What is a Business Improvement District (BID)?

BIDs are business-led and business-funded organisations that work to improve a defined commercial area.  Within a BID Area, a levy is charged on all business rate payers in addition to the business rates bill.  This levy is used to develop projects that will directly benefit businesses in the region.  

A Business Improvement District Programme is a partnership between a local authority and the local business community to develop projects and services that will benefit the trading environment within the boundary of a clearly defined commercial area. A BID is financially supported by the levying of a targeted rate and collected from all non-residential properties within the defined boundary.

Place based problems and issues demand place based responses. BIDS offer long term solutions. They are based on incremental success and local business involvement. Key objectives of BIDs are business creation and development, increased employment and local business investment, and an enhanced physical environment.

BIDs are also intended to promote the profile of a commercial district or business centre. BID’s are an important element in delivering Hamilton’s Economic Development Strategy. They build on Hamilton’s value proposition as a young, dynamic, agile city able to capitalise on opportunities by capturing the energy and skills of the city’s businesses. 

Membership

As a property or business owner within the Hamilton Central business improvement district (BID) you are automatically a member of the Hamilton Central Business Association (HCBA).  Your membership is paid by a portion of rates.  Hamilton Central Business Association has around 1200 members from 750 rateable properties.

HCBA provides advocacy, support and promotional opportunities for the business and property owners located within the Hamilton Central Business Improvement District (BID).

HCBA is Hamilton Central’s advocate, acting as a conduit between businesses, the community and local authorities.

The HCBA BID area includes all businesses located within the following areas:

Mill Street through to Hillsborough Terrace and Tristram Street across to the River

For more information on the Hamilton Central Business Association and what we provide for members or if you have any queries contact us below.