To agree to vote in favour of Hereford BID for the second, five year term.

To agree to pay the levy on Herefordshire Council properties in the BID area to the value of £21,495 per annum.

The cabinet member environment, economy and skills introduced the report noting that:

·        Business improvement districts were a recognised tool to deliver economic benefits, allowing business to lead in providing services additional to those already provided by the council;

·        Initiatives such as the Stronger Towns fund require strong business input, giving the Hereford BID an important role to play;

·        The Hereford BID board were keen to welcome new members.

The economic development manager explained that there was a voting process to approve continuing the BID for a further period with all businesses located with the BID area entitled to vote. The council had 25 votes to case. Consultation had taken place with the approximately 400 businesses in the BID area and the majority were strongly in favour of continuing the BID.

Cabinet members noted that the work done by the BID supported tourism, particularly as the council was not able to give as much support in this area as it might wish due to financial constraints, and had increased footfall in the city centre.

Groups leaders commented that it was pleasing to see that business supported the BID as good value for money. It was suggested that they be encouraged to share positive experiences with the market towns to encourage other BIDs to be set up. It was also suggested that ongoing events should reflect the climate emergency.

Cabinet members noted that a Herefordshire BID that would cover all market towns was in development and this could be a very positive step. The increase in the rateable value threshold for business to pay the levy was welcomed as good for smaller businesses.

It was agreed that:

(a)   the Economic Development Manager be authorised to vote in favour of Hereford BID for the second, five year term (2020-2025);

(b)   payment of the levy on Herefordshire Council properties in the BID area be approved, valued at £21,495 in year one (an increase of £14,790 on the current levy paid) for a period of up to five years; and

(c)   The Director of Economy and Place (liaising with Legal Services) be authorised to finalise and arrange for the execution by the Council of all necessary contract documentation relating to the BID extension.