KIDDERMINSTER has welcomed a host of new businesses as the town centre shows signs of bouncing back from the effects of the pandemic.

Kidderminster Business Improvement District (BID) is now urging people to shop local and continue to support businesses as the town recovers.

Recently, the town has seen a number of new businesses - including Geek Retreat, Burger Bros, 100% Aesthetics & Beauty Academy, The Hyde Brow & Beauty Bar and Sterling Square in the Bull Ring.

There are also other new businesses set to open in the near future, including 89th Street restaurant at the Bull Ring and TruGym at Weavers Wharf.

Kidderminster BID Manager Alex Powell said: "Research from Geolytix has shown that Kidderminster town centre recovery following the re-opening of non-essential retail has been very strong and has recovered to 70 per cent of previous levels over the last two weeks.

"It has been great to see life returning to Kidderminster, particularly on sunny days. The town has been buzzing again with people shopping and enjoying outdoor hospitality.

"We are currently working towards environmental improvements so it’s a better place for both investors and visitors to the town centre."

New plans include improving the appearance of the town with floral displays this summer in several new locations including the Bullring and alongside Riverside Walk restaurants.

Wildflowers will be planted in the Comberton Hill to town centre underpass and also floral planting will be extended into areas not usually covered including Worcester St and Oxford St.

The BID has also funded and established a partnership working with Kidderminster College art students and community group Horsefair and Proud to transform the Blackwell Street underpass into the town centre.

Alex Powell added: "We are delighted to welcome people back to Kidderminster. It is a great town with a strong sense of community and so much to offer.

"We would like to encourage people to shop local, eat local and spend local whenever they can to support the local economy."