Issue - meetings

The Committee is asked to:

1.    Agree to progress the development of a Business Improvement District (BID) for Ashford Town Centre proposal to the next stage; and

2.    Note the Feasibility Study undertaken on a potential Business Improvement District (BID) in Ashford by consultants Heartflood (Appendix A)

The Committee resolved to

1.    Agree to progress the development of a Business Improvement District (BID) for Ashford town Centre proposal to the next stage.

2.    Note the feasibility study undertaken on a potential Business Improvement District in Ashford completed by consultants Heartflood.

The Committee considered a report from the Senior Economic Development Officer on the feasibility of establishing a Business Improvement District (BID) in Ashford. Ashford town Centre had been identified as a location where additional investment would be beneficial, and establishment would potentially improve vitality of the town Centre and improve footfall. Initial surveys of businesses had indicated support in principal, though further feasibility studies and financial modelling were required before going to ballot for decision. 

Some members of the Committee noted the proposed boundary and suggested it could be expanded. The Committee also noted the proposed levy to operate the BID and the impact this may have on businesses, however they acknowledged the benefit a BID may have on Ashford town Centre. Some members expressed concern over the impact the proposed amount collected from the BID would have, but felt work towards a formal ballot should progress so the decision could be made by the businesses that would be impacted.

The Committee resolved to

1.    Agree to progress the development of a Business Improvement District (BID) for Ashford town Centre proposal to the next stage.

2.    Note the feasibility study undertaken on a potential Business Improvement District in Ashford completed by consultants Heartflood.