Central District Alliance Business Improvement District

Central District Alliance

The Business Improvement District for Holborn, Clerkenwell, Farringdon, Bloomsbury and St Giles.

We are committed to supporting our business community, by driving sustainable socio-economic growth across our central London neighbourhoods, ensuring they remain vibrant, welcoming and prosperous. As the collective voice of over 400 businesses, we champion our district as a leading destination for work, leisure and culture.

 

About us

Discover Central District Alliance – the vibrant hub where businesses flourish. Spanning heritage to housing, law to lifestyle, and gastronomy to cutting-edge technology, our diverse and innovative business community is leading the way and we are here to support and champion their growth.

Our priority is to create a clean, green, safe and dynamic environment for businesses, residents and visitors alike. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, we enhance the district’s appeal while supporting the needs and ambitions of our members.

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Building tomorrow together

CDA was successful in its 2025 ballots and will continue to serve the areas of Holborn, Bloomsbury, St Giles, Clerkenwell & Farringdon for a further five years. In Camden 93% of businesses voted ‘yes’ (97% by RV), whilst Islington saw a 96% ‘yes’ vote (90% by RV).

The positive result of the ballots and support from our businesses means we can proceed with delivering on the commitments made in our 2025-2030 Business Plan, including;

  • Environmental Services & Community Safety: Expanding patrols and inclusive safety initiatives. Keeping our areas clean and vibrant.
  • ESG initiatives: Promoting environmental, social and governance practices for a sustainable and responsible district.
  • Placemaking: Creating greener, more welcoming spaces and better walking routes.
  • Events and Engagement: Supporting cultural, social, and networking opportunities.
  • Advocacy & Insights: Driving investment, promoting local businesses and providing valuable data insights.
Our Vision 2025-2030

Project Areas

Environmental Services

CDA ensures clean, welcoming neighbourhoods by providing additional street cleaning, litter collection, and graffiti removal. Through partnerships with local authorities, we enhance the area’s environment, including introducing electric-assisted vehicles for eco-friendly service.

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Community Safety

Our dedicated safety patrols provide visible reassurance, addressing crime and antisocial behaviour across the district. In collaboration with the Metropolitan Police and local councils, we foster a safer environment, focusing on high-traffic commuter areas and night-time economies​.

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Placemaking

CDA transforms public spaces to promote community engagement and economic activity. Working with stakeholders, we create vibrant, multifunctional areas that reflect each neighbourhood’s unique character, with a focus on enhancing pedestrian experience and introducing green, climate-resilient infrastructure​.

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Environmental, Social & Governance

CDA integrates ESG principles across its operations, focusing on sustainability, social inclusivity, and transparent governance. By promoting responsible urban development, we support businesses in meeting their ESG commitments and fostering a more equitable and resilient community​.

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Marketing, Comms & Events

We curate year-round events to celebrate the district’s diversity, boost footfall, and support businesses. From cultural festivals to business networking, our activities enhance local visibility and create a shared sense of community and vitality​.

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Advocacy & Insights

Through data-driven insights, CDA advocates for policies that benefit the district’s economic and social development. We engage local and national stakeholders to promote sustainable growth, publishing research on key issues like footfall, economic trends, and public realm improvements​.

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News & Events

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Mental Health Awareness Week

Join us for a week of mood-boosting activities in support of Mental Health Awareness Week. It’s a chance to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and explore simple, positive ways we can all take better care of ourselves.

Mayor of Islington Visits Local Primary Schools

As part of a shared commitment to community engagement and early‑years education, the Mayor of Islington, Cllr Jackson along with Debbie Akehurst and Wayne Lewis from CDA, visited Hugh Myddelton Primary School and Winton Primary School on Monday, 27th April 2026.

Supporting the Early Years Curriculum

On Friday 27th March, CDA was proud to facilitate a memorable educational visit for 30 Year 6 pupils from Hugh Myddelton Primary School to 10 Downing Street.

Power of Women Awards 2026

On 5 March 2026, we sponsored the Dress for Success Greater London Power of Women Awards 2026.

International Women’s Day Business Breakfast

To celebrate International Women’s Day on the 5th March, we hosted a Business Breakfast at The Orangery, Tottenham Court Road, bringing together employers, healthcare professionals and community partners to explore how we can better support women’s health in the workplace.

Random Acts of Kindness Giveaway

On the 17th February, we celebrated Random Acts of Kindness by giving out small gifts across the five neighbourhoods.