Support for victims of business crime, public realm improvements and cleaner streets are three issues city centre companies want to see improved.

More than 400 businesses took part in a new piece of research by the Retail Business Improvement District (BID) as the body begins the run in to the vote on whether to extend its work by another five years.

A business improvement district is defined geographical area in which companies pay an extra levy on their rates to fund extra services and activities.

In October, companies in the city centre will vote on whether to extend Retail BID's work by another term to 2022.

More visitor maps and marketing were also highlighted as areas in which the BID should focus via the survey which claimed that 76 per cent of respondents said they considered Birmingham city centre a good place to shop.

A further 69 per cent said the same as a place to relax and socialise as well as run a business.

There is a relatively lower perception of the city centre as a place to use in the evening, with only 58 per cent saying the experience was at least good.

The BID's business plan for the next five years follows three themes aimed at making Birmingham a safe and accessible city centre, continued support for growth among businesses and developing new ways to enjoy and experience the city.

Chairman Jonathan Cheetham said: "Retail BID has been a strong voice for its members since 2007 and will continue to support, network and represent businesses in Birmingham city centre throughout our third term.

"Through this 'voice', Retail BID leveraged over £1.2 million in business support funds during our second term.

"By continuing to work as a single community, successes like this can be achieved again.

"Birmingham city centre is a powerful national anchor and regional capital for shopping, with a broad range of services and opportunities on offer.

"However, we must not become complacent, Birmingham City Council still has to find nearly £250 million of savings and from services already reduced or removed."