New App service lands in Stratford District

Stratford's residents and visitors can now access local community information, offers, news and what's on in the district through one button on their mobile phones.

The Big Local App and its mascot, BLA the friendly alien, have landed in Stratford with the aim of giving residents their very own bespoke app. It is available on smart phones and iphones and is completely free to download.

Local businesswoman Barbara Cadd, who has introduced the Big Local App said: “The trend for accessing information on a mobile phone has grown hugely which isn't surprising as 92% of adults now own a mobile device. With 84% of users searching for local information on their phones and one in five making a purchase, I decided that having an app for Stratford would benefit businesses, tourists and local folks alike."

The Stratford Big Local App has been created with Apple and Google Play so it is available on most phones and provides council information, cinema listings, a what's on guide and importantly, up-to-the-minute offers from local businesses and attractions.  

“Everyone is going through tough economic times so it's essential to help local businesses promote themselves and give Stratford people incentives to shop, eat and enjoy entertainment in our towns and villages rather than going elsewhere," said Barbara.

“The Big Local App is an easy and fun way to access information and incentives that are all about the local area," Barbara continued.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is using the app as an important communications tool. The Chairman of the Council Cllr Rev Neville Beamer said: “For the District Council this a great and cost-effective way to share information with residents from bin collection times to leisure centre openings and elections. Not everyone has access to a computer so the app is a different and convenient way to get information and also link into our website."

Local businesses such as estate agents, restaurants and shops have signed up to the Big Local App along with tourist information, attractions, Stratford College and the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. Gabrielle Mallard from Sheldon Bosley said: “We immediately saw the benefit of promoting our business and properties on a mobile app. It's very accessible and can be updated instantly so we are delighted to be on board." Stratford beauty salon owner Kizzy Galvin of Harmony Health and Beauty added: “It's vital that local businesses keep up with the latest trends and having a presence on an app just for Stratford will keep me in front of existing customers and hopefully attract new clients."

The Big Local App can be downloaded from the app store, Google Play or by going direct to the website at www.stratford.biglocalapp.com.