Kendal traders' views sought about creating Business Improvement District (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Kendal traders' views sought about creating Business Improvement District

10:00am Wednesday 19th September 2012 in Business

TRADERS and firms in a South Lakeland town are to be canvassed for their views on creating a Business Improvement District (BID).

Kendal Futures has contracted Chris Kolek, a community engagement consultant, to carry out the consultation with as many businesses in the town as possible over the next few months.

He wants to know what action business people would like to improve the economic activity in the town over the next few years. A BID is a defined area in which businesses agree to work in partnership to develop products and services to benefit their trading environment. The range of products and services are identified through consultation with businesses from which a plan is created.

Projects are financed through a levy paid by local businesses that is charged in addition to standard business rates. “It’s important that all businesses understand what a Business Improvement District is, and have the opportunity to express their opinions, and to consider what impact it could have on the town,” said Mr Kolek. “I will use several different methods to hear as many views as possible over the coming months, including face-to-face visits, meetings and email contact.”

Peter Hensman, local businessman and chairman of Kendal Futures, said: “This presents an opportunity for businesses to collectively invest in projects and services which will benefit their customers, their staff, visitors and residents. This is vital to the future competitiveness and vibrancy of the town.”

Developing a BID proposal to take forward to a vote usually takes around a year.

A BID Steering Group will be formed, made up of several local businesses, to lead the work and liaise regularly with Mr Kolek.

It will be chaired by Martyn Nicholson, CBI representative on the Kendal Futures Board.