Carlisle steering group drives city BID plans

A Cumbria-based business steering group is helping shape Carlisle’s future.

The Great Border City steering group is leading efforts to establish a Business Improvement District (BID) in Carlisle, aiming to enhance the city’s vibrancy, economic standing and appeal as a place to work and live. 

The BID would fund initiatives including events, festivals, shopping and dining offers and business support services through a levy on eligible premises.

Kevin Beaty, co-director of The Great Border City group, said: “The BID won’t replace or pay for services that are already provided by Cumberland Council; it is vitally important that everything it does is additional. 

“The aim is to bring people together to make Carlisle an even better place to live, work and recruit talent and thereby drive economic growth.”

The group brings together local stakeholders, including Armstrong Watson, Harrison Northern, West Walls Brewing Co, the University of Cumbria, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Tullie. 

Drawing on examples from over 340 UK towns and cities, including nearby Penrith, the steering group is canvassing businesses on priorities and shaping the BID manifesto.

Kevin added: “I’ve spoken to around 300 businesses already and most are behind the BID.

“There’s been £450 million of Government investment in Carlisle, in projects such as the Southern Link Road and the city centre improvements. 

“There are already great ‘big’ businesses such as Pirelli, Pladdis (McVities), Lloyds and so many others as well as traditional local firms and a thriving evening offer, but there’s still a feeling that the city needs to do more to really achieve. 

“The BID is one way to ensure that Carlisle reaches its full potential.

“It’s about civic pride. 

“We want everyone to feel proud of their city.”

Fellow co-director Adrian Lochhead added: “It has been so consistent when we ask people what they want that they want to see more activities and events, whether that be new street festivals, food festivals, more wall art, even a biscuit festival.

“The feedback has been that we need more things going on to give the city a lift and improve its image. 

“The economic benefit of these things is much more than on the day. 

“They encourage people to visit and stay in the city, they encourage people to want to live here and move here; that is what we see in other places, and that is what we want to replicate. 

“I can’t wait to get on with delivering – starting next year.”

Carlisle United owner Tom Piatak added: “As we’re investing in the football club, it’s important to invest in the city and the community as well. 

“The time is right to invest in Carlisle.

“Let’s not waste this opportunity to make this city grow. 

“I believe it’s the right approach and makes tremendous sense. I support the BID fully.”

The plan will be presented at a launch event at Tullie on October 7, ahead of a business ballot opening on October 31. 

A majority of businesses by number and rateable value must vote in favour for the BID to go ahead. 

Contributions will start at 1.58 per cent of rateable value, with caps for large institutions and exemptions for charities and smaller premises.

Tracy Slaven, chief transformation officer at the University of Cumbria, added: “I support and am working with the bid to build the vibrancy and vitality of Carlisle, supporting and encouraging business growth as we move forward, creating a fantastic place to live. 

“Having a confident city with vibrant businesses builds the attractiveness for incoming students but also reinforces to those who come from the city on the future that they have in front of them.”

See here for more details about the launch event at Tullie on October 7.

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