WINCHESTER businesses have voted to keep the city’s Business Improvement District (BID) for another five years.
The ballot, which is held towards the end of each five-year term, revealed that 77.3% of businesses who voted were in favour of keeping the organisation, with a turnout of just over 40%.
In order for Winchester BID to receive a third term, more than half the business who voted needed to be in favour of the proposal and command a larger share of business rates than any objectors. 86.7% voted in favour by business rate value.
Catherine Turness, executive director of Winchester BID, said: “Feedback from BID members has determined our mandate and it is heartening that they have voted to support a vision for a further five years.
“With both the Central Winchester Regeneration (Silver Hill 2) and Station Approach developments within the BID area, the BID board will continue to provide a strong, bold voice for business and to feedback members’ aspirations for the changing local landscape to secure a stronger future for the city.”
During the organisation’s last term, its work has included projects to better promote Winchester as a vibrant cultural destination, improve the public realm, develop intelligence partnerships to create a safer environment, and provide support and guidance for city centre businesses.
Until the third term officially begins on April 1, a spokesman said team are busy preparing the city for the festive season ahead, with many decorations already installed ready for the switch-on ceremony on November 16.
In the New Year, the BID board will review its governance structure to allow new members to join.
Over the last decade, Winchester businesses have invested £5 million pounds in the city through the payment of an annual levy to the BID.
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