The Walton-on-Thames Business Improvement District (BID) moved a step closer to its launch with Elmbridge Borough Council approving £44,000 in advance funding to help the BID hit the ground running from day one of its launch on 1 March 2021.
The BID was developed by businesses for businesses to help deliver new investment and footfall into the town centre. It will provide up to £1million of new funding over 5 years to build on what makes Walton special and to provide a new energy to reinvigorate the town ahead of the challenges that lie ahead.
The BID will be a key part of the safe reopening of our high streets as the council works with businesses and our local trading associations to make sure our town and village centres can continue to adapt and thrive.
The BID Task Group Chairman, Peter Beggan, Assistant Director for New Business at Paragon Asra (PA) Housing said: “The advance funding agreed this week is another fantastic sign of the partnership between the council and businesses that will help make the Walton Business Improvement District a success. We were delighted to get such a positive result in the BID ballot in March with businesses backing the bid with 77% voting ‘yes’ by number and 90% voting ‘yes’ by rateable value.”
“Our Task Group rightly took the decision to delay the BID launch as our high streets went into lockdown shortly after the ballot, but with the safe reopening underway we think the BID has an important part of making sure Walton continues to be a great place to shop, live and work. This advance funding will help us to deliver for the businesses from day one of our five year business plan”
Councillor Christine Elmer, Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Community Development at Elmbridge Borough Council said:
“We are pleased to be able to support the Walton Business Improvement District with £44,000 in advance funding to help the BID set up and get to work supporting Walton town centre. The support for the Walton BID is a great example of how the council continues to work in partnership with our high streets and businesses. Together the BID will help raise and invest up to £1million over five years as we work together to ensure a bright future for the town.
“This commitment to support the BID complements our wider offer to businesses. This includes grants for independent retailers to help them sell online, support for shop front improvements, free parking offers, investment in our public realm, temporary pavement licenses and much more to ensure our town and village centres can come through the difficult times we all face together.”