Businesses balloted on creation of a Business Improvement District

Nearly 600 businesses in Huddersfield are being balloted on the creation of a Business Improvement District (BID).
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They are voting on whether to pay a levy on top of existing business rates to create a £2.2m pot of cash to be spent on improving the town over five years. The result will be announced on Friday, July 12.

The levy income will come from businesses within the two BID zones, which cover the sector within the ring road and the immediate surrounding areas. 

Businesses will pay an extra 1.5% or 0.75% if they are within both zones. If the vote is successful, the BID will run to 2024, with the potential for extension or renewal.

The BID investment objectives are:

• To create a vibrant town centre and immediate surrounding area which has a strong sense of identity and a positive awareness locally, regionally and nationally. 
• To create an accessible town centre for visitors, residents and people working in and around the town centre and immediate surrounding area to explore. 
• To develop and maintain a safe and attractive environment for visitors, residents and people working in the town centre and the immediate surrounding area to enjoy. 
• To encourage the growth, development and investment of businesses and organisations which support the development of Huddersfield’s identity. 

BIDS were launched by the government to allow an extra levy to be charged on firms in certain areas that wish to group together to finance long-term projects. Kirklees Council supports the BID.

Among the 300 UK towns and cities operating with BID status are Halifax, Leeds, Sheffield and Wakefield.

Representatives on the BID board and steering group include the University of Huddersfield, Boots, Lawrence Batley Theatre, McDonalds, the Media Centre, and the Piazza Shopping Centre as well as the Federation of Small Businesses, Huddersfield Civic Society and the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

Vernon O’Reilly, Chair of Huddersfield Steering Group, says: 'Huddersfield is a place which has a sense of community but is seeking direction, a sense of purpose and a clear identity in a rapidly changing world.

'Towns and cities across the UK are changing rapidly and we need to ensure that Huddersfield does not get left behind but takes advantage of its unique position in terms of its attractive environment, its cultural heritage and the strength of its people through their passion for the town.
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'This plan provides us with a clear direction for a new exciting era in Huddersfield. I urge you to get involved and work together for the future of the town and our businesses by voting YES in the ballot in June.'

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