Canterbury BID looks to continue to champion city as it unveils five year plan
Canterbury Business Improvement District (BID) has unveiled its blueprint for the next five years, outlining plans showing how it will deliver at least £3.6 million of projects.
Canterbury is one of 340 BIDS across the country. These not-for-profit orgainisations are funded by the businesses that benefit from them and the money ringfenced to be spent within the BID area on initiatives agreed in a formal business plan.
READ MORE: Reading businesses vote in favour of two new BID plans to enhance town centre
Canterbury BID's plan provides the case to renew its mandate for a further five years with a ballot now underway (until July 11) among over 650 businesses within the city walls, as well as on Northgate, St Dunstans and Riverside.
It seeks continued support for paying a 1.8% levy on their business rates if they are above £5,000 a year.
It is proposing to allocate £1.19m to promote Canterbury, a further £919,000 to support local businesses, and £967,000 on enhancing the experience of visiting the city.
The last few years have been challenging for high streets and city centres across the country, and Canterbury is no different," said Lisa Carlson, the chief executive of Canterbury BID.
"However, we start from a strong position thanks to our medieval and religious heritage, our global recognition and the quality of the visitor experience.
"Our business plan, developed by the team and the board in conjunction with our membership, will help ensure Canterbury remains Kent’s premier destination for visitors and residents, and supports a vibrant community of professional businesses," she added.
"There’s a lot set to happen over the next couple of years, including spending £22m of Levelling Up funding, restoration of heritage sites and investments in the city. "
Over the last ten years, the Canterbury BID has successfully unlocked £5.6 million, including more that £1 million of additional non-BID levy investment.
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