The Westside Business Improvement District has announced a new chapter in its leadership, appointing Martin Barrett as Chair and Naomi Aly as Vice Chair.
Representing one of Birmingham’s most dynamic and rapidly developing districts, Westside BID plays a key role in shaping an area renowned for its blend of business, hospitality, culture, and leisure. Spanning destinations such as Broadway Plaza, Broad Street, Brindleyplace, Centenary Square and the district’s canalside attractions and entertainment venues, Westside continues to stand at the heart of the city’s activity and appeal.
The appointments come at a pivotal time for Westside, following the BID’s successful ballot and as the organisation continues to focus on key priorities including Culture and Vibrancy, Clean and Green, Safe and Secure Network and Voice, and Engaged and Connected.
Alongside the new Chair and Vice Chair appointments, Westside BID has also welcomed several new Directors to its board, including Chris Catford, Andrew Hawkins, Simran Sangha, Jamie Sherwood, Alex Elder and Rachael Thomas. Their appointments further strengthen the BID’s leadership team as it continues to support businesses and drive investment across the district.
Martin Barrett takes on the role of Chair with a reputation for strategic leadership and a strong understanding of the city. In his new position, Barrett is expected to oversee the BID’s long-term vision, supporting initiatives aimed at safety strategies, public realm improvements, and enhanced engagement with local stakeholders.
Speaking about the appointment, Barrett said the BID has an important role to play in shaping the future of the district:
“I’m honoured to be joining Westside as Chair at such an exciting time for the organisation. Westside has built a strong reputation for its commitment to the community and its ambition for the future.
I look forward to working alongside Wardens, The Board, Bid office team, and Stakeholders to build on that success and help drive the next phase of growth and impact.”
Joining him in the leadership team is Naomi Aly, who has been appointed Vice Chair, and was previously supporting the Bid as a director. Aly is widely regarded as a collaborative and forward-thinking figure, bringing experience in stakeholder engagement and business advocacy.
As Vice Chair, Aly is expected to work closely alongside Barrett in advancing the BID’s strategic priorities, while also helping amplify the voices of local businesses and organisations operating within the district.
In a statement following her appointment, Aly reflected on Westside’s strong community focus and said she looked forward to supporting the organisation’s continued growth and future ambitions.
“I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Vice Chair at Westside at such an exciting time for the organisation. Having previously served as a Director, I’ve seen first-hand the strength of Westside’s commitment to the community and its ambitions for the future. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Martin, the board, leadership team, and stakeholders to build on that success and support the organisation’s continued growth and impact.”
Under Barrett and Aly’s leadership, Westside will continue to advance the BID’s key priorities: boosting culture and vibrancy across the district, creating a cleaner and greener environment, strengthening its voice and network for local businesses, and building a more engaged, connected community in Birmingham.
The appointments reflect Westside BID’s confidence in the future of both the district and Birmingham as a whole, as the organisation continues to build momentum behind its vision for a vibrant, connected, and thriving destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
