A new scheme which will raise �3m to be spent in the city centre will be officially launched tomorrow, with a pledge to give Norwich a shot in the arm.

Businesses voted yes for a Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) in July and it comes into effect from tomorrow.

The creation of the district – taking in the majority of Norwich city centre – will see millions raised over the next five years through an annual one per cent levy on businesses with a rateable value of more than �15,000 within the BID area.

Of the businesses who voted, 79pc by number and 91pc by rateable value voted yes, which means the district could be created.

A board – a cross section of people from businesses and charities that have a vested interest in properly representing the interests of BID levy payers – has been set up and offices at The Forum secured for team.

Stefan Gurney, Norwich BID director, said: 'We go live from today and we already have some early quick wins.

'We're adding value to The NORWICHRISTMAS campaign, with a television advert across the Anglia region to boost its profile and get people to the city, while work has started on a smartphone app.

'We are looking forward to seeing what we can deliver for Norwich.'

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