Carmarthenshire Council has officially endorsed the idea of a new five-year term for the business improvement scheme, Carmarthen BID (Business Improvement District), amidst resignations from its board of directors. The scheme, established five years ago, requires eligible businesses in the town to contribute a small percentage of their rateable value on top of their business rates annually. The funds raised are then utilised by the BID company to enhance the town centre and attract more footfall.
Recently, the board of directors of Carmarthen BID announced their decision to step down, effective from March 31, citing unwarranted harassment and abuse from a minority of individuals. In response, a new ballot has been initiated for a fresh five-year term in the spirit of democracy. Additionally, the BID manager has also tendered resignation. Concerns have been voiced by some traders who claim their opinions were not considered and have called for increased transparency regarding BID’s expenditure.
The BID board highlighted the positive developments made over the past 18 months in changing both the BID’s and the town’s perception. A spokesperson for Carmarthen BID pointed out that the scheme’s accounts are publicly available through Companies House and that efforts have been made to engage with businesses. The management of BID ballots falls under the purview of Carmarthenshire Council, which is also responsible for collecting the levy.
During a recent cabinet meeting, council members agreed to supervise the new ballot process and expressed their support for the BID concept. However, they opted against appointing a council representative to the BID board. Cllr Hazel Evans, holding the regeneration portfolio, emphasised the success of the BID schemes in Llanelli and other parts of Wales, mentioning that the absence of a council representative on the Llanelli BID board has not hindered its efficacy.
Acknowledging the tumultuous history of Carmarthen’s BID scheme over the past five years, Cllr Alun Lenny, cabinet member for resources and local ward representative, highlighted the substantial funding raised for town improvement projects and events. Council leader Darren Price clarified that the cabinet’s discussions were limited to the principle of the BID scheme, with further decisions and conversations to be undertaken by the BID group.
If the BID scheme is extended for another five years, subject to full council approval, an estimated £719,000 would be generated through the levy. The ongoing ballot, which closes on February 27, has garnered varied responses from stakeholders. Former council leader Emlyn Dole, who was previously the council’s representative on Carmarthen BID, lost his seat in the 2022 elections, further complicating the scenario.
Cllr Gareth John, a former cabinet member for regeneration, highlighted the challenges faced by the Carmarthen BID scheme, stressing the importance of collaboration and transparency among businesses for its success. Despite obstacles such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the potential of the BID concept remains promising with the right governance and cooperation. As discussions unfold and decisions loom, the future of Carmarthen BID hangs in the balance, awaiting a mandate from its stakeholders and the council.