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Bristol Businesses to be consulted on ‘One City – One Vision’ BID model
Bristol’s Business Improvement District (BID) structure is set to undergo a “landmark” transformation where three BIDs to be unified to amplify their efforts in representing the interests of local businesses.
With an investment of approximately £17 million over five years, the proposed Bristol BID aims to unite the existing Bristol City Centre BID, Redcliffe & Temple BID, and Broadmead BID under the banner of “one vision”, to strengthen Bristol’s “economic vitality and reputation”.
If approved by businesses, the new BID will officially launch in November 2025.
The BID structure has enjoyed a successful legacy of nearly two decades as it acted as a single point of contact in representing the interests of levy-paying businesses, leveraging investment and influencing city strategies.
Enhanced crime prevention measures through greater resources for security rangers and expanded partnerships with street pastors are expected to create a safer and more compassionate city for all – photo: Bristol BID
The proposed BID builds on a shared mission to create a unified, thriving city. The initiative will streamline resources, boost investment, and amplify the collective voice of over 1,000 businesses, similar to the operating model of other major UK cities including Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester, and Newcastle.
The consolidation of the three BIDs will formalise existing successful collaborations such as the Bristol Light Festival, TAP for Bristol, and the Business Crime Reduction Partnership.
By pooling resources, the new BID will enhance city-wide projects, extend initiatives to more areas, and ensure a consistent delivery of services.
Vicky Lee, director of Bristol City Centre BID, said: “This is a vital investment in the future of our city. The additional funds will enable us to deliver more value through impactful projects that create a cleaner, safer and more vibrant city for everyone.
“By coming together, we ensure that every business – large or small – reaps the rewards of a thriving, prosperous Bristol.”
The new Bristol BID will focus on four core delivery themes, each designed to benefit businesses, residents and visitors.
Under “Experiences & Promotion”, the unified BID will expand successful initiatives like the Bristol Light Festival, which attracted over 275,000 visitors in 2024. It will also introduce a new Bristol Shopping website, increase investment in the nighttime economy, and strengthen partnerships for national campaigns and the city’s iconic festivals.
The consolidation of the three BIDs will formalise existing successful collaborations such as the Bristol Light Festival – photo: Rob Browne
Turning on to “Safe & Supported Communities”, it will expand existing initiatives like the Business Crime Reduction Partnership and introduce new roles, including a Youth Services Officer and a nighttime safe space. Enhanced crime prevention measures through greater resources for security rangers and expanded partnerships with street pastors, Bristol Nights, and TAP for Bristol will create a safer and more compassionate city for all.
In a bid to create a “Clean & Welcoming” city, it will see dedicated cleansing teams extend graffiti removal and jet washing services to new areas. The proposals include enhancing the city’s welcome and arrival, improving visitor information, and investing in public art to create a better city experience. Seasonal initiatives like Winter Lights will also be expanded to key areas.
On “Sustainable & Green” issues, the restructured BID will focus on increased investment to cement its role in leading the way in sustainability.
The restructured BID will focus on increased investment to cement its role in leading the way in sustainability photo: Chris Cooper/ ShotAway/
This will involve undertaking large-scale greening projects, establishing new green spaces, and supporting sustainable travel options including the popular Dr Bike scheme. An expanded climate action programme and initiatives to reduce single-use materials will also position Bristol as a forward-thinking city.
Vivienne Kennedy, director of Broadmead BID, said: “This unified Bristol BID is about maximising our impact and strategically investing in the city’s future.
“By consolidating efforts, we can leverage our combined resources to elevate projects like the Bristol Light Festival and enhance the visitor experience, while driving footfall and economic growth across the city.”
Bristol City Centre and Redcliffe & Temple Business Improvement Districts (BID) have recently distributed £20,000 from their TAP for Bristol initiative to three local charities – photo: Bristol BID
By unifying the three BIDs and expanding the footprint, the proposed new Bristol BID will increase investment from £11 million to approximately £17 million over five years.
This aims to boost the city’s capacity to deliver high-impact projects that drive business growth, enhance public spaces, and elevate visitor experiences. This new approach unlocks over £500,000 in savings, creating a more efficient and cost-effective model to reinvest in city initiatives.
The BID is consulting on two levy options of 1.75 per cent and 1.9 per cent, with only businesses with a rateable value of £30,000 or more paying the levy. This proposal will generate essential funds to support a wide range of projects, ensuring greater value for all contributors. The new BID will also consult on expansions to the current boundaries to include more businesses in the city centre.
Steve Bluff, director of Redcliffe & Temple BID, said: “The proposed Bristol BID is a strategic move that will unlock new potential for our city.
“It allows us to streamline resources, reduce duplication and create a more powerful voice for businesses. By working collectively, we can address challenges more effectively and deliver greater value for all those that work, visit and live in the city.”
After the success of 2023, Bristol Cocktail Weekend returned to multiple venues in the city centre in September – photo: Bristol BID
Consultations with businesses are currently underway, providing opportunities for feedback to direct the BID’s business plan. A formal ballot is scheduled for June 2025, with the new BID set to launch on 1 November 2025, should the vote pass.
For further information or to share feedback, visit www.bristolcitycentrebid/docs/bristol.com
Main photo:Bristol BID
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