West Country News
BID vote in Taunton
8:00pm Wednesday 22nd February 2012
HUNDREDS of Taunton businesses and organisations could gang together to cut their utility bills.
Organisers hope their combined power will persuade gas and electricity companies to offer cheaper deals.
The initiative is among the selling points to encourage firms to sign for another five years to a town centre-boosting scheme.
Taunton town centre manager Graham Love is gathering support for the second Business Improvement District (BID), which collects a levy from businesses to fund initiatives in the main shopping area.
Mr Love said: “The second BID would market Taunton to promote footfall; continue with funding - with Avon and Somerset Police - a PC and two PCSOs; and extend initiatives such as the refurbishment of shop premises, business mentoring and coaching and services to help businesses cut costs – including a broker to negotiate with the utility companies.”
Ballot papers are going to firms to vote on whether to continue the BID – more than half of those who respond need to support it for it to continue.
If approved, 850 town centre firms will pay a levy of between £12 and £250 a year - 1.25% of their rateable value, up from 1%.
As well as businesses, the first BID also raised levies on County Hall, Taunton Pool and council-owned car parks.
The second BID would include Deane House.
Mr Love said: “As large employers, the local authorities are contributing to the BID through the levy and this is good news for businesses, shoppers and visitors to the town.
“Together with the investment from the private sector, the BID will direct funds to promote prosperity and support the county town during the downturn.”
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