Overwhelming Agreement of Approval
Businesses in two areas of Birmingham have voted in favour of setting up new Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and joining ten other BID areas across the city in improving trade and competitiveness and having the opportunity to shape their future.
In an independently scrutinised ballot the majority of participating business, as measured by rateable value) voted in favour of establishing BIDs as follows:
BID ballot for Sparkbrook and Springfield:
Turnout: 23%
Yes by number: 83%
Yes by Rateable Value: 86%
BID Ballot For Soho Bid
Turnout: 21%
Yes by number: 92.7%
Yes by rateable value: 87%
A BID is where businesses within a defined geographic area agree to pay a small levy, so that the collective funds can be used to deliver improvements agreed by the businesses that promote and support the businesses within the area and contribute to the regeneration of those areas.
Welcoming the ballot results, Councillor Tahir Ali, Cabinet Member for Development, Jobs and Skills said: “I am delighted that businesses in Soho Road and Sparkbrook & Springfield have voted to become BIDs. Both areas have a dynamic business culture, and possess a wealth of community and entrepreneurial spirit; BID status will be a catalyst to further boost competitiveness, attract investment and create strong partnerships. “
Maz Iqbal, Chairman Sparkbrook Springfield Town Centre Partnership said: “I am over the moon with the result. With over 980 mostly independent businesses, from very diverse backgrounds, we will have the largest and most unique BID in the country. I am absolutely certain that the BID will improve the experience of Sparkbrook and Springfield for traders, consumers and residents alike.”
More information can be found on the associations website: www.sparkbrookandspringfield.co.uk/home
