M in Wandsworth.