BUSINESSES in Stockton town centre have voted in favour of the proposal to establish a Business Improvement District (BID).
The news, announced Friday, has been welcomed by Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, Councillor Bob Cook.
Councillor Cook said: “We’ve always viewed the creation of a BID as an important step towards Stockton town centre fulfilling its huge potential, so we are absolutely delighted with this news. By voting in favour of a BID, businesses have not only given a ringing endorsement of our vision for Stockton town centre, they have literally bought into it themselves.
“We know trading conditions remain tough but with town centre businesses on board these challenges can be identified and overcome. The BID will put power in their hands to join forces and, with the full support of the Council, drive forward all kinds of activities and events aimed at boosting trade, attracting visitors and shoppers, and encouraging enterprise.
“This will complement the work we are doing with our partners to create major assets and attractions in the town, including a restored Globe theatre, expanded Georgian theatre, and the proposed Hampton by Hilton hotel. Our regeneration of the town centre has made it a really pleasant place to shop, eat out, or just spend time with family and friends, and we are excited by the prospect of working with the BID to take it to the next level.”
Councillor Cook added: “I’d like to thank everybody involved in the BID steering group for the work they have done to bring this important new initiative to fruition.”