The launch of the Boston Town Centre Business Association (BTCBA) has been hailed a success by organisers after more than 30 influential business leaders gathered in the town this week.
The official event took place on Thursday 12 February at the White Hart Hotel in Boston, bringing together traders, partners and key stakeholders to mark the start of a new chapter for the town centre.
The association, which is supported by Urban Foresight and Boston Borough Council, is currently being led by representatives from the Lincolnshire Federation of Small Businesses, Boston VIBE, Wilcox and Carter, Cammacks, Phoenix IT Solutions, Tip Tan Toe, R&M Salon and Café Noglish. It aims to unite local businesses under a single, independent and business-led voice when it formally launches next month.
The creation of the BTCBA follows a year of engagement with town centre businesses, including surveys, interviews and open discussions focused on the future of the high street, the challenges facing traders, and the need for stronger collaboration and representation. That feedback has now been brought together in a new organisation designed to represent, support and champion the interests of local businesses.
During the evening, organisers outlined the vision for the association, its proposed priorities and early projects, and how businesses can play a role in shaping its direction. Attendees also had the opportunity to network, share ideas and explore how a collective voice could help influence decision-making, attract investment and support the future development of Boston’s town centre.
Speakers at the launch included James Gleeson from Wilcox and Carter, Stuart Oliver from Urban Foresight, Cllr Mike Gilbert, Deputy Leader of Boston Borough Council, and Katrina Pierce from the Lincolnshire Federation of Small Businesses.
James Gleeson from Wilcox and Carter welcomes delegates to the White Hart Hotel for the launch of the Boston Town Centre Business Association.
Stuart Oliver, Director of Urban Foresight explains to delegates the mission of the Business Association
Councillor Mike Gilbert, Deputy Leader of Boston Borough Council expresses how important it is for local businesses to have their voice heard through the formation of the new business association.
Katrina Pierce, Regional Business and Stakeholder Manager for Federation of Small Businesses explains the benefits of a business association
