Carlisle is set to see a significant boost to its local economy and tourism following a successful ballot that will establish a Business Improvement District (BID). The initiative, overwhelmingly supported by local businesses, aims to enhance the city’s appeal and provide additional services over the next five years.
Key Takeaways
- 128 businesses voted in favour of the Carlisle BID.
- The BID will operate from February 1, 2026, to January 31, 2031.
- Funding will come from a 1.5% levy on businesses with a rateable value of at least £15,000.
- The BID will focus on events, tourism campaigns, business support, and improving public spaces.
Business Improvement District Approved
In a decisive ballot, 128 businesses in Carlisle voted in favour of establishing a Business Improvement District (BID). This marks a significant step towards revitalising the city centre and surrounding areas. The BID, which will be funded by local businesses, is designed to operate for a five-year period, commencing on February 1, 2026, and concluding on January 31, 2031.
The vote saw a turnout of 24.7%, with 128 votes in favour, 106 against, and two rejected ballots. For the BID to proceed, it required a majority in both the number of votes cast and the total rateable value of the businesses participating. The total rateable value of businesses voting in favour reached £7,477,750, exceeding the required threshold.
Scope and Funding of the BID
The Carlisle BID will cover a substantial area of the city, encompassing numerous wards including Belah, Stanwix Urban, Botcherby, Harraby North, Harraby South, Upperby, Currock, Denton Holme, Castle, Morton, Yewdale, and Belle Vue. It will also include parts of the Houghton and Irthington, Wetheral and Dalston, and Burgh wards that are closest to the urban core.
Funding for the BID will be generated through a levy applied to businesses with a rateable value of £15,000 or more. These businesses will contribute 1.5% of their rateable value. Cumberland Council will be responsible for collecting these levies and holding the funds in a ring-fenced account on behalf of the BID company.
Plans for Investment and Development
The collected funds are earmarked for a variety of initiatives aimed at boosting Carlisle’s economy and appeal. Key areas of focus include:
- Animation: Developing and delivering an annual programme of festivals, public art installations, and cultural events to increase footfall and foster civic pride.
- Marketing: Creating and implementing strategic marketing campaigns to position Carlisle as a prime destination for tourism, investment, and skilled workers.
- Business Support: Offering tailored services to start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including training, networking opportunities, and advocacy.
- Livability: Undertaking projects to enhance public spaces, improve safety, and boost overall wellbeing, making the city more attractive for residents and visitors alike.
The Great Border City group, comprised of local business owners who championed the BID proposal, has welcomed the outcome, expressing optimism for the future of Carlisle.
