All of us want to find cost-effective ways to attract more customers, especially when this is so expensive for us working individually. We believe we have found a tried and tested solution.Other BID towns have shown that small contributions from many businesses can have a considerable impact on encouraging people to stay longer, spend more and ensuring they come back again.

A number of us in businesses along the coastal strip from Westbourne, through the West Cliff and East Cliff to Boscombe and on through to Southbourne would like to recommend that we pursue the creation of a Business Improvement District (BID).  What form this will take, what it sets out to achieve and how it is funded is up to you to help determine.

Des Simmons – Coastal District BIDs Steering Group Chairman

Coastal Districts Newsletter to download

2nd Coastal District BID Newsletter Nov 2011

BIDs put local businesses, in the driving seat.  Those within the agreed geographical area and business sector vote, to decide how the money is raised, how it is spent and who runs the BID company.  The many contributions from a wide range of businesses create a significant pot of money which, when spent on additional services, can lead to better business.The map below shows the proposed study area (in darker blue).  All businesses with a rateable value over £9,500 (excluding commercial offices) will be consulted over the coming months.  A detailed Business Plan will be developed and sent to all eligible businesses in order for you to decide how you vote in the ballot (probably this autumn).

To find out more about BIDs generally, click here, or specific details on the Coastal Districts BID click here.