Would town benefit as Business Improvement District?

Non-domestic ratepayers in Welshpool could be asked to pay a levy so that the town can become a Business Improvement District (BID), it has been revealed.

The idea will be put to local businesses a week tomorrow (Monday, 21st) during the monthly meeting of the Local Business Forum at the Town Hall (6pm).

A BID is a partnership between a local authority and local businesses which is intended to “provide improvements to the public sphere within a specified geographical area”, according to official information.

Over 200 towns are already BIDS in the UK with the Government wanting to see many more created to help deliver improvements and give businesses a stronger voice in shaping their local area.

A BID can only be established and a levy charged following approval of proposals setting out what the BID will do, via a ballot of those businesses liable to pay the levy. This levy is used to develop projects which will benefit businesses in the local area.

There is no limit on what projects or services can be provided through a BID. The only requirement is that it should be something that is in addition to services provided by local authorities. Improvements may include, but are not limited to, extra safety/security, cleaning and environmental measures.

Monday’s meeting will also have an update on the one-way changes as well as the proposed Bus Station and improvements to the Railway Station and train service.

PICTURE: Eye in the Sky Drone