Councillors to discuss Weymouth BID plans (From Dorset Echo)

Councillors to discuss Weymouth BID plans

5:05pm Saturday 2nd March 2013 in News

COUNCILLORS will look at the new business plan put forward by the Weymouth BID (Business Improvement District).

Members of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s management committee will consider the plans on Tuesday ahead of a vote among businesses in May.

The BID team, who are hoping to secure a ‘yes’ vote so they can start charging a levy to improve the shopping district and surrounding area, claim the business plan has been updated following a drop in session held in the town to reflect a number of issues raised by local traders.

It now includes more support for promotional parking and encouragement for free parking initiatives, a focus on environmental changes and looks at seasonality and how it affects all areas of business.

Chair of Weymouth BID Nigel Reed said businesses within the levy payment area had been instrumental in creating the business plan.

He said: “Following our drop in session, which was held on January 31 between business owners within the levy payment area and the BID steering group, some modifications were made to the Weymouth Business BID business plan.

“The council’s role will be to agree the business plan and check that it does not conflict with any local authority policies, it will also agree that the BID should conduct the ballot in May.”

The BID steering group has also obtained input from the future business generation after meeting with 20 youngsters at Budmouth College to review the plan.

Further drop in sessions are planned on Thursday, March 14 and Thursday, April 18 at the William Henry public house for potential levy payers.

Mr Reed said: “Obtaining a ‘yes’ vote for Weymouth in May would mean that at least £300,000 a year for five years would be spent by the businesses in Weymouth on projects which they agree are most beneficial for the town.

“It is very important that we keep talking to businesses to ensure that the Weymouth BID reflects the ambitions and desires of the business community.”

Traders are encouraged to attend the drop in sessions or contact Mr Reed by calling 07557 142906.

More information is also available at www.weymouthbid.co.uk and the BID team can be followed on Twitter @WeymouthBID or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WeymouthBID.