Ripon BID (Business Improvement District) officially came into being in 2021 for 5 years, with the key priority being enhanced marketing and promotion for the visitor economy businesses and Ripon as a destination.
As it approaches the end of the first term, its future is now in the hands of local businesses. Every five years, they must decide whether to continue the BID for another term.
This is their opportunity to decide if they want to pay to allow it to continue to shape the future of the Ripon City Region.
The cost to business is 2% Of the rateable value of all premises charged as a levy with a
£5,000 Rateable value threshold for levy payments
If businesses vote yes, the BID will carry on, unlocking over £900,000 of investment through levy income and additional funding.
The BID ballot is independent and confidential and is the responsibility of the Returning Officer at North Yorkshire Council. They will use an agent, Civica Election Services, ensuring full fairness and transparency. The process is underpinned by The BID Regulations (England) 2004.
The Manager of Ripon BID has been talking to YorkMix Radio for an interview on this Sunday’s Late Show.
Lilla Bathurst told David Dunning: “We are currently in our ballot process and so businesses are at the moment voting on whether they would like us to continue.
“Our business plan is broadly to continue the services that we offer currently, but with a few additional items.
“It’s worth pointing out that, without the BID, there is no definitive vehicle to get extra funding in and we’ve got an extra £180,000 pounds for Ripon, so far. Without a BID, there isn’t really that vehicle to do that.
“I’ll be announcing the results on the 13th March, and I’m really keen that as many businesses as possible vote, because we would like a mandate that really shows that they want us to continue.
“So I would encourage any Ripon BID business to look out for your ballot paper. If you can’t find it, contact me.”
Lilla Bathurst says there has been a 29% rise in footfall over the life of the BID.
The full radio interview with Lilla Bathurst airs on Sunday 1st March at 10pm on YorkMix Radio and will be available after to listen again too.
Ripon BID aims to do the following;
Creating a brand for Ripon and marketing the area as a must-visit destination.
Investing in the look and feel of Ripon with better wayfinding and cleaning and greening.
Providing business savings, training and support.
For full details of the BID’s plans for the next five years and for details of how you can vote to continue or end the operation head to this link here
