Our Free Little Library is calling for some love! Through this 24-hour book exchange box, we aim to inspire readers and expand book access – but our Little Free Library is running low on books! If you have some books gathering dust on your shelves, drop them off at the Free Little Library. This book-sharing
We are pleased to announce that our friends over at Sustainable Ventures are here to help businesses and enterprises in Lambeth! The next round of the Lambeth Net Zero Innovation Challenge is starting now. In the Challenge, established businesses are matched with cutting-edge cleantech innovators who develop bespoke solutions to support sustainability objectives. Running for
We are super excited to welcome Roti King’s legendary roti canai to Waterloo! Originally a street food concept and renowned for its Malaysian cuisine, Roti King has gained incredible popularity and is set to open its third London restaurant on Lower Marsh. The tradition of crafting fresh roti daily continues, showcasing the process in the
Let’s give a warm welcome to Wilma – the latest addition to WeAreWaterloo’s Cleaning and Greening Team, driven by José alongside sidekick Wally. Dressed in vibrant pink and orange, these vehicles are not just eye-catching; they’re transforming Waterloo’s streets. Wilma and Wally are on a mission to enhance Waterloo’s environment. Imagine a superhero duo, but instead of
Our urban gardeners look after our five main green spaces, various pocket parks, nine parklets and numerous planters. This contributes to the beautification of the public realm, improves air quality and biodiversity and mitigates against flood risks. We also regularly involve the local community in our greening efforts through our voluntary weekly gardening club, our
In Waterloo, our security patrol extend far beyond crime prevention. Last week, an incident highlighted the dedication and compassion of the patrol team as they came to the aid of an elderly woman in a moment of distress. The 84-year-old woman unfortunately collapsed while crossing the road near Waterloo station. Swift to respond, our patrol
Jingle all the way to Waterloo for a December filled with festive events – sip, shop and savour the season with this festive lineup! Wander through a winter wonderland with Miracle on Leake Street, indulge in 2-for-1 cocktails at The Glitch’s ‘Daddy Claus’ Party and enjoy an afternoon of wholesome activities at Oasis Farm, where
Mark your calendars for Thursday 7 December for Christmas festivities in Waterloo! Waterloo is gearing up for a double dose of festive cheer with two exciting events – ‘Together at Christmas on Lower Marsh’ and ‘Miracle on Leake Street’. Organised by WeAreWaterloo in partnership with South Bank BID, visitors can expect a unique blend of
EmploySE1, operated by WeAreWaterloo, Team London Bridge, and Better Bankside, was a free and efficient service that provided recruitment support to the BID’s members, allowing them to easily recruit local individuals. The three BIDs have partnered with PRD, an independent consultancy located in Bankside, to identify current business challenges and determine how BIDs can provide
We’re thrilled to announce that the vote for Britain’s Favourite Market is now open, and we need your support to make Lower Marsh Market a winner. With a rich heritage dating back to the 1800s, it has deep roots in London’s history, and though it has scaled down in size over the years, it continues to
Throughout the year WeAreWaterloo have been working hard to ensure our organisation, as well as the local businesses and community are engaged in sustainable efforts to make our area less polluted and greener. We have been driving forward progress on our Climate Action Plan which can be found here. We encourage local businesses to join us for
November is just around the corner, and in Waterloo, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Discover the events lined up for you this month. Don’t forget to check our events calendar to stay in the loop! GuyMart Showing at Waterloo East Theatre this November, GuyMart imagines gay hookup apps as a supermarket, where men are
Lambeth Council is conducting a Delivery and Servicing Study to better engage with and understand local businesses, support changes in the Waterloo area and guide the development of new strategies and proposals for local streets. Steer is the appointed transport consultant involved in the study, and has conducted short questionnaire surveys throughout October with many
ReLondon offers practical, one-to-one support and consultancy to small businesses helping them grow and save costs based upon circular principles. An upcoming workshop on the idea of a circular economy is available for businesses that fall under food & drink, retail , hair & beauty as well as other high street businesses such as dry
Here’s your reminder that this year, WeAreWaterloo is teaming up with our wonderful neighbours at South Bank BID for our annual ‘Together at Christmas‘ campaign. It’s a special initiative that brings the community together to make the holiday season brighter for those in need. Here’s how your business can get involved: Donations: We’re calling on
WeAreWaterloo – in partnership with South Bank BID – is set to transform the graffiti haven that is Leake Street Arches into Miracle on Leake Street – a Christmas event like no other. Miracle on Leake Street, London’s quirkiest Christmas celebration is back for yet another year of festive fun. Set in the UK’s longest
As the academic year kicks off, university campuses come alive with the buzz of freshers’ week. London South Bank University (LSBU) is no exception, particularly with Hannah (who is currently on a placement year with the BID as part of her degree at LSBU) and Zan there to represent WeAreWaterloo and showcase STAR Card, encouraging students
Celebrate the Festive Season with this Round-Up of Christmas Dinners in Waterloo Walking in a Waterloo Wonderland… The Christmas Party Edit! Whether you’re looking for a chic, contemporary setting, a cosy British pub atmosphere, or an all-inclusive party package, Waterloo has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the best places to go for
Stay in the loop by exploring the upcoming events Waterloo has in store this October. To stay updated , be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar! Waterloo Climate Action Group This event brings people together from across the community to discuss local sustainability initiatives and ways to get involved with them. From
WeAreWaterloo are pleased to announce that we have been accepted onto the High Streets Data Service Incubator Programme. In collaboration with the Greater London Authority, this project will aim to tap into the London Datastore and evaluate what drives visitors to businesses within our popular destination of Waterloo. This will enable us as your Business
We are delighted to announce for the first time WeAreWaterloo are partnering with our lovely neighbors over at South Bank BID for our annual Together at Christmas campaign. We are looking for Waterloo and South Bank businesses to support our campaign in which gifts are donated, wrapped and distributed to a variety of fantastic local
Acting Co-Chief Executives, Harrie and Alex, headed off to sunny Strasbourg last week to present on why BIDs are uniquely placed to expediently shape Public Realm initiatives on behalf of their communities, particularly within the urban greening landscape. Alongside delegates from Milan, San Francisco and Athens, Harrie and Alex discussed how the Placemaking Strategy for the
Lambeth Council are sharing plans to make improvements to Waterloo’s streets, encouraging people to walk, cycle, and wheel around Waterloo. The main Commonplace engagement site is available here. These plans aim to boost health and well-being, as well as helping our environment – these street improvements align with Lambeth’s Climate Action Plan, and our own Climate Action Plan and our joint Net
We have some exciting news to share with you – Lambeth Council is on a mission to make our community a better place for everyone by becoming a Living Wage Place. The Living Wage is an hourly wage rate that reflects actual living costs – it’s all about ensuring people get paid fairly for their
WeAreWaterloo Business Improvement District (BID) has invested over £30,000 into the renovation of 10 shopfronts located throughout the Waterloo area. After unveiling the Waterloo Placemaking Strategy last year, WeAreWaterloo has been on a mission to brighten up the district’s shopping avenues and encourage the exploration of its diverse local business community. In August of that
From bustling streets to hidden corners, there’s something to be found for everyone in Waterloo! Join us in exploring the upcoming events waiting for you this September. To stay updated on local events, be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar! Lower Marsh Lates: Grease Don’t miss the FINAL Lower Marsh Lates event
Are you a local business in the Waterloo area? We need your insight! Lambeth Council, in collaboration with WeAreWaterloo, is conducting a Delivery and Servicing Study to better engage with and understand local businesses, support positive changes in the Waterloo area, and guide the development of new strategies and proposals for local streets. To make
We are excited to share some upcoming staff changes with you, including some new faces you can expect to see around the BID area. At the end of August, we will bid a temporary farewell to our Chief Exec, Natalie Raben, as she prepares for an exciting personal milestone. Natalie is expecting her second daughter
In order to enhance the safety and security of the Waterloo district, FGH Security has joined forces with the WeAreWaterloo Business Improvement District (BID) to introduce new Security Officers. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring a secure environment for residents, businesses, and visitors of Waterloo. The selection of FGH Security for the role
Are you ready to take on a role that will shape the future of our planet? If you’re passionate about mitigating climate change and delivering a sustainable future, South Bank Employers’ Group (SBEG) + partners have an exciting opportunity for you! WeAreWaterloo stands supportive of this fantastic opportunity to improve our environment. Net Zero Programme
Calling Waterloo residents and business owners! Exciting plans from Lambeth Council are set to transform our community for the better. Plans are in progress to establish a series of permanent traffic restrictions and street improvements in Waterloo. These plans are set to support local businesses and create a more vibrant environment for all. During the
Views from the ‘Loo Season 3 Ep 1: LSBU – Dr Charles Graham and Hannah Saroli The wait is finally over as WeAreWaterloo brings back its highly anticipated podcast, Views from the ‘Loo on Morley Radio. The series comes back with a bang by featuring an interview between the BID’s newest recruit, Digital Marketing and
The Waterloo Placemaking Strategy identified five key themes for potential interventions that could help celebrate and reinforce the area’s unique character. Responding to various challenges highlighted by both residents and workers, these themes of Identity, Activation, Public Realm, Connectivity and Brand are all viewed as central to the strategy’s delivery. This month’s Placemaking Spotlight combines
We are excited to announce that WeAreWaterloo’s Chief Executive, Natalie Raben, published a research paper in the Journal of Place Management and Development. Analysing the response of Business Improvement Districts to the pandemic, Natalie and her co-writer Nikos Ntounis discuss how BIDs shifted their operations when faced with COVID-19 to become integral facilitators of place management initiatives in their local
WeAreWaterloo is partnering with Licensing SAVI on its Security and Vulnerability Initiative. Licensing SAVI is a confidential self-assessment tool designed to help the owners and operators of licensed premises provide a safer and more secure environment for their managers, staff, customers and local communities. It does this by providing personalised advice and recommendations to help
As we transition into the vibrant month of August, we are thrilled to present you with the latest updates and news in Waterloo. From hilarious comedy nights to unmissable brunches, this month is packed full of unforgettable events. For more information on What’s On in the local area – keep an eye on our events
We are thrilled to announce that WeAreWaterloo has been awarded the Green Flag Award for the year 2023/24. This recognition serves as a testament to our community’s dedication to greening initiatives, including the outstanding efforts of the Waterloo Gardening Club, Edible Marsh and the Climate Action Group. Let’s delve into the significance of this award
Recent weeks have seen the announcement of a number of changes to the WeAreWaterloo leadership team. At the June board meeting the Chair of the WeAreWaterloo Board, Michael Johnson, announced his intention to stand down from his position. Michael has spent six fantastic years as our Board Chair, through our 2021 re-ballot, the COVID pandemic
At WeAreWaterloo, we believe in keeping our local businesses informed and empowered. In this article, we provide a high-level summary of the key points from the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, known as Martyn’s Law, which was published in May 2023. This summary aims to help Waterloo businesses understand the implications and requirements of the
With the weather getting warmer, why not swap the sticky tube for a sunny cycle? For those wanting to get back on the bike or for anyone that cycles in the Waterloo area, this summer we are hosting FREE lunchtime bike maintenance sessions on Lower Marsh. Hosted by a qualified Dr. Bike mechanic, these pop-up
One overarching theme of Waterloo’s Placemaking Strategy is its emphasis on the importance of data-based decision-making in shaping Waterloo’s future. Another key finding was that, to truly activate the area and unleash its potential, the issue of vacant retail units would have to be addressed. That’s why, we are excited to announce two new key
As the summer heats up, we are delighted to bring you the latest updates and exciting news. July is set to be a month like no other in Waterloo, so join us as we dive into what’s on! For more information on What’s On in the local area – keep an eye on our events
It was great to see so many people at our recent WeAreWaterloo events! From the London Festival of Architecture to our Pride & Prejudice panel discussion, these events showed that Waterloo is home to a huge number of passionate progressive voices eager to share their vision with the world. Below is a look back at
Do you want FREE expert advice to set your business on a path towards a more sustainable future? We’ve partnered with cost and carbon reduction specialists Beyond Procurement to offer five Waterloo BID Members 1 year of FREE climate consultancy. Through their consultancy programme ZERO, Beyond Procurement will help set your business on a path
Lambeth Council has recently launched a Commonplace website for Waterloo workers, residents and visitors to have their say about a range of projects taking place in and around the Waterloo area. Recent consultations have included: The Cut and Greet Street Traffic Restrictions Webber Street Healthy Street Improvements Ufford Street Healthy Street Improvements The Cut Parklets
Continuing the momentum of our recent Future Neighbourhoods 2030: Net-Zero Strategy launch, we are excited to introduce a selection of new climate action projects. These three new initiatives aim to promote sustainability in the Waterloo area by encouraging the local community to get involved. Join our Climate Action Group To celebrate London Climate Action
It’s finally here! In a move to enhance community engagement and promote the vibrant spirit of Waterloo, we are excited to announce the highly anticipated relaunch of our website, WeAreWaterloo.co.uk. This new digital platform aims to allow workers, residents, and visitors to connect with the community and stay informed about the latest events and updates
Avoiding discrimination and the perception of discrimination is crucial during the recruitment process to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all candidates. In this article, Jo Cullen from Edwards Durthie Shamash Solicitors provides a comprehensive checklist of do’s and don’ts for employers to follow in order to minimize the risk of discrimination. By implementing these,
Hello Summer 2023! As we transition into the vibrant month of June, we are thrilled to bring you an exciting line-up of events and happenings in Waterloo. Create lasting memories this month with these unforgettable events to fuel your summer. Stay tuned! Waterloo – station; destination; shared aspiration. This event, taking place during London Festival
Investment in a greener, fairer neighbourhood will be delivered through direct economic investment, community initiatives, and supportive policy frameworks. Lambeth Council, SoWN (South Bank & Waterloo Neighbours), South Bank & Waterloo Partnership, South Bank BID, and WeAreWaterloo BID launched a Strategy and Action Plan entitled Net Zero for Waterloo and South Bank: Building a Greener
This year, Love Your Local Market invited residents and visitors to celebrate the vibrant spirit and markets and the impact they have on their local area. Love Your Local Market fortnight is celebrated yearly, running from 12-27 May, and has been embraced by over 24 countries worldwide. This campaign highlights markets at the heart of
The countdown is on! Secure your tickets to unmissable events taking place in Waterloo this May. From classical music to classic musicals, this month is jam-packed with events to kick off summer 2023 with a bang. Are you ready? Lunchtime Concert: Harpsichord Recital Save the date! On Tuesday 2 May, the wonderful students of Morley
References – what are the obligations of an employer to provide a reference and what are the risks if a reference is given? Providing a reference for an employee who is leaving to start a new role can sometimes be difficult, particularly where there have been issues with their conduct or performance. Does an employer
NOW SHOWING… outdoor screenings! Waterloo, are you ready? Lower Marsh Lates is back bigger than ever and you’re invited! Your summer days are set to be sizzling, but what about your evening plans? Join us from 5:30-8:30pm on the last Thursday of every month between May to September for a series of unmissable FREE outdoor
If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that unforeseen crises can have dramatic impacts on your business. That’s why we’ve redeveloped our Business Continuity Plan Template to help all our member businesses prepare for the future. This will help ensure you’ll know what to do in the event of an acute, unforeseen
To help businesses address both the cost of living and climate crises, WeAreWaterloo has partnered with industry experts Beyond Procurement to bring a suite of free guidance and support to our member businesses. The programme includes a FREE procurement audit and cost-saving opportunity report in which your expenditure in areas such as energy, water, telecoms
Jo from Edwards Duthie Shamash Solicitors is once again sharing her words of wisdom with the Waterloo business community. This time she’s focusing on the cost of living and how businesses can reward their staff despite the tightened budgets. With many businesses still recovering from the effects of the covid pandemic we are now in
At WeAreWaterloo, the safety and security of everyone who lives, works or visits the Waterloo area is our number one priority. Increasingly, methods for ensuring this safety must be built upon a strong foundation of incident reporting and data analysis. Alongside our local security partners, we are always looking for ways to improve these reporting
One of the key objectives of the Waterloo Placemaking Strategy was to better understand Waterloo’s unique area identity. Basically, what makes Waterloo, Waterloo? This involved analysing data on resident demographics, business mix and visitor perceptions to hone in on distinctive characteristics that set our neighbourhood apart from the rest of London. One such characteristic was
After months of searching for the perfect candidate, we are pleased to introduce WeAreWaterloo’s newest staff member, Business Security Manager, Karol Doherty. Karol has an impressive CV which includes 5 years in the armed forces, security work at two other BIDs (Paddington and the New West End Company) and even managing the security of Westminster
At WeAreWaterloo, we’re always looking for new ways to promote Waterloo’s unique selection of restaurants, bars and cultural institutions. As the world’s fastest-growing social media company, TikTok has become an essential part of the BID’s destination marketing strategy. Having only launched this summer, WeAreWaterloo’s TikTok videos have already been viewed over 75,000 times. It’s hoped
The following Placemaking Spotlight is taken directly from our recently published Placemaking Strategy. This is the first of a series of spotlights which will focus on our plans for the various subdistricts of Waterloo. They provide readers with an introductory overview of the area, alongside any progress we have made implementing the strategy. Introduction: The
At the start of 2022, WeAreWaterloo Business Improvement District commissioned architecture and design firm Allies & Morrison to create a Waterloo Placemaking Strategy. After months of research and engagement conducted by A&M that included workshops, surveys, one on one interviews and more, we are delighted to announce that the strategy is now complete and can
To mark the end of London Climate Action Week, WeAreWaterloo has outlined its strategy for achieving the Mayor of London’s sustainability goals in its newly published Climate Action Plan. The document provides readers with a brief overview of the main climate challenges facing Waterloo before outlining the organisation’s plan of action to become a Net
As part of our ‘With Waterloo’ initiative, we’re pleased to say that the Waterloo Action Centre has recently installed one of our “tap-to-donate” window displays. This means anyone ranging from first-time passers-by to WAC regulars can easily donate and support this vital Waterloo institution. With the cost of living rising, the services provided by charities such
We are very pleased to announce WeAreWaterloo has been awarded a £65,000 grant to de-pave part of Hercules Road in order to increase the amount of green space in the Waterloo area. The project will repurpose 300m2 of former road space into fertile land for growing trees, fruits, vegetables and herbs as well as incorporating a
WeAreWaterloo BID is delighted to announce the strong backing of the Waterloo business community, who have overwhelmingly voted YES to continue the BID for another five years. An impressive 92% of votes cast were in favour of WeAreWaterloo, representing 96% of the aggregate RV and an incredible 43% turnout. We would like to thank you