Exploring the potential of a Business Improvement District (BID)Altogether Better

Please see overleaf for how you can take part

What is a BID or Business Improvement District?

Why a BID could be great for Basingstoke?Businesses from Basingstoke are considering setting up a BID that would champion improvements to Basingstoke as a business centre.

A BID is a business-owned, led and funded company set up by a democratic ballot. If the businesses vote ‘yes’ to a BID, they pay a levy based upon the current rateable value of their property.

The BID board then uses this money to make local improvements, over and above services provided by the council.

BIDs have been an outstanding success in more than 180 locations in the UK since they were first introduced in 2004.

Success Story: WinchesterWinchester has had a BID since 2007; promoting the area, enhancing its look and feel, helping businesses thrive and tackling safety issues. After 5 years, businesses voted in 2012 to keep the BID for a second term.

Image above © Peter Facey, Geograph

Why a BID could be great for Basingstoke?Businesses from Basingstoke are considering setting up a BID that would champion improvements to Basingstoke as a business centre.

What could a BID do for Basingstoke?A BID programme in Basingstoke could include both the Town Centre and Basing View, or be set up separately in each location. It could include these elements:

Marketing and EventsA BID could promote Basingstoke as a destination to shop, play and do business.

Doing Business TogetherA BID could help Basingstoke businesses to work in partnership - trading with one another and saving costs by buying key services such as recycling and utilities together.

Employee BenefitsA BID could help employees make the most of the town centre, with discount or loyalty cards, helping to offer improved travel options, and providing volunteering opportunities.

Streets and Open SpacesA BID could help to improve the look and feel of some key areas, or make places easier to navigate, and create an excellent environment for visiting, working and living in.

Survey and EventYour views matter. How can I take part in this exciting initiative?The first step to establishing a BID programme is to gauge the opinions of local businesses and find out what you think should be included. We would like to interview you to hear your opinions. If you’re unable to do this in person, you can complete the survey online at:

www.basingstokebid.co.uk

Join with the Town Centre Forum and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to learn more over refreshments, and help us explore the potential for creating a Business Improvement District (BID) for Basingstoke.

Monday 16th March, 18:00 – 20:00Town Centre Chaplaincy, 2nd Floor, Paddington House, Festival Place, Basingstoke RG21 7LJ RSVP eleanor.leone@themeans.co.uk

You’re invited. Come to our event on 16th March.

If you have any questions, please contact eleanor.leone@themeans.co.uk

Working Together