Still time to vote in BID Fort William

Ballot papers were issued on Thursday 3 October 2024 to all businesses who were eligible and who would become levy payers and members of the Fort William Business Improvement District (BID). 

Any businesses who think they are eligible to vote but may not have received their ballot papers, or any electors requiring a replacement ballot must contact The Highland Council’s Election Office on 01349 886657 or email: election@highland.gov.uk. 

The ballot is being conducted entirely by post. For the BID to be successful there must be a minimum of 25% turnout by the number of businesses and by combined rateable value. Of those that vote, over 50% by number and 50% by combined rateable value must vote in favour of the BID. 

A Business Improvement District 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, where businesses have voted to invest collectively in local improvements which will benefit the local economy. 

BIDs have a maximum current duration of 5 years and are either dissolved at the end of their term or go back to a vote to be renewed by a further ballot of all eligible businesses. 

All ballot papers must be returned in the pre-paid envelope provided to the CIVICA Election Services by no later than 5pm on Thursday 21 November 2024. Ballot papers will be counted on Friday 22 November 2024 and the result announced thereafter. 

For further information on the BID, please contact BID Fort William, MacLean House, Belford Road, Fort William, PH33 6BT; www.bidfortwilliam.co.uk; Email: mark@bidfortwilliam.co.uk or phone: 07804 484650. 

For further information on the ballot visit www.highland.gov.uk/bidfortwilliam