Member Article

Tees estate votes for higher rates

A Teesside industrial estate has voted to become the first Business Improvement District (BID) in the North East.

The decision means tenants of the Cowpen Estate at Billingham have agreed to pay higher rates to continue improving security, including CCTV cameras. The estate had been warned by Stockton’s Crime Prevention Officer, Detective Constable Eddie Lincoln, that a “No” vote would inevitably lead to increased vandalism and theft.

Cowpen Industrial Estate chairman, Mike Devereux said: “It was an excellent turn-out. Those in favour obviously recognise the value of increased security and they are prepared to pay an extra three per cent for it. “The vote means the higher rates will apply to all companies on the estate whether they were in favour, against or abstained.”

CCTV cameras and the business to business pub-watch style security links have reduced crime figures but more investment is needed to replace ageing equipment. Six new camera sites have already been identified and will be funded with BID cash which will be in excess of £50,000 per year.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .