What do Warrington and Blackpool have in common? At first glance, you might not see the connection, but over the past two years, we’ve discovered they have more in common than you’d think.
Both towns are full of life, home to businesses with big ideas and driven by people working hard to make things happen. Through our work with their Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), we’ve had a chance to roll up our sleeves and play a part in it all.
In Warrington, we’ve supported the BID with a range of events that have brought the town centre to life. Warrington Mela celebrated culture and colour. Krazy Races brought a bit of madcap fun. Pride was a huge celebration of love and inclusion and Winter Wonderland gave families a reason to wrap up warm and head into town. Warrington Music Month turned the town into a stage, showcasing local talent, and at the heart of so much of this has been Time Square, a space that’s proven its worth as a hub for events and connection.
Blackpool has brought a different but equally exciting set of opportunities. At the start of this year, the GO Blackpool app was little more than an idea. We’ve played a key role in taking that idea and helping to turn it into something real. The app is now up and running, connecting locals and visitors with events, businesses and offers. It’s been brilliant to see it take off and start making a difference for the town centre.
The thing about working with BIDs is that it’s never a one-size-fits-all job. It’s about bringing together councils, local businesses, national brands, event organisers and the public. Everyone has their own priorities, and the job is finding a way to make it all work together. It’s a juggling act at times, but it’s also what makes the work so rewarding.
Looking back, there are so many highlights. Families enjoying Winter Wonderland in Warrington, a business in Blackpool reaching new customers through the GO Blackpool app, a band playing to a packed crowd during Music Month. It’s not about big, showy moments but about those smaller wins that remind you why town centres matter.
We’ve learned that the real magic happens when everyone works together, whether it’s bringing a new idea like the app to life or making sure events go off without a hitch. It’s about creating spaces and opportunities for people to connect with their towns in a way that feels meaningful.
Two towns. One big job. And plenty to be proud of over the past two years.
