A BUSINESS group is urging traders in Leytonstone to support its plans to continue running for another five years.

The E11 BID (Business Improvement District) was established five years ago to promote the local economy after 95 per cent of shopkeepers voted in favour of it being set up.

Under current legislation the E11 BID must now win the support of traders again in a vote if it is to continue.

Traders contribute towards the not-for-profit group's funds which then reinvests the cash, along with money from public bodies, on schemes to boost business in Leytonstone.

Company manager Gianluca Rizzo said successes so far included helping to bring in an extra £500,000 in external funding to the area, its own money-saving trade waste collection scheme and the installation of nine BID-funded CCTV cameras.

He said: "Renewing the E11 BID is an opportunity to consolidate the assets that have built over the past five years.

"Lessons have been learnt, incredible results have been achieved and a strong network has been built.

"The renewal will give the E11BID the opportunity to continue its work and give Leytonstone business community the identity and leadership it deserves".

Every business in the BID area - from the Green Man Roundabout to the newly branded ‘Leytonstone’ bridge - will be sent a ballot paper this week and be asked to return it by Monday October 29.