Meet the person tasked with helping transform Portsmouth’s city centre

Portsmouth resident Gilly Ainsley will take up the role of Portsmouth City Centre BID Manager on 19 October, bringing more than 15 years’ experience in marketing, project management, stakeholder engagement and communications. She will be responsible for delivering the BID’s business plan and working closely with businesses, Portsmouth City Council, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and other partners.

Gilly said:

“I’m incredibly proud to be taking on the role of Portsmouth City Centre BID Manager.

“Portsmouth city centre already has many fantastic strengths, from its independent businesses and national retailers to major investment and regeneration projects. The BID gives businesses a real opportunity to come together, shape priorities and deliver positive improvements that make a difference.

“My first priority will be listening to businesses, understanding their challenges and working with partners to create a city centre that is thriving, vibrant and welcoming for everyone.”

The appointment follows the successful BID ballot in March, when 93% of businesses who voted backed plans to create the city’s first BID. The new business-led organisation officially launches on 1 October and will focus on making the city centre safer, cleaner, more attractive and better promoted.

Projects planned for the first five years include security patrols, enhanced cleaning, year-round events, marketing campaigns, public realm improvements, support for businesses and initiatives to attract more visitors and investment into the city centre.

Mark Goodall, Chair of Portsmouth City Centre BID, said:

“The creation of Portsmouth’s first BID marks a significant moment for the city centre.

“Businesses told us they wanted a stronger voice and a dedicated organisation focused on delivering improvements. Gilly’s appointment is an important milestone in turning those ambitions into action. She brings a strong mix of experience, local knowledge and passion for Portsmouth, and we’re delighted to welcome her to the team.”

Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council added:

“I’d like to welcome Gilly to this important new role and wish her every success as Portsmouth City Centre BID Manager.

“Portsmouth city centre is changing, with significant investment and regeneration helping to shape its future. The BID will play an important role in ensuring businesses are at the heart of that transformation. Working alongside the council and other partners, it will help deliver practical improvements, attract more visitors and investment, and create a city centre that reflects the ambition we have for Portsmouth.”

Portsmouth City Centre BID will be funded through a levy paid by around 293 organisations, generating approximately £322,000 a year to deliver projects and services that benefit businesses and visitors alike. Portsmouth City Centre BID begins on 1 October 2026 and runs until September 2031.