Bath’s Business Improvement District (BID) has been “a remarkable success story”, generating 3.5 times more income than predicted when its original business plan was drafted ahead of its 2011 launch.
This message was delivered by chief executive Andrew Cooper to BID levy payers at an event to update them on its progress over the past year and gain feedback on its plans. 
The event also gave BID members a chance to question Mr Cooper along with Bath Tourism Plus (BTP) chief executive David James.
Mr Cooper, pictured, highlighted how collaboration between the BID and BTP was supporting retailers and city centre businesses through events staged in the quieter months for tourism such as Bath in Fashion and Great Bath Feast.
He also said while Bath was below the national average for empty retail units, it was still a problem and the BID was contacting landlords to gain access to empty premises to keep them tidy.
Bid chairman Nigel Huxley said there had been clear evidence over the past 12 months that working in collaboration had brought economic benefits to businesses.
To questions from members Mr James said there was an objective to having “fewer visitors staying longer and spending more”.
The event also heard that 70% of BID members supported the BID’s latest idea, as reported by Bath Business News earlier this month, of introducing ‘welcome hosts’ in Bath.
The BID, which also operates the night marshal and taxi marshal schemes, is seeking the views of its 655 members and other businesses on a range of new initiatives to boost the city centre ahead of a ballot later this year for it to continue in operation.
