Durham business district vote planned (From The Northern Echo)

Durham business district vote planned

1:01pm Thursday 23rd February 2012 in Durham City News By Mark Tallentire

TRADERS could be balloted on a new initiative aimed at improving Durham city centre as early as April, it has emerged.

City leaders are hoping to create a Durham Business Improvement District (BID), under which cash raised from a levy on businesses would be spent on making the area more attractive for residents, shoppers, visitors and retailers.

The plans have been in the pipeline for more than a year, with supporters asking traders their views over the winter.

Their survey found some backing for improving the marketing, appearance, safety and accessibility of the city centre and working together to cut business costs.

Fewer than one in ten businesses responded but this was higher than in other areas previously.

A vote on establishing a BID could now be held in April or May, by confidential postal ballot.

For a BID to be established, more than half of businesses and more than half of the rateable value of the area would have to back the proposals.

Six further consultation meetings for various business sectors will be held in Durham Town Hall on Monday and Tuesday.

Carol Feenan, the BID co-ordinator, said: "I am really pleased that businesses in Durham city centre are working together to take control and improve our city by identifying the services that they want delivered in the BID area.

"A BID in Durham City could really make a big difference."

Keith Crowther, owner of La Cookshop, on Elvet Bridge, and chairman of Durham City Chamber of Trade, said: "I believe that the Durham City BID offers Durham the chance to secure its future prosperity, through the lasting partnership between businesses that it will bring.

"It will also help Durham to enhance its reputation as a tourist and shopping destination."

Since their introduction in September 2004, more than 140 BIDS have been established across the UK; and they are together expected to attract nearly £300m of investment.

Typically, a BID levy has been between 1.5 per cent and 2.5 per cent of a business’ rateable value. Supporters say any improvements would add to, not replace, those done by Durham County Council.

What work was needed would be decided by a further vote.

BID status lasts for at least five years.

The Durham BID would cover shops and licensed premises in lower Claypath, Elvet, the Peninsula, Framwelgate Waterside and North Road.

For more information, visit durhambid.co.uk or call 0191-3831898.