Three new board directors have pledged to take the lead in driving positive change for the business community in Strabane as part of the ongoing BID scheme in the town.

The directors were formally announced today, and will now work together to identify and deliver solutions that will further enhance the area and improve the trading environment. The directors are all well-known professionals in the Strabane business community and include: Kieran Kennedy, Managing Director, O’Neills International Sportswear; Majella McDermott, Director, Café Milano; Debbie Deans, Business Development Manager, Strabane Training Services.

They will be tasked with taking forward the aims and objectives set out in the recently published Mid-Term Review of the scheme and ensuring it continues to deliver on behalf of the Strabane BID membership. The BID scheme has been in place since 2016 and will run until 2021.

Welcoming the new directors, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Michaela Boyle said: “I am delighted to welcome the new board members as they take up their new role. It’s real endorsement of the scheme and it shows the commitment of local businesses to working collectively to improve trading conditions and boost the local economy to the benefit of everyone.

“As a native of the town I’m pleased to see the focus on Strabane grow and the many plans that are now in the pipeline in terms of enhancing capital infrastructure, and delivering better programmes and services that will support and promote the transformation of the town.”

Head of Business with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Kevin O’Connor, said he was confident the new board directors would bring a wealth of expertise to the BID scheme.

“The Strabane BID focuses on working together to identify priorities, design and fund solutions to enhance the area and increase trade,” she explained.

“We are committed to delivering effective and targeted business support in Strabane. Our Business Plan is focused on the continuous growth of the local economy, and the new directors will strengthen and diversify the board bringing a wealth of new skills and experience to assist businesses in Strabane.”

The Strabane Business Improvement District aims to deliver a range of projects and services to boost the local economy through increasing the footfall of shoppers and visitors, benefit all business levy payers and improve the physical environment for all those who visit, live and work in the town. Local businesses take a cohesive approach to raising funds to improve their town and trading environment. Benefits of becoming a member include free participation in the In Strabane Gift Card, marketing and social media campaigns, free business mentoring and networking opportunities.

You can find out more about the Strabane BID at http://instrabane.org/business/