Bidding to give business a boost
Hopes that scheme will win the approval of traders
Latest proposals to set up a second Business Improvement District in Stirling city centre are reaching a crucial stage.
From May 23, shops and firms will receive the business plan, underpinning the scheme, and voting papers.
They will be delivered by the Go Forth steering group which is made up of business representatives from the area.
It was formed after a previous attempt to set up a BID in Stirling was rejected following a vote.
Business will have the chance to vote between May 23 and July 4, and the result will be announced on July 5.
Steering group members believe they have addressed some of the concern raised by firms when the BID plan was given the thumbs down in 2015.
Spokesman David Gowen said the plan offered a range of initiatives to make the city centre a better place to visit, live and work .
Proposals to increase footfall and spending in the city centre include free superfast wi fi, introduction of a ‘land train’ to allow visitors and shoppers to better discover Stirling man shops and attractions, and creation of a winter festival.
Chairman of the steering group Peter Betts, Debenhams store manager, said: “We are ready to present what we believe is a very well thought out plan that will benefit all businesses in the city centre.
“There are many other successful BIDs already established across Scotland and the rest of the UK, delivering real benefits.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to take control of their future and have a strong influence over the developments planned for their city centre.”
Zahir Haider, from Computer Division, Upper Craigs, endorsed the proposals having previously been against the BID.
He said:: “When the first vote was being discussed we were caught between our tenants in Upper Craigs and ourselves as landlords. We thought it was not fair on smaller businesses.
“It is clear from what is now being put forward, that you have listened and positive steps have been taken. I think it deserves a chance this time.”
If the BID is approved, traders can expect to pay each year no more than one and quarter per cent of their rateable value towards a pot of cash will be used to implement proposals outlined in the business plan.
Of the 560 businesses within the Stirling BID area, about 160 with rateable values of £10,000 or less will pay nothing.
Those whose rateable value is £15,000 can expect to pay £187.50 a year, and businesses with a rateable value of £20,000 will have to fork out £250 every 12 months.
Assuming the BID is agreed and traders pay the required levy, it will generate £1.6 million over the five-year period in which the BID is in force before a new vote has to be taken.
This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to take control of their future