Milngavie businesses approve Business Improvement District renewal

The recent ballot saw more than 88 per cent of votes cast in favour of the proposal (Image: East Dunbartonshire Council)

Businesses in Milngavie have voted to renew the town’s Business Improvement District (BID) for the third time.

The recent ballot saw more than 88 per cent of votes cast in favour of the proposal, with the result announced on February 1 by East Dunbartonshire Council’s Chief Executive, Ann Davie.

The council said the change will ensure that the Milngavie BID will function as an operational, not-for-profit, limited liability company.

Ian Lavrie, vice-chair of the Milngavie BID and local business owner, said: “I have been involved in the Milngavie BID for the last 10 years, having contacted BIDs Scotland in 2012 to get things set up for Milngavie.

“I am absolutely delighted that businesses within our BID area have supported the plans for a third time – a clear demonstration that the BID approach does work as an investment vehicle for our towns.

“By getting involved in the Milngavie BID, we have demonstrated businesses can work together to increase footfall, stimulate investment, enhance the reputation of our town centre and provide a strong, unified voice.”

The initiative builds on achievements from the past decade by providing a range of initiatives that benefit local businesses and an event programme to drive visitors to the precinct.

This includes comprehensive marketing campaigns to attract more visitors, continual promotion of the town centre as a destination for shopping and leisure through various marketing channels, enhancing digital presence for local businesses and maintenance of public spaces.

The group also aims to reduce vacant units and improve shopfronts and signage.

Milngavie’s website hosts information such as an events calendar and a business directory of all levy payers, which has more 10,000 visitors monthly.

Councillor Paul Ferretti, convener of PNCA, said: “I’m very pleased that the Milngavie BID has once again secured the support of so many local businesses – its third successful ballot result. Congratulations to all involved.

“The BID provides local traders, hospitality venues and services with a collective voice – helping to guide regeneration, investment and initiatives. Working together we can build on the huge amount that has been achieved over the last 10 years.”

The BID’s upcoming challenges include completing the BID term running to 30 April 2024 and planning regular promotional campaigns around major holidays.

For more information, visit https://MilngavieBID.com and www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/BID-ballot-results.