Consultations are underway for the creation of a landmark new Bristol BID.
05/11/2024
Bristol is set to enhance its business landscape and drive economic growth through a landmark new city-wide Business Improvement District (BID). With an investment of circa £17 million over five years, the proposed Bristol BID aims to unite the existing Bristol City Centre BID, Redcliffe & Temple BID and Broadmead BID under one vision, strengthening the city’s economic vitality and reputation. If approved by businesses, the new BID will officially launch in November 2025.
The proposed BID builds on a shared mission to create a unified, thriving city. The initiative will streamline resources, boost investment and amplify the collective voice of over 1,000 businesses, similar to the operating model of other major UK cities including Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle.
The consolidation of the three BIDs will formalise existing successful collaborations such as the Bristol Light Festival, TAP for Bristol and the Business Crime Reduction Partnership. By pooling resources, the new BID will enhance city-wide projects, extend initiatives to more areas and ensure a consistent delivery of services.
The new Bristol BID will focus on four core delivery themes, each designed to benefit businesses, residents and visitors:
With a focus on driving footfall and enhancing reputation, the BID aims to expand successful initiatives like the Bristol Light Festival, which attracted over 275,000 visitors in 2024. It will also introduce a new Bristol Shopping website, increase investment in the nighttime economy and strengthen partnerships for national campaigns and the city’s iconic festivals.
Expanding existing initiatives like the Business Crime Reduction Partnership, the BID will also introduce new roles, including a Youth Services Officer and a nighttime safe space to support venues and hospitals in order to build a secure and inclusive city. Enhanced crime prevention measures through greater resources for Security Rangers and expanded partnerships with Street Pastors, Bristol Nights and TAP for Bristol will create a safer and more compassionate city for all.
Dedicated cleansing teams will extend graffiti removal and jet washing services to new areas. The proposals include enhancing the city’s welcome and arrival, improving visitor information and investing in public art in order to create a better city experience. Seasonal initiatives like Winter Lights will also be expanded to key areas.
With increased investment, the BID will cement its role in leading the way in sustainability through undertaking large-scale greening projects, establishing new green spaces and supporting sustainable travel options including the popular Dr Bike scheme. An expanded climate action programme and initiatives to reduce single-use materials will also position Bristol as a forward-thinking city.
By unifying the three BIDs and expanding the footprint, the proposed new Bristol BID will increase investment from £11 million to circa £17 million over five years, significantly boosting the city’s capacity to deliver high-impact projects that drive business growth, enhance public spaces and elevate visitor experiences. This new approach unlocks over £500,000 in savings, creating a more efficient and cost-effective model to reinvest in city initiatives.
The BID is consulting on two levy options of 1.75% and 1.9% and only those businesses with a rateable value of £30,000 or more will pay the levy. This proposal will generate essential funds to support a wide range of projects, ensuring greater value for all contributors. The new BID will also consult on expansions to the current boundaries to include more businesses in the city centre.
Consultations with businesses are underway, providing opportunities for feedback to shape the BID’s business plan. A formal ballot is scheduled for June 2025, with the new BID set to launch on 1 November 2025, should the vote pass.
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