InExeter wins ‘Best Business Improvement District’ at Britain in Bloom Awards

Exeter’s Business Improvement District (BID), InExeter, has achieved national recognition, securing the title of ‘Best Business Improvement District’ at the prestigious Britain in Bloom Awards. This accomplishment comes on the heels of a gold award at the South West in Bloom competition earlier this month, showcasing InExeter’s transformative efforts in enhancing the city’s environment.

The Britain in Bloom Awards, organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), is one of the UK’s leading environmental competitions, celebrating efforts to rejuvenate local spaces through creative planting, conservation projects, and tackling urban issues like litter and vandalism. This recognition places InExeter among the top contributors to sustainable urban beautification and community engagement.

Mattie Richardson, Projects Manager at InExeter, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive national acclaim for our efforts. Each year, we build on our knowledge and expertise to deliver impactful planting. Our love for the city drives all our efforts to create a safer, cleaner, and greener environment - a vibrant community where everyone can thrive.”

InExeter’s contributions to Exeter’s landscape include funding and managing hanging baskets, planters, public artworks, and lighting installations. The BID also maintains a dedicated cleansing team to keep city streets welcoming and pristine. During the Britain in Bloom judging tour, several city landmarks and businesses contributed to the city’s display of greenery and community pride, including Exeter Cathedral, Exeter Phoenix, Guildhall Shopping Centre, Princesshay Shopping Centre, and St Sidwell’s Point.

Exeter’s history of green spaces and conservation efforts is exemplified by Northernhay Gardens, maintained by Exeter City Council’s Parks and Green Spaces Team, which has been part of Exeter’s landscape since its founding in 1612 as England’s first public open space. Northernhay’s rich history and lush gardens were a highlight of the judging route, reflecting Exeter’s longstanding commitment to preserving natural spaces.

Nicola Wheeler, CEO of InExeter, commented: “This accolade is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when businesses unite for a common purpose. Over the past decade, InExeter has led efforts to improve the city’s appeal through environmental investments. As we approach the ballot for our third term, we take pride in our journey and look forward to building on this collective success.”

InExeter’s win demonstrates the power of collaborative community efforts to enhance urban environments, setting a benchmark for city BIDs across the country.