09.
THE BALLOT – USING YOUR VOTE
We have been based in Fitzrovia for nearly 100 years. We fully support the BID proposals and look forward to the strong combination of the BID and the Neighbourhood Forum. 
Steve Ford, Campus Services Manager
University of Westminster
A successful BID must have ‘buy-in’ from the majority of those businesses who will finance it – both for a successful vote and also to ensure the organisation evolves in a positive environment.
Governed by government legislation and regulations, BIDs are statutorily established once voted for by the majority of businesses in an area and have a maximum term of five years before returning to their electorate for renewal. Once a majority vote has been achieved, a BID levy becomes mandatory on all defined ratepayers.
For a BID to be introduced, the ballot of business must meet two conditions: a majority in number of those voting and a majority in proportion of rateable value of those voting. The BID levy is then applicable to all eligible businesses.
When the majority of eligible businesses vote to establish a Business Improvement District, they create a legal vehicle and give it legitimacy as the voice of local businesses.
Throughout the UK, this combination has proved a powerful force for delivery of change.
VOTING PROCEDURES
From October 2023, you will be given the opportunity to vote on this business proposal for the creation of the West Fitzrovia BID.
To ensure neutrality, the BID ballot will be administered by the Council’s Returning Officer and Electoral Services staff. It will be arranged in line with the rules set out in the BID regulations (2004) as approved by Parliament.
Suggested dates:
- Ballot paper to be distributed on Monday 2 October 2023
- Close of ballot Tuesday 31 October
- Results Wednesday 1 November 2023
All eligible businesses will be entitled to one vote per hereditament. Some businesses occupying more than one hereditament within the area will therefore be entitled to more than one vote.
To discuss this document in more detail please call 020 3146 4260 to speak to Zack Thompson (zack.thompson@fitzroviapartnership.com)
Full ballot arrangements are available at westfitzrovia.com.
The BID is your opportunity to have an influential voice and implement changes that will positively affect your business and help us all to promote a thriving Fitzrovia.
Working together with our partners and our local communities, we can ensure that Fitzrovia remains a vibrant, viable and sustainable area which works for businesses and residents and of which everyone can be proud.
Thank you for your continued support