The overwhelming majority of Acocks Green shopping centre businesses have voted ‘yes’ to a second term for their business improvement district (BID) with a 75 per cent majority and 82 per cent by rateable value, from a turnout of 48 per cent.
The result of the vote was announced by Mark Rogers, Chief Executive of Birmingham City Council, today (17 June).
Ian Jeffries, chair of the Acocks Green Village BID, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those businesses that have voted and look forward to their continued support and involvement over the next five years as we move Acocks Green forward together. When putting together the business plan for the next five years we listened to what the businesses wanted, while at the same time offering exceptional value for money. The ‘yes’ vote clearly shows that the majority of businesses are happy with the plan and have complete confidence in the BID’s fantastic team of staff to deliver its projects and objectives.
“Going forward, as per the new business plan, we will continue to build and develop the existing services – town wardens, cleaning services, training, marketing, Christmas lights, village floral displays, promotions and events – as well as develop new ones that will benefit businesses and the shopping centre.”
Sandy Gianni, BID manager throughout the first term and who led the BID to second term victory, said: “I’m delighted that businesses have decided to back the BID again. Acocks Green in comparison to many small town centres on the edge of major cities has done really well. My team have really stepped up to the plate and delivered everything in our business plan and much more.”
“Small shopping areas like ours constantly face tough challenges from online sales, city centre shopping and out of town retail parks, but with the support of our businesses and the £629,000 investment over the past five years via the BID levy and funding generated elsewhere, we have managed to achieve so much and we are confident we can continue to enjoy low vacancy rates and offer a wonderful vibrant local centre shopping experience. To ensure our long term growth and prosperity, Acocks Green must become a hub for local communities to shop, work, relax and do business. When visiting, people need to feel safe, enjoy clean and attractive surroundings, be entertained, receive excellent customer service and enjoy the whole experience – Acocks Green has all of that, and we’re very proud.”
Councillor John Clancy, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “We know that business improvement districts can bring significant benefits, not just to our business communities but to the wider community as a whole, so I am delighted at the outcome of this ballot, in which businesses voted overwhelmingly in favour of a second term.
“I’m determined to oversee further economic development across Birmingham and this news will boost businesses in the south of the city. This is the next stage in the evolution of devolution in Birmingham and I now look forward to seeing Acocks Green Village BID continue to build on the successes of its first term.”
For further information please visit www.acocksgreenbid.com
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