Decision Maker: Economy and Skills Policy Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 31, 2025

Purpose: To provide information on the proposed Bristol Business Improvement District (BID); to seek delegated authority on a number of BID related matters; and to note the position of the council as a levy payer and delegate the voting responsibility to the Chief Executive.

Content: That the Committee for Economy & Skills:   1.      Noted that Economic Development and Business Rates have considered the BID proposal and ensured that it does not conflict with any formal policy adopted by the council, checked the financial arrangements and ensured that the levy rules are fair and deliverable, in accordance with the Business Improvement Districts England Regulations 2004 (“the BID regulations”). 2.      Authorised the formal management of the ballot process in accordance with the BID regulations. 3.      Endorsed council support for the proposal. 4.      Authorised the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chair and Vice-Chair, to exercise voting rights on behalf of the council in the BID ballot. 5.      That subject to a “yes” vote at BID ballot: a.      noted that the council will be the billing authority and will manage the billing, collection of the levy and financial contributions, and its transfer to Visit West; b.      noted the council meet the council’s obligations in paying the BID levy, as a non–domestic ratepayer in the BID, in accordance with the BID regulations over the life of the BIDs; c.       authorised the council entering into an Operating Agreement with Visit West.