Southside secures Yes vote for BID 2
Southside Business Improvement District has secured a mandate for a second term from April 2016 following a resounding Yes vote from businesses within Birmingham’s most diverse district.
To secure a yes, voters needed to make up the majority of the ballot turnout by both number and ratable value. Southside received 83% of the vote with businesses from across Chinatown, Theatreland and the Gay Village voting yes. Of the total £9.3 million ratable value from levy payers, Southside achieved a Yes from 95% of the value.
In its first term Southside delivered an array of successful initiatives, overseeing an investment of nearly £2 million in improvements to the district for businesses, residents and visitors. BID 2 will see Southside continue to build a brighter future for the district, ensuring it is a greener, cleaner and safer place for all who reside there.
Paul Garry, chairman of Southside BID, said: “Securing a yes vote for BID 2 is a true testament to the work and dedication of those involved and we’re delighted that the voters have shown their support in the renewal ballot, providing us with a mandate for the next five years.
“BID 2 will see us continue to build relationships with our levy payers, acting as a voice for those who don’t feel like they have one or are unsure of who to turn to with business related issues. We have plans for the creation of new public spaces, improving safety in both the day and nighttime economy as well as sustaining additional investment in the district. Without the support of our levy payers we would not be able to accomplish this.”
Councillor Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for development, transport and the economy, said: “We know that Business Improvement Districts can bring significant benefits, not just to our business communities but to the wider community as a whole, so I am delighted at the outcome of this ballot, which will see Southside BID 2 continue to build on the success of the first term.”
ENDS
Media:
For more information please contact Chris Brown at Barques PR on chris@barquespr.co.uk / 0121 233 2080.
