BID group prepares to launch business plan

Following months of consultation and discussions, Newtown's Business Investment District group is planning to launch its business plan next week, ahead of a ballot on whether to set up a BID next year.

The BID project started in July with a consultation to gauge interest in plans to improve investment in the town centre and to encourage more opportunities for shoppers, businesses and residents.

During the consultation it identified several areas it plans to support, including promoting Newtown, business support, skills and training, tourism and accessing land and property, as well as others.

On the 25 November the group will launch its business plan that will set out what it wants to achieve.

BIDs have been set up throughout the country to support the growth and development of town centres and business communities. Retailers and businesses in the town will support the group financially.

The BID group has the support of the Welsh Government and Powys County Council among others who are helping with the initial set up.

In January a ballot will open to allow people to vote for whether a formal Business Investment District is set up in the town.

If successful, it would be established after February when the results of the ballot will be announced.

More details are expected next week.