BID progress for Neath Town Centre

A progress report on the development of a Business Improvement District (BID) in Neath has been presented to Councillors.

The proposed BID aims to deliver a sustainable financial model to a defined geographical area where businesses have the opportunity to vote to invest collectively in local improvements to the business environment, in addition to those delivered by statutory authorities. BIDs have been known to successfully bring together local businesses and stakeholders to improve trading conditions.

Early last year, Neath Port Talbot Council successfully secured funding of £25,000 from the Welsh Government to develop the BID concept, aims and vision together with an outline implementation strategy.

A business consultation was carried out with over 100 local traders to raise awareness and gauge the level of support for a BID. Results showed that the business health of the town was good with the majority of businesses reporting that turnover had grown over the last 12 months.

Results also highlighted the key priorities traders have such as parking, public toilet provision, anti-social behaviour and promotional activities.

In addition to the consultation, the ‘Welcome to Neath’ project was piloted to test the opportunity of a town information service at key locations. The week-long project was well received by traders, visitors and shoppers in the town.

The report recommends that the BID focuses on four key themes; access and welcome, safety and town centre environment, new prospects and business support and marketing activities.

A ballot on the BID has been proposed to take place this Autumn. Each business that falls within the BID boundary zones will be entitled to vote to determine whether the scheme goes ahead. If the majority of the vote is in favour of the BID, the start date will be 1st April 2016.

Further discussions are to take place on which areas of the town centre will be included in the BID zones.

Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Ali Thomas OBE, said, “Investing in town centres and supporting local businesses is a key priority for the Council”.

“Should local businesses vote for the creation of a Business Improvement District, I am sure that it would complement the excellent Regeneration work already undertaken, and currently under way in Neath Town Centre.”