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In a significant development for Bedford's business community, the Borough Council has announced its decision to vote against the renewal of BedfordBID in the upcoming October ballot. This move comes after the council expressed dissatisfaction with BedfordBID's proposal for a fifth term, citing concerns over its ambition, support for independent businesses, and governance arrangements.
Criticism and Calls for Change
The council's decision highlights growing tensions between local authorities and the Business Improvement District. Critics, including local campaigner Tim Edwards, have called for changes in BedfordBID's leadership and approach. Meanwhile, BedfordBID's CEO, Christina Rowe, has indicated openness to governance reforms while defending the organization's support for small businesses.
Council's Concerns and Decision
Bedford Borough Council has announced its decision to vote against the renewal of BedfordBID in the upcoming October ballot. The council expressed dissatisfaction with BedfordBID's proposal for a fifth term, citing several key concerns.
A report put forward by Cllr Andrea Spice, the portfolio holder for economic growth, planning and prosperity, highlighted three main issues:
1. The BID proposals lack ambition for revitalising the town center and simply propose to deliver more of the same.
2. The proposals do not extend far enough in relation to the town's large number of smaller, independent businesses.
3. There are concerns about the effectiveness and robustness of BedfordBID's governance arrangements.
Despite these criticisms, Cllr Spice emphasised that the council's decision was not intended to influence others. She stated, "This is the decision that we are making, or the recommendation that we are making, for the council's vote." The councillor also encouraged all levy payers to participate in the ballot, regardless of how they choose to vote.
Campaigner's Perspective
Local campaigner Tim Edwards, who established the A Better Bid for Bedford campaign, attended the council meeting. Edwards believes that while a BID can benefit the town if run properly, changes in leadership are necessary. He argues that the current chair, who has been in place for nine years, should step aside to allow for fresh ideas.
Speaking after the meeting, Edwards reiterated his position: "We have tried to put pressure on BedfordBID to make changes in its working practices and personnel to demonstrate that it understands the concerns of our businesses and is capable of changing to better support our town."
BedfordBID's Response
While BedfordBID has not directly responded to criticisms about its management and business plan, CEO Christina Rowe sent an email to the Council's executive suggesting openness to governance changes. Rowe wrote, "After nearly twenty years of delivery for Bedford we recognise that diligence in respect of Governance (sic) and may benefit from a refresh though we cannot imagine that qualifies as a reason to 'throw the BID out with the bathwater'."
Rowe also rejected claims that BedfordBID neglects smaller, independent businesses, stating that such arguments are "groundless and misinformed."
Ballot Process and Implications
The upcoming ballot will determine whether BedfordBID continues for a fifth term. For the BID to be renewed, it must secure both a majority of votes cast and a majority of the total rateable value represented by those votes.
If the BedfordBID ballot results in renewal, the council will be required to pay annual BID levies of approximately £39,000, based on current assessments and rateable values. Additionally, the council, as the billing authority, will charge the BID Revenue Account for the cost of collecting the BID levy, estimated at £15,000 per year.
The Executive agreed to the recommendations put forward, including voting against the BedfordBID proposal and delegating authority to cast votes on behalf of the Council to the chief officer for planning, infrastructure & economic growth.
Governance and Accountability
The council's concerns about BedfordBID's governance arrangements bring to light the importance of transparency and effective management in organisations that wield significant influence over local economic policies. This critique may prompt other BIDs across the country to reassess their own structures and practices.
Christina Rowe's acknowledgment of potential governance reforms suggests a willingness to adapt. However, the extent of these changes and whether they will be sufficient to address the council's concerns remains to be seen.
The Road Ahead
As the October ballot approaches, Bedford's business community faces a critical decision. The outcome will not only determine the fate of BedfordBID but also set the tone for future economic development initiatives in the town.
The council's decision to vote against renewal, while explicitly not intended to sway others, may nonetheless influence the broader conversation. It encourages levy payers to carefully consider their options and actively participate in shaping Bedford's economic future.
Regardless of the ballot's outcome, this situation highlights the need for ongoing dialogue between local authorities, business organisations, and the community. It underscores the importance of adaptability and responsiveness in addressing the evolving needs of a town center in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
