Businesses in the centre of Hastings have voted to create a Business Improvement District (BID) and raise £1m to invest in the town.

Of 206 firms that voted in a ballot, 72% were in favour of the BID proposal, with a turnout of 45%, above the national average for a first time BID.

The money will come primarily from a 1.5% levy on 456 businesses in Hastings town centre with a rateable value threshold above £5,000.

A Positive Impact

Rob Woods, Town Centre Manager, said: “This has been an excellent result for the Hastings BID. Although it is tough on the High Street at the moment, Hastings’ businesses have voted in big numbers to invest £1m on initiatives that will have a positive impact on the vitality and vibrancy of the town centre”

The Hastings BID aims to deliver, amongst other things:

  • Marketing initiatives to help promote Hastings to new visitors and investors
  • More town centre events, Christmas lights and greening
  • An enriching, enjoyable and safe experience for visitors
    to the town
  • Collaborative buying power to save money
  •  A stronger voice for local businesses

The campaign’s website www.hastingsbid.co.uk will be retained until a new “Love Hastings” site is developed.