Wilmslow BID Manager

Lisa Russett has been in post as Business Improvement District (BID) Manager for Wilmslow Town Centre since November 2022. The Wilmslow Town Centre BID is now in the fourth year of its five-year term.

Lisa was appointed following an external recruitment and interview process with Groundwork and Wilmslow town centre businesses.

Prior to her appointment, Lisa managed her own high street business in Northwich for 12 years and has worked for Groundwork since 2021. During her time at Groundwork, Lisa worked on the Wilmslow Town Council–funded project supporting local businesses post-Covid and contributed to the development of the Wilmslow Town Centre BID. She has also gained valuable experience supporting BID projects across England.

During her tenure as BID Manager, Lisa, with the help of the BID team, has led the delivery of an ambitious and wide-ranging programme that has helped Wilmslow continue to stand out as a vibrant, welcoming and evolving town centre, despite ongoing national challenges facing high streets. Year three of the BID focused on building momentum, strengthening partnerships and listening closely to businesses to deliver a “Way Better Experience” for residents, visitors and the business community.

Over the past year, the BID has delivered a strong calendar of events and initiatives designed to increase footfall and support local businesses. These have included large-scale events such as Winter Wonderland, Comic Con, Wilmslow Live and Street Fest, alongside low-cost, high-impact initiatives including Easter and Halloween trails. Investment has also been made in the look and feel of the town centre, with enhancements such as floral displays, bunting and Christmas lighting.

Alongside events and place-making, Lisa and the Groundwork BID team has worked closely with Wilmslow Town Council, Cheshire East and local partners to support longer-term public realm improvements, safety initiatives and intelligence sharing. The introduction of a new marketing agency has significantly increased Wilmslow’s digital reach, engagement and national media profile, while continuing to champion the town’s independent character.

Supporting levy-paying businesses remains central to the BID’s work, with a focus on free training opportunities, improved communication, stronger partnerships and a more representative BID Board to ensure clear value for investment.

Lisa remains a Groundwork employee and, in her role as BID Manager, works full time leading the delivery of the Wilmslow Town Centre BID as it moves into year four of the current term.