Harley Street’s BID to boost business

The establishment of the Harley Street Business Improvement District (BID) marks a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the infrastructure, services and community engagement within Harley Street – one of the world’s most renowned medical districts. Its director Nicki Palmer reveals more.

By addressing the evolving needs of the area, the Harley Street Business Improvement District endeavours to uphold and augment Harley Street’s global reputation as a premier destination for medical excellence, while fostering collaborative efforts among local businesses and stakeholders.

The recent Arab Health Exhib­ition served as an exceptional platform to showcase the collective efforts of the Harley Street BID and highlight the unparalleled healthcare expertise available within our district. 

Iconic street

As one of London’s most iconic streets and a renowned medical hub, Harley Street boasts a legacy dating back to the 1800s. 

Today, with over 3,000 medical professionals and 200 clinics offering expertise across every conceivable medical specialty, Harley Street stands as Europe’s largest concentration of medical expertise.

Diversity lies at the heart of our district’s success. From state-of-the-art cancer facilities offering access to the latest diagnostics to renowned plastic surgery practices offering cutting-edge treatments, our district epitomises the fusion of modern advancements with a rich historical heritage.

It is this unique blend that continues to attract patients seeking quality and excellence from all corners of the globe.

The Harley Street BID is a not-for-profit organisation committed to provide improvements, building on the area’s legacy as a pioneering and world-leading centre of medical excellence. 

Tailored activities

With a membership comprising businesses, landowners, medical organisations and charities, we are dedicated to delivering tailored activities that support business growth and enhance our area’s unique opportunities and its global standing. 

We serve as a collective voice for our exceptional medical community, as well as the other businesses within the renowned Harley Street district. 

Together, we are dedicated to improving the entire area, transforming it into a unique destination for all. 

We are delighted to be part of the expansive network of 370 BIDs throughout the UK. These networks provide invaluable platforms where local businesses and partners can come together in collaboration. 

In Westminster alone, there are 18 BIDs and London boasts over 70. BIDs have proven to be effective avenues for fostering collaboration and investment, while also serving as a conduit for businesses to showcase and enhance their areas.

Collaborating closely with the Howard de Walden Estate – long-term landlord of the Harley Street Medical Area – and other stake­holders, we are committed to supporting healthcare providers and businesses alike.

Global destination

We aim to ensure Harley Street remains a global destination of choice for medical treatment, while working with the medical and wider business community to develop an exciting vision for its future. 

We are aligned with four key themes: 

1. Public realm and wayfinding;
2. National and international marketing;
3. Safety and business resilience; 
4. Business sustainability and connectivity 

Our mission is to comprehensively address the diverse needs and opportunities within the vibrant Harley Street district. Through these dynamic initiatives, our overarching goal is to cultivate a thriving and sustainable business environment that benefits both our esteemed medical institutions and the broader community.

For instance, our safety and business resilience efforts are intricately woven with the operations of the area’s renowned hospitals, ensuring their safety and security measures are robust. 

From providing reassurance to staff working during unsociable hours to offering tailored safety and training sessions for healthcare businesses, our recent implementation of a lone working scheme has been extremely well received by businesses in the area. 

Meanwhile, our public realm theme is dedicated to enhancing the area’s infrastructure and accessibility through a wide range of initiatives, such as augmenting public access, enhancing signage and creating additional seating options. 

Seamless experience

This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that visitors have a seamless and exceptional experience when they visit the area for their healthcare needs.

Moreover, we are dedicated to supporting the healthcare sector by facilitating networking opportunities and by promoting the district’s excellence through social media and marketing campaigns. 

By showcasing the area as a vibrant destination, we aim to amplify awareness of the excellent retail, leisure and amenities available, catering not only to patients but also to their families and visitors. 

We are eager to engage further with medical businesses in the area to understand their challenges and pain points – and where we can help. 

Whether it is navigating visa issues, improving access or enhancing promotional efforts, we are committed to providing support and finding collaborative solutions. 

As we continue to collaborate with local authorities, ministers and stakeholders to drive continuous improvements, we warmly invite medical professionals in Harley Street to actively participate in shaping the future of our esteemed medical district.

Our aim is to enhance the excellent reputation that has made Harley Street one of London’s most iconic streets and, together, ensure it remains the destination of choice for patients from all over the globe.

To get in touch with the Harley Street Business Improve­ment District (BID), there are various official and effective channels. 

The primary source of information is the Harley Street BID’s website, where one can find comprehensive details about ongoing initiatives, upcoming events and staff contact information. 

Subscribing to the BID’s newsletter is another excellent way to stay informed about all things related to Harley Street, ensuring you receive regular updates directly to your inbox. 

Additionally, the BID maintains active social media presence on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, providing yet another avenue for engagement and communication. 

Whether seeking information about events, resources or specific inquiries, leveraging these channels ensures timely and reliable access to the Harley Street BID’s support and services. 

Alternatively you can email contact@harleystreetbid.com.

• See ‘Harley Street ramps up its marketing’