Hereford Businesses Vote to Renew Improvement District Scheme

Businesses located in Hereford have cast votes to maintain a Business Improvement District (BID) within the city’s high street. This initiative has been extended for an additional five years, with plans focusing on enhancing events, projects, and marketing efforts. A total of 255 businesses participated in the voting process, with 232 expressing support for a new term for the BID. Chairman Paul Stevens commented that the results signify a “bright future for Hereford” and will “build on the 10 years of work we have already done” in caring for, championing, and supporting businesses. A BID defines a specific area where a levy is imposed on business rate payers. The funds generated are then utilized to develop projects intended to benefit companies operating within that area. The Hereford BID’s business plan for the period 2025 to 2030 is structured around three core themes: Destination Hereford, the visitor experience, and the voices of businesses. Chief executive Mike Truelove stated that the upcoming five years will involve the development of the Hereford Gift Card, various events including a new medieval festival, a five-year tourism marketing campaign, and the introduction of a banning scheme to address store theft. For further updates, BBC Hereford & Worcester can be followed on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding the BBC’s approach to external linking is available.