Thursday November 14th 2024
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
The Scottish Government is encouraging areas throughout the region to make applications to be a Business Improvement District (BID).
A BID is part of a town, tourism and visitor area, commercial district, or specific theme (such as food and drink), in which businesses work together to invest in local improvements.
BIDs can only exist if they get support from a clear majority of local businesses in a vote.
The team spearheading the renewal of the Tweed Valley Tourism BID initiative has now extended an invitation to local businesses and community members for a pre-ballot drop-in session.
The upcoming event will be held at the Go Tweed Valley Visitor Information Centre in Peebles on Thursday November 21st running from 3pm to 7pm.
The organizing team, supported by a board of directors representing diverse tourism sectors in the region, aims to secure a renewed five-year term for the tourism BID.
Voting for the renewal is scheduled to commence on Thursday 5th December.
Last month, Go Tweed Valley, the public identity of the tourism BID, submitted their BID proposals along with their business plan for 2025-2030 to the Scottish Government and Scottish Borders Council.
Both organizations conveyed their “complete backing” for the ongoing initiative in the Tweed Valley.
Rich Rowe, Go Tweed Valley project manager, said: “Guided by the priorities of the tourism sector, we have made great strides in building the area’s identity as a compelling place to visit but are conscious that we are only just getting started.
“We believe that the Tweed Valley has all the ingredients to become a world-class activity destination with a year-round offer that also brings richness to the lives of all who live here.
“For us, what that means is ensuring that every element of the tourism offer – from services and experiences to infrastructure – is the very best it can be.
“That has to be the ambition.”
The 2025-2030 business plan highlights key priorities developed through comprehensive discussions with tourism BID members.
A major focus identified was the demand for “upgraded infrastructure,” with emphasis on public restrooms, bike amenities, parking, and transport services.
Additional priorities include stronger marketing efforts, increased business support and advocacy, and a well-coordinated annual events schedule.
These four focal points will become “core elements” of the BID’s agenda over the next five years, contingent upon a favourable yes vote.
The pre-ballot drop-in session on November 21st will offer tourism businesses and local communities in the Tweed Valley a chance to gain insights into the renewal ballot process.
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