The BIG BID vote: 'Yes' vote to bring a more vibrant, attractive and thriving Inverness city centre
As crunch time approaches for Inverness BID renewal with the ballot closing at 5pm on March 23, it is worth reflecting on the message from its chairman Peter Strachan.
- Looking ahead to what's new for Inverness if another term is won
- What do we lose if Inverness businesses say 'no' to a fourth term?
The crisp message to voting businesses was: "Together we have achieved and can achieve much more."
Mr Strachan acknowledged that the business environment is currently going through a very sticky patch but by having the united front of the BID and its stakeholder partners on their side, businesses can weather the difficult times.
He said: "There is still much to do to help our centre reach its full potential and as the economic climate at present is tough I believe we need our BID more than ever and that we cannot afford to lose it at this critical time.
"Our response in crisis was put to the test during the pandemic but we met and exceeded expectations by providing our business community with extensive support every step of the way and our actions were recognised nationally when we won an award for this response and our actions via Scotland’s Towns Partnership.
"By voting yes, we will be there for you every step of the way again and while the situation is undoubtedly challenging, there is also much to be positive about including the completion of Union Court (Union Street) and Merchant House (Castle Street) developments, the Victorian Market revamp, the levelling up projects including Spirit of the Highlands at the castle, the joint city strategy and more.
"Your continued support of Inverness BID also provides a great opportunity for us to invest collectively, pull resources and make sure that the changes we all want to see and as far as possible – happen.
"The cost to our businesses is relatively low and via our BID we have a strong voice, can influence and direct a vast array of changes and we can further maintain access to external assistance and funding which is not available to individual businesses."
BID points out that additional funding of nearly £160,000 per annum has been attained over and above the investment levy payments in the current BID term, to further improve the changes and development opportunities in the area which results in a greater impact via BID than individual businesses working alone or in small groups could achieve.
Mr Strachan's upbeat message ended: "To have a say, secure a more prosperous, brighter future for our city centre vote yes. Together we can help Inverness city centre better achieve its potential and create a more vibrant, attractive and thriving centre and share in its success."
