Millions to be spent on raising Bristol's 'visibility' under BID plans
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Millions of pounds could be spent on 'raising Bristol's visibility' under plans to unify the city's business improvement districts (BIDs).
The proposal to combine Bristol City Centre, Redcliffe and Temple, and Broadmead BID into a single city-wide initiative will boost Bristol's image and help drive footfall to the region,
those behind the campaign have said.
Under the plans, which are subject to a ballot of city centre businesses this month, around £5.7m will be used to transform the way the city promotes itself and supports its business
community.
“Bristol is already home to some of the most exciting events and creative talent in the country,” said Vicky Lee, director of Bristol City Centre BID .
“But we know we can go further, together. Through joined-up delivery, we can raise Bristol’s visibility, support more businesses, and champion our identity as a city that’s full of life.”
A BID is a defined area in which a levy is charged on all eligible business-rate payers in addition to the business rates bill. The money is then used to develop projects which will benefit
businesses in the local area.
Plans for the new unified BID include the expansion of the award-winning Bristol Light Festival, alongside increased support for events such as the Harbour Festival and Bristol Cocktail
Weekend.
The BID will also deliver seasonal marketing campaigns in partnership with Visit Bristol, seasonal activations, and the launch of a new city centre shopping website.
Existing initiatives such as the Love Bristol Gift Card, which has already locked in over £182,000 of spend to local venues, will also be "enhanced", according to those behind the proposals.
“We’re creating a BID that not only supports business but makes Bristol the place people want to visit, shop, explore and return to,” added Steve Bluff, director of Redcliffe and Temple BID.
“Our plans ensure local businesses benefit directly from high-quality promotional work and cultural events that reach every corner of the city centre.”
The BID proposals have been shaped in consultation with hundreds of businesses. The ballot period runs from Thursday, June 5, to Thursday, July 3, with results announced on Friday, July 4.