Halifax traders vote to remain a BID town

BIDs are business-led and business-funded partnerships that deliver additional services and projects within a defined area, and are funded through a levy paid for by businesses.

This latest renewal gives Halifax BID the go-ahead to continue the scheme for another five-year term.

It means the levy paid for by businesses will generate a collective £2.4million to be spent on improving the area throughout that term.

The result follows several months of planning, interviews, surveys and a ballot, in which businesses voted on the proposals.

A total of 84.95 per cent of votes were in favour of the BID Renewal Ballot by total number of businesses, and 93.72 per cent of votes were in favour of the BID by rateable value.

As a result of the yes vote, the renewal of Halifax BID will commence on April 1, and businesses with a rateable value of £12,001 or above will pay a levy based on their rateable value.

For a BID renewal ballot to be successful, more than 50 per cent of voting businesses must vote in favour and those businesses must also represent more than 50 per cent of the aggregate rateable value of votes cast.

The BID’s new five-year business plan will focus on three objectives: promoting and animating Halifax by positioning the BID as the lead organisation in the promotion and profiling of Halifax as an animated destination; supporting and representing by positioning the BID as the trusted, collective voice supporting and representing business interests and influencing all key partners; and improving and investing by working with partners to improve standards of cleanliness and safety and create a town centre where businesses can thrive and invest with confidence.

Chair of Halifax BID, Jason Gregg, said: “This is a significant moment for Halifax and a clear endorsement of the value of partnership and collaboration.

“Thank you to every business that took part in the renewal process and helped shape the future direction of the BID.

“In today’s challenging economic climate, businesses are looking for tangible support and a strong collective voice.

“The renewed BID will provide both.

“Built around the feedback received throughout the consultation period, the business plan focuses on delivering initiatives that help businesses manage current pressures, increase visibility, attract investment and ensure Halifax remains a vibrant and competitive destination for businesses, workers and visitors alike.

“The money will now be spent through the three key strategic objectives and their related activities.”