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Businesses in Bedford voted Yes to another term of the BedfordBID which helps to promote the town centre and keeps people “buying local”.

Following a month long ballot period businesses voted Yes and ensured another five years of investment in the town centre by those businesses which are based there. Some £500,000 a year will be collected in legal levy payments and at least a further £100,000 a year will be received in voluntary contributions and other income, giving the BID £600,000 to spend in promoting Bedford and ensuring customers have a good experience - including help from the town centre Bluecap guides.

Even some who were sceptical five years ago when Bedford was the first county town in the UK to have a Business Improvement District, were supportive this time - such as the independent store Beales.

Store Director Alex Mitchell said:

“We can see the value of the BID. It makes sense for the retailers to have a co-ordinated campaign to promote the town centre to encourage visitors.

“Beales is a strong supporter of Bedford town centre. We are a local store with, strong heritage in the town. Unlike big national brands we have the flexibility to respond to customer needs.

“Demonstrating our confidence in retail in Bedford we are opening a new toy department on Thursday 1st April. There will be fun and games for three days and it will be fitting celebration for the BID too.”

Deputy Chairman of the BedfordBID Board Kevin Kavanagh, of Frescoes Coffee House in Mill Street, like others, gives his time free of charge to help steer the organisation. He said: “When the credit crunch arrived other towns were rushing to put survival and ‘shop local’ plans into place. BedfordBID was ahead of them with a structured, well researched and executed business plan and so Bedford has weathered the storm far better than others.”

There is great news for the smallest businesses as the structure of the levy has been altered so that the smallest ones won't have to pay - although they still get all the benefits.

The Harpur Shopping Centre makes a voluntary contribution above those paid by its 40+ individual retail outlets. Centre Manager Paul Smith said: “BedfordBID has made a dramatic difference to retailers at The Harpur Shopping Centre with promotions, events and the Bluecaps, who have been a positive addition to the town. The BID and Bluecaps bridge the gap between our retailers and the wider town centre, providing a familiar face for shoppers to approach for information and help.

“One example of a difference made to the town through the BID is the clean up and reduction in graffiti. Bluecaps take pictures of graffiti, we provide CCTV footage to the police and arrests have been made as a result. That shows the success of working together to the benefit of businesses and visitors to Bedford town centre.

“BedfordBID gift vouchers have been a success with almost all of our retailers taking part in the scheme. It is easy for customers and stores to use. Bedford College uses the vouchers as prizes, encouraging young people to shop in the town.

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