BUSINESS PLAN - Ballymena
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Ballymena
BUSINESS
PLAN
BID TERM
1st April 2021 – 31st March 2026
Ballymena
Means Business BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 1
2020 has, without doubt, been one of the most
challenging years I have ever encountered in 35 years
trading in my hometown of Ballymena….and it’s far from
over yet. I’m sure that many of you are feeling the same.
“Unprecedented” quickly became one of the cliché words
of 2020….but there really is no better term to describe
what we have all endured since the onset of the Covid 19
pandemic in March 2020.
Ballymena BID It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the sterling
Business Plan 2021 – 2026 service that continues to be provided by our NHS staff, front
line workers and essential service providers during such
CONTENTS
difficult times. Thank you. As we tread carefully into 2021,
the vaccination programme is well underway. Hopefully we
can all look forward to a new beginning in sight.
The true cost of the Covid 19 pandemic, both socially
and economically, will be immeasurable. As a BID Board
Introduction Page 3 we are keen to continue to push forward, plan for the
future and build upon the firm foundations which have
What is a BID? Page 4 already been laid. We must ensure that Ballymena
recovers from a series of enforced, temporary closures
Covid 19 Support Page 5 and restricted trading in order to remain a destination This business plan belongs to all of us. It’s based on the
of choice for shoppers and visitors alike going forward. feedback we have received and we thank all of you that
Ballymena BID Delivers Page 6 & 7 We can only achieve this with your ongoing support and have taken part in that process. Whilst our plans to go to
commitment to Ballymena BID. ballot were postponed due to Covid-19, we believe that
Listening to You Page 8 the Pandemic has served to reinforce the value of the BID
There are now over 300 successful Business Improvement to support members… both in prosperous and difficult
So What Will BID 2 Deliver? Page 9 times. We know that trading remains really tough for many
Districts throughout the UK. The BID concept is an
businesses, but feel those challenges demonstrate exactly
The BID Area Page 12 established and proven business model. There has never
why we have greater opportunities by working together.
been more need for a mechanism such as BID. It provides
The Levy Page 12 the opportunity to bring all of the businesses within our
town together to facilitate a consensus of ideas, create We were immensely proud that Ballymena led the way by
Budget Forecast Page 13 a well-informed business plan and implement that same becoming the first BID in Northern Ireland. We want you
plan alongside a variety of stakeholders…. including our to support us in order to renew the ballot and be able to
BID Governance & Management Page 14 colleagues at MEABCouncil. We simply cannot afford to continue our good work whilst learning lessons from our
lose our BID. We will continue to work alongside Ballymena first term. Please support us in our collective endeavour
FAQs Page 15 Retailers Against Crime (BRAC) and PSNI to ensure that to continue to make Ballymena an even better place to do
Ballymena remains a clean, safe, attractive and welcoming business and we will have over £1m to invest in the BID area.
BID Rules & Ballot Page 16
location. We will continue to support businesses with
business related training and business networking I’m a huge supporter of the BID model… including the
Measuring Results Page 17 principle of everyone working together for the greater
opportunities as required.
good of the local economy. There will continue to be
What Happens Next? Page 17 challenges ahead. However, I would urge all of you,
Testimonials Page 18 as local business owners, to VOTE YES in favour of
Ballymena BID 2 as we enter a new era in 2021. Together
Get in Touch Page 20 everyone achieves more. The success of the re-ballot in
respect of Ballymena BID is more important than ever
at this challenging time. I genuinely can’t see any better
alternative than the BID model.
Voting papers will be with you in due course. It is
important that you show your support for Ballymena
BID 2 by voting YES!
Thank you.
Chairman, Stephen Reynolds
on behalf of the Ballymena BID Board
2 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 3
A BID is a formal arrangement majority vote YES then a BID comes YES must also represent a greater total
where the businesses in an area into being and everybody pays a small rateable value than those that vote
come together to fund, manage and levy to assist with the implementation NO. Turnout needs to be a minimum of
implement an agreed programme of the BID Business Plan. A BID can last 25% by number and by rateable value.
of actions designed to improve the for a maximum of five years before it
trading environment of the area to the is required to go for a renewal ballot There are currently over 300 BIDs in
benefit of all the businesses within it. in order for it to continue. operation across the UK supporting
The actions are set out in a business our towns and cities, with 8 operating in The Ballymena BID has been instrumental concerns, etc. during phased reopening future positive Ballymena news and
plan that is voted on by all eligible For a successful YES vote, over 50% Northern Ireland. It’s a tried and tested in co-ordinating support for businesses of our town centre… and following the campaigns.
businesses in the BID area and are of businesses that vote must vote in business model. Ballymena BID was the during the COVID crisis and will continue Covid-19 lockdown. • S hop local “influencer” campaign
in addition to those services already favour of the Ballymena BID Renewal first BID in Northern Ireland and has a to do so. Activities have included • S ocial media updates promoting encouraging Ballymena to support local
provided by the local Council. If the Business Plan. The businesses voting led the way in many aspects. local businesses as they reopened in retail and find their Amazon shopping
• R egular email updates on grants Ballymena. basket in Ballymena town.
and news relevant to Ballymena • Launch of a new website in October • Leveraging grants from DFC & MEABC
businesses. 2020 to further support businesses. in order that the BID could extend
• Regular meetings with MEABC to allow • L aunch of Shop to Win Ballymena and continue to support Ballymena
us to share updates with businesses. campaign, to increase spend, steady businesses during the Pandemic.
• R adio, social media and billboard footfall and give back to businesses • Ballymena BID is also part of the Town
campaign to promote “Shop Safe, Shop within the BID area by purchasing Centre Recovery Sub Group & Town
Local, Shop Ballymena.” £20,000 worth of Gift Cards. This Centre Revitalise Sub Group led by
• Support for business owners and store campaign has also strengthened our MEABC to lobby for Ballymena Town
managers who needed a sounding board consumer database by 4,000+ local Centre to aid recovery and revitalisation
about decision making, safety, staff people that we can reach out to with of our town following the Covid crisis.
What Happens if it is a “NO” Vote?
If you do not vote “YES” Key work that will be lost on cleansing and •B u s i n e s s support
then Ballymena BID will includes... enhancement of activities, including
simply cease to exist on Ballymena town centre training and networking
• Over £1m of professional will disappear. opportunities will cease.
31 March 2021. All of
marketing & promotion.
the services such as the
• Car parking and wayfinding
marketing, events and initiatives.
There is NO replacement
promotional activities • Reduction in safety and body that will deliver these
that are funded by the BID security initiatives. services. THERE IS NO “PLAN B.”
will also cease at that time. • A dditional spending
4 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 5
Ballymena BID has operated in a very 1) Marketing, Promotion and Events town centre, at the People’s Park. • T he ballymenameans.com website make the town centre safer and
tough economic climate during its • T he ‘Ballymena Bear’ marketing • The Discount Day has been an annual continues to be popular and provides more welcoming.
first 5 years. According to the Office campaign was a huge success in event and now includes all of Ballymena. regular news, updates and events • T h e R a d i o L i n k S c h e m e
for National Statistics, the Northern conveying the message that ‘Ballymena Additionally, there have been other information. The BID now has over has helped keep businesses
Ireland economy reduced by 5% and means Christmas’ with an effective events and campaigns including 8,500 followers across Social Media connected thereby helping to
the Mid & East Antrim area economic series of Christmas videos which were Midtown Sounds, Christmas Campaigns including Facebook, Instagram and reduce business crime.
output reduced by 10%. This was specifically designed for social media and and competitions, Spring Bank Holiday Twitter accounts. • 4000 cigarette disposal pouches
compounded by major job losses in were picked up by local television news Events and Summer Sounds @The HUB were distributed via retailers.
the area, together with the ongoing stations and local and national press. which have all added to the customer 2) Accessibility • A Crime Reduction guide was
challenges facing national retailers and • The BID liaised with Mid and East Antrim experience. Over the last 5 years our • A ccess to Ballymena was improved compiled, printed and distributed to
the economic impact of the Covid 19 Borough Council (MEABC) to see the All schedule of events has attracted over though the Car Parking initiative. all businesses.
Pandemic during most of the last year. Ireland Pipe Band Championships hosted 50,000 more people into Ballymena Working closely with the MEABC, the •2 50 personal alarms were distributed
in Ballymena. More than 10,000 visitors town centre. BID has helped deliver initiatives such as to retail staff.
However, what the above has demonstrated made up of pipers, drummers, highland • The BID also created the “Ballymena 5 hours parking for £1. • 2 50 UV light, counterfeit note
is the benefit of everyone working together, dancers, drum majors and their families Means” brand aimed at the consumer. detectors distributed to retailers.
adapting and changing. Ballymena led the and supporters descended on Ballymena This has worked well across all social 3) Supporting the Town Businesses
way in becoming the first BID. for a day in the summer of 2019. media platforms which are now well • The BID has helped you save money and 5) Improving the Physical Environment
• Our collaboration with MEABC in Oct established and working efficiently for delivered a return on your investment During the first five year term of
Below we look back at some key 2019 saw the Annual Fireworks Display the town’s traders…. showcasing offers, through access to the Bank of Ireland Ballymena BID we have improved the
achievements during our first term. relocate to a new location, closer to the promotions, updates and events. Smart Card and renewable energy saving physical environment by providing;
schemes. • 24 poster frames which have been
• Free Business Breakfasts were delivered, introduced at various locations in the
in conjunction with the Chamber of town centre.
1% of Commerce, providing levy payers with • A street orderly trolley was introduced
100 information, training and networking
opportunities. These included skills
for improved day to day street cleaning.
• A Vanguard street cleaner purchased for
people’s training programmes in customer additional deeper cleansing.
efforts is service, World Host training and bespoke
business mentoring opportunities.
• O ver 75 seasonal lighting wraps
purchased and installed throughout the
greater than town centre.
4) Safety and Security • 1 6 planters purchased for use throughout
100% of one In partnership with BRAC the following the town centre.
person’s have been provided:
• P ersonnel on the ground including
• 3 large Bear planters purchased to
enhance the town centre.
efforts! “meeters and greeters”, Wardens and an • Hoardings erected to camouflage blank
additional Police presence has helped to sites and derelict properties
BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 7
6 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 7
MARKETING &
PROMOTION
75%
SAFE, CLEAN &
WELCOMING
consultation with local businesses.
• November – December 2020- “Shop to
Win” Ballymena…. our £20,000 Giveaway
15%
Campaign.
• April 2020 – January 2021 - Ongoing
discussions with the Board. The BID BUSINESS
Board is made up of Directors from BID
levy-paying businesses and the public SUPPORT
10%
agencies.
• January – February 2021-Full Business
Plan produced and distributed
Primarily, you have told us to concentrate
most of the BIDS’s resources on the
marketing and promotion of the town
We have considered carefully all of your support and recovery work in relation and your respective businesses. We
comments, suggestions and feedback to COVID. The BID renewal process is will do this by investing 75% of the
going forward for a second term. In subsequently delayed. budget in this area over the next five
addition to our usual newsletters and • June/July – BID staff on the ground years. The events programme is likely
regular contact with businesses we have working closely with MEABC staff to to be be reduced in line with ongoing
undertaken specific consultation and welcome traders and shoppers alike back Covid-19 restrictions. However, as
engagement with regard to renewing in to Ballymena town centre following restrictions ease, marketing and event
the BID that has included: prolonged lockdown for many. £24,000 planning will recommence stronger than
additional funding secured by Ballymena ever. We will retain and build upon our
• F ebruary 2020 – Achievements BID from Dept. for Communities (DFC) Annual Discount Day which continues to
Newsletter & Renewal Survey sent to all to assist with Ballymena’s Economic successfully deliver strong footfall into
businesses. Recovery Plan. the town. The marketing function will
• E arly March 2020 – Face to face • August 2020 - Renewal Newsletter sent be professionalised and we will ensure
consultation with businesses. to all businesses. the team have the skills set that is needed
• Late March 2020 - UK hit by COVID • September 2020 – Three draft business to deliver a marketing plan with clear
19 pandemic and subsequently goes plan workshops held. objectives and constructive evaluation to
into lockdown. Ballymena BID delivers • October 2020-Further face to face ensure that we are delivering real value.
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It’s not
what
happens to our
local economy…
it’s how we
respond to what
happens!
SAFE & WELCOMING
MARKETING
• We will utilise Influencer Marketing
by partnering with local agents to aid
campaigns and promote the town as Your feedback indicates that there
a whole. By working with partners we
& PROMOTION
are aspects of our work, in making
will be able to create engaging content Ballymena a safe and welcoming place
which will appeal to a local following. to be, that you wish to see us continue.
• Where appropriate, and cost effective, • By working with the local Police
we will use strategic outdoor advertising Service of Northern Ireland, and
including adshels and billboards to individual businesses, we will promote
capture a wider audience and promote safety and reduce crime. This will be
Your feedback had indicated that you want •T here will be a further upgrade to the new Ballymena….including events like our detailed in a Crime Strategy that will
BID to concentrate most of the BIDS’s website to include a comprehensive and annual Discount Day. be developed with relevant partners.
resources on the Marketing and Promotion categorised Business Directory including • O ur PR work will be enhanced by • Work towards a cleaner environment
of the town and your businesses. We will direct links to individual businesses. working with local press, television and for shoppers and workers to enjoy. This
do this by investing 75% of the budget in There will be a strong focus on Search radio stations to promote all that we do. will be achieved through enhanced
this project over the next five years. And Engine Optimisation to ensure that we • Discount Day will continue with a focus litter and waste management by
are as effective as we can possibly be on increasing footfall and improving working with partners and continuing
of course, we look forward to the return of
with the opportunity for sign-ups and dwell time….thereby increasing spend to use the Vanguard street cleaning
Ballymena’s Annual Discount Day in 2021
email marketing. per visit. machine that was purchased during
alongside many other campaigns and
• Social Media, particularly Facebook and the first term of the BID.
events to promote our town.
Instagram, have shown the strongest All of our marketing will be measured using • There are areas in the town centre
growth and engagement over the last the online resources available to us and where lighting could be used more
The marketing function will be couple of years. It will be expanded we will report the results back to you on a effectively to create ambience
professionalised and we will ensure the and used alongside any other relevant regular basis. Examples of the online tools or to enhance security. We will
team have the skills set that is needed platform to promote Ballymena as the that we will use to monitor and measure develop a plan and install lighting as
to deliver a marketing plan with clear ‘go to’ destination to shop and spend success will include; social media insights, appropriate.
objectives and constructive evaluation to leisure time. We will also promote Google analytics, listener and viewer
ensure that we are delivering real value. individual businesses, their offering, numbers provided by media outlets and
events and news stories. Levy payers will customer and business feedback. We will
We will develop a strong and more be able to advertise via all social media also continue to monitor footfall figures
comprehensive digital offering. platforms free of charge. and introduce a spend analysis measure.
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Business Support still remains an important and effective relationships with partners,
function of the BID. We will support you, the including Mid and East Antrim Borough
businesses, by lobbying for the changes you Council, central government bodies, the
request, investment and support. This will Chamber of Commerce, PSNI and Translink.
be achieved through maintaining strong Communication is key and we will ensure
you receive business information, updates,
news and support in a frequent, focused and
effective manner. Our key objectives are:
• To act as a powerful voice for business
on operational matters.
•L ever any additional funding related to
COVID 19 recovery.
• Influence strategy and policies in relation
to the changing nature of Ballymena
town centre.
10 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 11
BALLYMENA BID: INCOME
& EXPENDITURE FORECAST
PROJECTED 2021/2022 2022/2023 2023/2024 2024/2025 2025/2026
Income/Levy £200,000 £200,000 £200,000 £200,000 £200,000
THE BID AREA
The Bid area will be stronger, with Additional Income £15,000 £15,000 £15,000 £15,000 £15,000
direct links to our transportation
network, which will help to improve
TOTAL £215,000 £215,000 £215,000 £215,000 £215,000
our destination marketing.
Projected Income: £1,075,000
The map shows
the proposed
Ballymena BID EXPENDITURE Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
area.
Streets Marketing, Promotions
£112,500 £112,500 £112,500 £112,500 £112,500
& Events
included within
the BID area:
*Safety, Cleaning,
Alexander Street Welcoming & Business £37,500 £37,500 £37,500 £37,500 £37,500
Ballymoney Street Support
Bridge Street
* This fund will be prioritised on what will be most beneficial to businesses at the time.
Broadway Avenue
Broughshane Street Staff £45,000 £45,000 £45,000 £45,000 £45,000
Bryan Street
Castle Street Office & IT Support £5,500 £5,500 £5,500 £5,500 £5,500
(part of)
Church Street Insurance £1,200 £1,200 £1,200 £1,200 £1,200
Church Street
Arcade Levy Collection £6,600 £6,600 £6,600 £6,600 £6,600
Duke Street
Fairhill Lane Professional Fees £1,300 £1,300 £1,300 £1,300 £1,300
Fountain Place
Galgorm Road Bank Charges £400 £400 £400 £400 £400
Galgorm Street
Garfeld Place Contingency £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 £5,000
George Street
SUB TOTAL £65,000 £65,000 £65,000 £65,000 £65,000
Greenvale Street John Street Mount Street Pentagon Retail Park Thomas Street
High Street Linenhall Street Parkway Springwell Street Wellington Court NOTE: Additional income is estimated based on a current agreement with Mid & East Antrim Borough Council and is subject to
Hill Street Mill Street Pats Brae Suffolk Street Wellington Street change. The BID will lobby for additional funding as opportunities arise, throughout BID 1 over £150,000 of additional funding was
secured for Ballymena Town Centre. Income is a projection and could be a higher or lower amount.
THE BID LEVY The BID company will be accountable membership scheme for businesses in
for every pound it receives or generates. the BID area with a rateable value of
Ballymena BID will be financed through less than £5,000. This will enable them
to invest and share in the benefits of the
a 1.75% annual levy based on the
rateable value of your business. The
ADDITIONAL INCOME BID. A board position can be allocated
levy will apply to all business rates for voluntary contributors who are
In its first term from 2015–2020, members of the BID Company.
payers with a rateable value of £5,000
Ballymena BID generated £150,000
or more.
in additional income through outside The BID can also seek additional
Over the five-year term, it will therefore grants from Mid and East Antrim income, grants and project match
result in an investment of over £1M Borough Council and UK Government. funding to deliver further value for
into business in Ballymena. The levy We expect to raise a similar amount for money. In addition, the BID potentially
is an investment. In return for your this 5year term. has the power to run commercial
investment your business benefits from services or other income generating
additional projects and services. The BID will also run a voluntary activities.
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BID GOVERNANCE
Stephen
& MANAGEMENT
MEET THE BID BOARD
Reynolds
Chair
Front Page Bar
Is this just another tax
Q
How much will I pay?
A
Andy Hugh Ken Crawford Emma Natalie Stephen Audrey Richard and will it substitute
F
Storey Black Treasurer McCrea Jackson Glasgow Wales MBE McLoughlin for those services that
Vice Chair Secretary BID Manager
Boots Tower Centre
McCartney &
Crawford Consultant
Fairhill Shopping
Centre
Camerons MEABC Wyse Byse
MEABC is responsible
for providing? MEABC will collect a levy, on behalf of
Ballymena BID, from each BID business
within the Bid area. That revenue will
be transferred to the BID Company
A BID cannot replace or substitute and used to implement the projects
public agency services i.e. those laid out in this plan. BID businesses
covered by your business rates. will pay 1.75% of their rateable value.
MEABC, along with the PSNI, have This is collected annually. Those
provided baseline agreements as below £5,000 in rateable value will
Thomas Killian Roy Carole Agnes Tom Wiggins Gail Trevor Parker
McKillen Connolly Smyth McKenna Doyle Kelly BRAC part of the BID renewal for both its be formally exempt.
Ballymena
statutory and discretionary services.
McKillen’s Shoes Marks & Spencers Outdoor The Grouse Menarys Chamber of
Commerce MEABC Ballymena Retailers The BID has been running
Adventure Against Crime These can be viewed on request and
for 5 years. Why can’t it include the following:
just continue? My business is not a
The Ballymena BID Board is a private THE BID BOARD • Cleansing and maintenance part of the BID area.
sector led, not-for profit company, limited
by guarantee and has, for the last 5 years, The BID Board is currently comprised of the following members: • Car Parking Can I still take part?
been governed by a board comprising of • CCTV
BOARD MEMBERS BID terms last for a maximum of 5 • Tourism
BID levy payers or equivalent voluntary
financial contributors, local authority Stephen Reynolds Chair The Front Page years. Once that term is over the • Markets
members and co-opted members. BID is legally required to review its • Festivals and Events Yes. Any businesses that are formally
Andy Storey Vice Chair Boots
projects, produce a new Business • Street Furniture exempt from paying the BID levy, or
Hugh Black Secretary Tower Centre Plan stating its objectives for the next • Street Lighting
BID Board positions are voluntary and not in the BID area, can contribute
unpaid. The Board includes a mix of all Ken Crawford Treasurer McCartney & Crawford 5 years. The plan is then voted on by • Planting and Landscaping voluntarily. If you choose to support
sectors of business that operate within the BID businesses that will be required to • Public Conveniences the BID in this way, you have
Killian Connolly M&S
BID area which brings all the necessary pay the levy. This procedure is known • Highways and Roads exactly the same rights, in terms of
Natalie Jackson Fairhill Shopping Centre as a renewal ballot. • Policing
skills required to navigate the BID through governance and management of
its second term. Richard McLoughlin WyseByse the company as any other business.
Roy Smith Outdoor Adventure To discuss voluntary contributions
All Board positions will be voted on Stephen Glasgow Camerons please contact the BID Team using the
through an election process in Year 1 of a contact details on the last page.
second BID term. Invitations will go out to Thomas McKillen McKillens Shoes
all BID businesses and voluntary financial Audrey Wales MEABC
contributors to become members of Agnes Doyle Menarys
the Ballymena BID Company (a legal When will the second
Carole McKenna The Grouse mandate projects begin
requirement). This entitles levy payers
to stand for board positions and vote on
ADVISORS
to be delivered?
company business.
Tom Wiggins Chamber
A vote will take place of all Company Trevor Parker BRAC
members to then determine the new The first term of the BID is due to
Gail Kelly MEABC
BID Board. Directors will be required end on 31 March 2021 The new term
to commit to attend meetings and will then start to be rolled-out from
contribute to the running of the BID. The Ballymena BID will, where possible, have the following Board composition:
1st April 2021. If the renewal ballot
Board membership will be reviewed once National and Independent Retail .......... 9 Commercial and Office ........................... 1 is unsuccessful, then all BID services
a year. However, applications of interest Pubs and Restaurants ............................. 1 will be cease immediately at the end
Entertainment, Hospitality
can be received, and new Directors of the first term.
appointed by the Board, at any time and Leisure ................................................ 1 Education, Health and Third Sector ..... 1
during the BID term. Public Sector ............................................. 1 Voluntary Contributors .......................... 1
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BID RULES & BALLOT
The BID legislation regulates BID ballots
and the framework under which BIDs
rateable value, at the time they enter the
rating list.
MEASURING RESULTS
must operate. • If a business ratepayer occupies the
premises for less than one year, then
The BID Ballot the BID levy due will be calculated on a
• Each business ratepayer that would be pro-rata basis.
liable for the BID levy will have one vote for • Vacant properties, or those undergoing
each of their eligible properties, provided refurbishment or being demolished,
they are listed on the non-domestic rates will be liable to pay the BID levy by the
list as provided by Land and Property property owner or registered business
Services on 15th January 2021. ratepayer.
• None of the costs incurred through the • The BID levy will not be affected by
development of the BID and before the the small business rate relief scheme,
formal ballot will be paid for by the BID exemptions, reliefs or discount periods
levy. provided for in the Rates (Northern
until 5pm on 30th March 2021 to
• The BID levy rate will be fixed for the full Ireland) Order 1977 and subsequent
vote. The ballot will be carried out
term of the BID, which is five years, and will secondary legislation thereunder.
independently by the Returning Officer,
not be subject to inflation or alterations. • The BID Levy will not be affected by
via Civica Election Services. Businesses
service charges paid to landlords.
occupying more than one eligible
The BID Levy….and who pays? • VAT will not be charged on the BID levy. property will be sent one ballot paper
• T he BID levy will be applied to all per property. If you receive multiple
businesses within the defined area with BID Operations and Management Throughout its first term, Ballymena • New Business Activity ballot papers please complete all of
a rateable value of or exceeding £5,000, • The Billing Body is authorised to collect BID has kept BID businesses up to date • Annual Surveys them. The ballot will be carried out via
provided they are listed on the non- the BID levy on behalf of the BID with all BID activity on a regular basis • Business Feedback post. Voting by proxy is available. Full
domestic rates schedule as provided Company. by way of emails, newsletters, face-to- • Consumer Feedback details will be sent out in due course.
by Land and Property Services. The •C ollection and enforcement regulations face meetings, annual meetings and • Media Coverage
following will be exempt from paying will be in line with those applied to non- • The BID Company will produce a set surveys. As a BID business, you will • Website/Social Media Interactions. • Notice of Ballot – 9th February 2021
the levy: domestic business rates, with the BID of annual accounts which will be made be kept up to date on all the projects • Renewal Business Plan – Distributed
Board of Directors responsible for any available to all company members. that the BID will implement in its WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? by 1st February 2021
1. Organisations with a rateable value of debt write-off. • BID staff will be appointed, will be based second term in order to demonstrate
The BID ballot will take place from • Postal Ballot Commences – 16th
below £5,000. • The BID funding will be kept in a separate in Ballymena town centre and will work to you that BID is delivering against
16th February 2021 and you will have February 2021
2. Religious organisations, with non- BID Revenue Account and transferred to with the appropriate agencies to deliver its objectives. • Ballot Closes – 30th March 2021
trading operations, will be exempt the BID Company. the programme of projects.
• Declaration of Ballot Results – 31st
from paying the BID levy. • BID projects, costs and timescales may • The BID will last for a duration of five The board will set the key performance
3. Non-retail charities with no trading be altered by the BID Board of Directors, years. At the end of the five years, a ballot indicators (KPIs) and criteria upon which
DON’T March 2021
income, arm or facilities will be provided they remain in line with the must be held if businesses wish for the to measure the BID’s performance. ALLOW THIS If the result of the ballot is NO, then
exempt from paying the BID levy. overall BID objectives. BID to continue. Examples of the criteria the BID will TO HAPPEN. Ensure all activity provided by the Ballymena
4. Entirely subscription and volunteer- • The BID Board of Directors use include:
based organisations will be exempt will meet at least six times
that Ballymena BID will cease on 31 March 2021.
There will be no marketing, no
from paying the BID levy. a year. Every levy paying • Footfall Figures Means Business and website, no social media, no
• The minimum BID Levy amount will be business will be eligible to • Vacancy Levels please vote YES! business support, no enhanced
£87.50 per annum. be a member of the BID • Car Park Usage cleaning and there will be reduced
• New businesses will be charged from Company and to vote at safety and crime reduction activity.
the point of occupation, based upon the annual general meetings.
There will be no single organisation
in Ballymena town centre which is
championing and representing all
businesses. As local businesses you will
lose your collective voice. Ballymena
businesses will immediately stand to
lose over £1m of investment to be
spent on projects identified by you over
the period 2021 – 2026.
GET IN TOUCH
For more information about the Ballymena BID
please contact us using the following details:
Emma McCrea – Interim Manager, Ballymena BID
E: bidsmanager@ballymenabid.com
M: 078 8544 0296 or 078 5413 3310
Or visit our website: wwwballymenameans.com
16 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 17
BALLYMENA BID Having a BID in Ballymena in these challenging times gives us a much greater edge over
other towns to drive footfall and sales to the town.
RUN BY LOCAL BUSINESSES The focus of BID 2 will be to reinvigorate the town centre in the months and years
to come and it’s substantial marketing and promotions budget will be great catalyst
FOR THE BENEFIT OF to help this.
LOCAL BUSINESSES
BID also is a fantastic forum representing the town centre businesses when working in
partnership with MAEAC, PSNI and other stakeholders.
If BID2 is not successful in getting through its re-ballot none of the above will happen
so please make sure you make your vote a YES!
Working in Ballymena town centre for
the past two years has really opened my HUGH BLACK | Tower Centre
eyes. Ballymena is unlike any other town
I’ve previously worked in across Northern
Ireland. The people, the unique mix of
familiar High Street names, combined
with long established independent retailers As President of Ballymena Chamber
and the strong local business community of Commerce I have worked closely
makes Ballymena a very special place with the BID team and have seen, first
to visit, to work and to shop. There’s no hand, how they are doing a great job…
doubt the past year has been a struggle for working with traders and stakeholders
As a Ballymena trader of 35 years, alike in an effort to support businesses
all of us, both personally and in business.
i believe that the Ballymena BID and boost Ballymena town centre as a
The role of the Ballymena BID is more
will play a more important role retail and hospitality destination. I fully
important now than ever during such
than ever in assisting with the support Ballymena BID 2. As a town, we
challenging times. We need to work hard
ongoing recovery process for all need to work together, even more
to reach out and open everyone’s eyes to
our town centre during these so during these challenging times, to
our amazing town and unique offering. The plans in place for the next 5 years
challenging times. ensure that plans are in place for the
are strong, with a great focus on marketing to boost local business. Let’s recover
together, work together and remind everyone that Ballymena is still the No. 1 success of our future.
destination for shopping in Northern Ireland. STEPHEN REYNOLDS
Front Page Bar Ballymena BID has been one of EUGENE REID | Chamber President
EMMA McCREA | Bid Manager the success stories of the past 5
years for our business community.
If we are to make any headway in
attracting both customers and If you believe that it is the traders of
new businesses to Ballymena, we
Ballymena that know what is the best for
need the cohesive approach that
WE CANNOT AFFORD TO BE the BID brings. Working together in
partnership we will always achieve
our town then you need to support a 2nd
Ballymena Business Improvement District.
LEFT BEHIND AS OTHER BID’S more success. It is true that the sum
A BID gives Ballymena a competitive edge
over other towns.
BECOME STRONGER AND PULL of the whole is greater than the sum
of the individual parts.
TRADE AWAY FROM BALLYMENA! We cannot afford to pull out and
It allows the traders of Ballymena
to promote the town centre and its
be left behind as other and more businesses driving footfall creating a safe
BID’s become stronger and pull and welcoming environment for shoppers.
trade away from Ballymena! Together we have a greater voice! Take the
BID away and we are all on our own.
BID continues to allow partnerships with
other Government bodies, council etc to THOMAS McKILLEN
leverage additional funding. Managing Director ANDREW STOREY
McKillens of Ballymena Boots Manager Ballymena
BID helps with access to Ministers and Civil
Servants who normally can’t meet with
private individuals. I strongly feel that in these
very difficult trading times the My experience of BID has been very positive, especially how the businesses have worked
BID ensures direction of travel is inline with advantages that a further 5-year together to set local priorities and actions and run high profile, co-ordinated events. Not
what stakeholders require. term of BID will bring is extremely only has this approach helped to improve the look of the town centre, but it has raised
important for the whole town its profile and contributed significantly to economic growth.
Without BID we have more to lose than going forward as one unit. We need
ever, we have built up relationships with a united front to put out a strong More than ever, BID is crucial to influence strategic planning and investment as well as
main traders and independents and have marketing strategy to encourage continue to build on the work that has already been done. The economic benefits of
gained insights to where we can be of more benefit in the future. as many shoppers to Ballymena as BID to date have been felt across the area and have improved our town… not just the
possible. individual businesses. We cannot lose this support and direction at a time when the
We offer a true voice of Ballymena, and our towns bright future, together stronger. majority of businesses are trying to survive, never mind innovate and develop.
RICHARD McLOUGHLIN
ROY SMYTH | Outdoor Adventure Wyse Byse CAROLE McKENNA | The Grouse
18 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 19The long-standing Throughout the Covid-19
relationship between pandemic, our retailers in Ballymena
Mid and East Antrim have shown their resilience,
Borough Council determination and passion for
and Ballymena BID their town, despite being faced
has never been as by the most challenging trading
important as we look conditions imaginable.
t o w a rd s b u i l d i n g
back a sustainable The key role they play at the heart
and successful town of our communities has never been
centre economy. more apparent.
Throughout the Not only do our shop owners and business leaders provide essential
COVID-19 emergency, services to our residents, many are our friends, our family – familiar
our retailers have faces and names rooted into the fabric of our town.
demonstrated true
resilience and resourcefulness in the face of the As we look to a brighter future, free from Covid-19, it is critical we
many challenges which have arisen. all support our local retailers, as they have supported us, and as a
Council, we will continue to do everything we can to help them in
With light on the horizon, we at Council will their recovery and regrowth following these unprecedented times.
continue to do all we can to support Ballymena
BID in their efforts to grow and develop the As it has been since its inception, the Ballymena Improvement
unique shopping offering the town is famous for. District will be firmly at the side of our traders, working around the
clock to build on our proud reputation as Northern Ireland’s best
Our businesses in Ballymena have provided shopping town.
employment, essential supplies and a sense
of community in spite of the toughest I commend the BID for its continued commitment to our businesses,
circumstances, and they can be assured of the our town and our Borough, and I extend my best wishes ahead of
continued backing of Council in the times ahead. the forthcoming re-ballot.
COUNCILLOR PETER JOHNSTON ANNE DONAGHY OBE
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Chief Executive, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council
FOR
Ballymena BID 2
Together everyone
achieves MORE!
Ballymena
GET IN TOUCH
For more information about the Ballymena BID
please contact us using the following details:
Emma McCrea – Interim Manager, Ballymena BID
Means Business
E: bidsmanager@ballymenabid.com
M: 078 8544 0296 or 078 5413 3310
Or visit our website: wwwballymenameans.comYou can also read
