Issue - meetings

[Report of the Director for Regeneration. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Social Inclusion & Sustainability]The Cabinet decision will be:
1)  to note the contents of the proposed Wood Green Business Improvement District (BID)  business plan
2) to approve the recommendation to commence a Business Improvement District (BID)  Ballot
3) to commit to support this Business Improvement District (BID)  at Ballot Stage

The Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Social Inclusion and Sustainability introduced the report which set out the proposal to set up a Business Improvement District (BID) in Wood Green. This was an initiative developed and led by businesses in Wood Green, aimed at revitalising Wood Green Town Centre. This decision had come about as result of the success of other BIDs in London. If it succeeded in achieving its proposed objectives, it would make a positive contribution to business growth in Haringey and as such be an integral part of the wider Wood Green Regeneration Programme. BIDs across the UK had been proven to be useful vehicles to bring about improvements to struggling business districts. A BID in Wood Green would be a statement of intent that the local authority was supporting local businesses in their endeavour to improve their businesses.

There was a healthy level of appetite and support for a BID amongst Businesses in Wood Green.

As per ‘Business Improvement Districts (England) Regulations 2004’ the Council was obliged to respond to the request of the BID proposer- Wood Green BID Steering Group and support them in their attempt to set up the BID. As the Council occupies premises as a ratepayer in the proposed BID area, it would also be entitled to vote.

Membership of a BID in Wood Green would allow businesses to come together and forge a strong partnership, collective voice and influence the development of the area and benefit from joint investment and procurement exercises.

In response to a question from Councillor Engert, it was noted that the BID was a first step to support businesses in Wood Green. The basic partnership led services such as responding to crime and anti-social behaviour, and improved cleanliness were not being fully delivered as Partners had also incurred government reductions in funding. The Wood Green BID would be owned and led by local businesses, addressing issues and concerns as well as creating opportunities for cost saving and capacity building exercises.

The Cabinet Member outlined that business have to be comfortable with the BID and feel that it allows them to be able respond to changing circumstances in Wood Green. If a more fully pedestrianised area was wanted by residents and businesses, then this could be taken forward. However, the decision, before Cabinet was to agree the consultation on the BID, and this type of decision making could come forward much later, once the BID was established and working.

RESOLVED

1.            To endorse the Wood Green BID Proposals, formally submitted by the Wood Green BID Steering Group in accordance with the BID Legislation.

2. To note that the Wood Green BID Proposals do not conflict with any formally adopted or published policies of the Council.

3. To instruct the Returning Officer to hold a BID Ballot in relation to the Wood Green BID Proposals aiming to hold the ballot on 1^st March 2018.

4. To agree to delegate authority to the Director of Regeneration to vote ‘yes’ on behalf of the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 88