Council: BID moves forward

Nairn is just weeks away from finding out if it has been successful in gaining long-awaited

BID (Business Improvement District) status.

The BID proposal was cleared yesterday by local councillors to go before the full Highland Council for final approval on Thursday June 28, and then to a ballot by local businesses in August.

Nairn firms, supported by Highland Council, have been working since 2015 to look at setting up NairnConnects BID to generate economic activity through local businesses working together and investing collectively in improvements to their town.

The main objectives of the BID have been laid out as building Nairn’s reputation as a desirable place to visit and shop, developing a yearround programme of events to generate revenue, and providing better signposts.

Association of Nairn Businesses chairman Michael Boylan presented a report to local councillors at yesterday’s Highland Council Nairnshire Committee.

It’s thought the BID would raise £100,000 a year from its business levy.

Mr Boylan said: “From cosmetic improvements to a brand for Nairn, a BID can use the likely £500,000 revenue over five years to employ experts to generate income to support local groups which, in turn, can make improvements for the town and its residents.”

Mr Boylan said the ballot of eligible people would take place in August, followed by a threemonth introduction period with the BID aimed to be running by early next year.