News / Redcliffe and Temple BID
Redcliffe and Temple BID ready to go to the ballot
People leading the development of a new Business Improvement District (BID) for Redcliffe and Temple say their work is more important than ever as the city seeks to rebuild.
A fully costed plan for the area has been more than a year in the making and, following a six-month delay due to the pandemic, is now ready to go to the ballot for a decision on whether it should be implemented.
The initiative is being proposed by Destination Bristol, which already operates the Broadmead and Bristol City Centre BIDs, and the plan has been shaped by an advisory board made up of 12 men and two women.
If successful, the BID would bring an investment of more than £5m into the neighbourhood, which is set to see some of the biggest changes in decades with major developments, including the new Redcliff Quarter scheme and renovation of the historic Generator Building, among others.
Redcliffe & Temple BID advisory group – taken from the Redcliffe & Temple Bid plan
The ballot will be open from March 18 until April 15 2021, with all businesses in the area – which stretches just south of the river, past Temple Meads and down to Castle Park – given a vote on whether or not the proposal should be implemented.
If successful at the ballot, all eligible businesses – irrespective of how they voted – will be required to pay 1.5 per cent of their rateable value towards the BID. Those who already contribute to a managed space will receive a 50 per cent discount to account for the services that are already provided to them as part of their management charge.
Redcliffe & Temple BID boundary plan – image courtesy of Redcliffe & Temple BID
Redcliffe & Temple BID development manager Jo Hawkins has been leading on this project, with the assistance of Tom Swithinbank.
Speaking about the BID plans, Jo says: “Many of the projects in the business plan were suggested by businesses before the pandemic started and all focus on making the area a better place for everyone. Recent consultation has revealed that they are now even more important.
“Like all city centres, Bristol will continue to evolve, it will remain a critical hub for people and for businesses. The Redcliffe & Temple Business Improvement District will give us the opportunity to work together towards a tangible and effective recovery.”
The aim, say those leading the project, is to make the Redcliffe and Temple area “an inspirational, sustainable and welcoming place for businesses, employees, visitors and residents and for it to be known as a thriving commercial district and an outstanding community”.
The consultation with all businesses in the new BID area began in February 2019 and from this process, five themes emerged which will be a key focus if the ballot is successful.
The themes are:
- Creating & maintaining quality spaces
- Improving sustainability & the environment
- Creating & promoting a vibrant place
- Connecting & representing businesses
- Building a safe & caring community
Speaking in support of the BID, Imran Ali, general manager at Doubletree by Hilton Hotel and member of the Redcliffe & Temple BID advisory group, said: “Destination Bristol has a proven track record for implementing two very successful BIDs in Bristol. I am excited to be part of this new BID which will focus on co-ordinating improvements, caring for the public realm and promoting the area – all of which will benefit my guests and my staff
“I see the BID and the projects proposed by the BID as a key part of the area’s future as we respond to the challenges of Covid-19.”
If the ballot is successful, a management board will be formed from representatives within the area to oversee, guide and manage the direction of the BID. There will also be the opportunity for business representatives to join working groups to influence BID projects and ensure that business needs are met.
The full business plan can be read via www.redcliffeandtemplebid.co.uk and anyone who would like further information about the BID is advised to contact jo@redcliffeandtemplebid.co.uk.
Main photo courtesy of Redcliffe & Temple BID
Read more: BID to shape the future of Redcliffe
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