Ballymena

BUSINESS PLAN BID TERM 1st April 2021 – 31st March 2026

Ballymena Means Business BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 1 2020 has, without doubt, been one of the most challenging years I have ever encountered in 35 years trading in my hometown of Ballymena….and it’s far from over yet. I’m sure that many of you are feeling the same. “Unprecedented” quickly became one of the cliché words of 2020….but there really is no better term to describe what we have all endured since the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic in March 2020.

Ballymena BID It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the sterling Business Plan 2021 – 2026 service that continues to be provided by our NHS staff, front line workers and essential service providers during such difficult times. Thank you. As we tread carefully into 2021, the vaccination programme is well underway. Hopefully we CONTENTS can all look forward to a new beginning in sight. The true cost of the Covid 19 pandemic, both socially and economically, will be immeasurable. As a BID Board Introduction Page 3 we are keen to continue to push forward, plan for the future and build upon the firm foundations which have What is a BID? Page 4 already been laid. We must ensure that Ballymena recovers from a series of enforced, temporary closures Covid 19 Support Page 5 and restricted trading in order to remain a destination This business plan belongs to all of us. It’s based on the of choice for shoppers and visitors alike going forward. feedback we have received and we thank all of you that Ballymena BID Delivers Page 6 & 7 We can only achieve this with your ongoing support and have taken part in that process. Whilst our plans to go to commitment to Ballymena BID. ballot were postponed due to Covid-19, we believe that Listening to You Page 8 the Pandemic has served to reinforce the value of the BID to support members… both in prosperous and difficult So What Will BID 2 Deliver? Page 9 There are now over 300 successful Business Improvement Districts throughout the UK. The BID concept is an times. We know that trading remains really tough for many The BID Area Page 12 established and proven business model. There has never businesses, but feel those challenges demonstrate exactly been more need for a mechanism such as BID. It provides why we have greater opportunities by working together. The Levy Page 12 the opportunity to bring all of the businesses within our town together to facilitate a consensus of ideas, create We were immensely proud that Ballymena led the way by Budget Forecast Page 13 a well-informed business plan and implement that same becoming the first BID in . We want you plan alongside a variety of stakeholders…. including our to support us in order to renew the ballot and be able to BID Governance & Management Page 14 colleagues at MEABCouncil. We simply cannot afford to continue our good work whilst learning lessons from our lose our BID. We will continue to work alongside Ballymena first term. Please support us in our collective endeavour FAQs Page 15 Retailers Against Crime (BRAC) and PSNI to ensure that to continue to make Ballymena an even better place to do business and we will have over £1m to invest in the BID area. BID Rules & Ballot Page 16 Ballymena remains a clean, safe, attractive and welcoming location. We will continue to support businesses with I’m a huge supporter of the BID model… including the Measuring Results Page 17 business related training and business networking opportunities as required. principle of everyone working together for the greater What Happens Next? Page 17 good of the local economy. There will continue to be challenges ahead. However, I would urge all of you, Testimonials Page 18 as local business owners, to VOTE YES in favour of Ballymena BID 2 as we enter a new era in 2021. Together Get in Touch Page 20 everyone achieves more. The success of the re-ballot in respect of Ballymena BID is more important than ever at this challenging time. I genuinely can’t see any better alternative than the BID model.

Voting papers will be with you in due course. It is important that you show your support for Ballymena BID 2 by voting YES!

Thank you.

Chairman, Stephen Reynolds on behalf of the Ballymena BID Board

2 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 3 A BID is a formal arrangement majority vote YES then a BID comes YES must also represent a greater total where the businesses in an area into being and everybody pays a small rateable value than those that vote come together to fund, manage and levy to assist with the implementation NO. Turnout needs to be a minimum of implement an agreed programme of the BID Business Plan. A BID can last 25% by number and by rateable value. of actions designed to improve the for a maximum of five years before it trading environment of the area to the is required to go for a renewal ballot There are currently over 300 BIDs in benefit of all the businesses within it. in order for it to continue. operation across the UK supporting The actions are set out in a business our towns and cities, with 8 operating in The Ballymena BID has been instrumental concerns, etc. during phased reopening future positive Ballymena news and plan that is voted on by all eligible For a successful YES vote, over 50% Northern Ireland. It’s a tried and tested in co-ordinating support for businesses of our town centre… and following the campaigns. businesses in the BID area and are of businesses that vote must vote in business model. Ballymena BID was the during the COVID crisis and will continue Covid-19 lockdown. • Shop local “influencer” campaign in addition to those services already favour of the Ballymena BID Renewal first BID in Northern Ireland and has a to do so. Activities have included • Social media updates promoting encouraging Ballymena to support local provided by the local Council. If the Business Plan. The businesses voting led the way in many aspects. local businesses as they reopened in retail and find their Amazon shopping • Regular email updates on grants Ballymena. basket in Ballymena town. and news relevant to Ballymena • Launch of a new website in October • Leveraging grants from DFC & MEABC businesses. 2020 to further support businesses. in order that the BID could extend • Regular meetings with MEABC to allow • Launch of Shop to Win Ballymena and continue to support Ballymena us to share updates with businesses. campaign, to increase spend, steady businesses during the Pandemic. • Radio, social media and billboard footfall and give back to businesses • Ballymena BID is also part of the Town campaign to promote “Shop Safe, Shop within the BID area by purchasing Centre Recovery Sub Group & Town Local, Shop Ballymena.” £20,000 worth of Gift Cards. This Centre Revitalise Sub Group led by • Support for business owners and store campaign has also strengthened our MEABC to lobby for Ballymena Town managers who needed a sounding board consumer database by 4,000+ local Centre to aid recovery and revitalisation about decision making, safety, staff people that we can reach out to with of our town following the Covid crisis.

What Happens if it is a “NO” Vote? If you do not vote “YES” Key work that will be lost on cleansing and • Business support then Ballymena BID will includes... enhancement of activities, including simply cease to exist on Ballymena town centre training and networking will disappear. opportunities will cease. 31 March 2021. All of • Over £1m of professional marketing & promotion. the services such as the • Car parking and wayfinding There is NO replacement marketing, events and initiatives. promotional activities • Reduction in safety and body that will deliver these that are funded by the BID security initiatives. services. THERE IS NO “PLAN B.” will also cease at that time. • Additional spending

4 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 5 Ballymena BID has operated in a very 1) Marketing, Promotion and Events town centre, at the People’s Park. • The ballymenameans.com website make the town centre safer and tough economic climate during its • The ‘Ballymena Bear’ marketing • The Discount Day has been an annual continues to be popular and provides more welcoming. first 5 years. According to the Office campaign was a huge success in event and now includes all of Ballymena. regular news, updates and events • The Radio Link Scheme for National Statistics, the Northern conveying the message that ‘Ballymena Additionally, there have been other information. The BID now has over has helped keep businesses Ireland economy reduced by 5% and means Christmas’ with an effective events and campaigns including 8,500 followers across Social Media connected thereby helping to the Mid & East area economic series of Christmas videos which were Midtown Sounds, Christmas Campaigns including Facebook, Instagram and reduce business crime. output reduced by 10%. This was specifically designed for social media and and competitions, Spring Bank Holiday Twitter accounts. • 4000 cigarette disposal pouches compounded by major job losses in were picked up by local television news Events and Summer Sounds @The HUB were distributed via retailers. the area, together with the ongoing stations and local and national press. which have all added to the customer 2) Accessibility • A Crime Reduction guide was challenges facing national retailers and • The BID liaised with experience. Over the last 5 years our • Access to Ballymena was improved compiled, printed and distributed to the economic impact of the Covid 19 Borough Council (MEABC) to see the All schedule of events has attracted over though the Car Parking initiative. all businesses. Pandemic during most of the last year. Ireland Pipe Band Championships hosted 50,000 more people into Ballymena Working closely with the MEABC, the • 250 personal alarms were distributed in Ballymena. More than 10,000 visitors town centre. BID has helped deliver initiatives such as to retail staff. However, what the above has demonstrated made up of pipers, drummers, highland • The BID also created the “Ballymena 5 hours parking for £1. • 250 UV light, counterfeit note is the benefit of everyone working together, dancers, drum majors and their families Means” brand aimed at the consumer. detectors distributed to retailers. adapting and changing. Ballymena led the and supporters descended on Ballymena This has worked well across all social 3) Supporting the Town Businesses way in becoming the first BID. for a day in the summer of 2019. media platforms which are now well • The BID has helped you save money and 5) Improving the Physical Environment • Our collaboration with MEABC in Oct established and working efficiently for delivered a return on your investment During the first five year term of Below we look back at some key 2019 saw the Annual Fireworks Display the town’s traders…. showcasing offers, through access to the Bank of Ireland Ballymena BID we have improved the achievements during our first term. relocate to a new location, closer to the promotions, updates and events. Smart Card and renewable energy saving physical environment by providing; schemes. • 24 poster frames which have been • Free Business Breakfasts were delivered, introduced at various locations in the in conjunction with the Chamber of town centre. 1% of Commerce, providing levy payers with • A street orderly trolley was introduced 100 information, training and networking for improved day to day street cleaning. opportunities. These included skills • A Vanguard street cleaner purchased for people’s training programmes in customer additional deeper cleansing. service, World Host training and bespoke • Over 75 seasonal lighting wraps efforts is business mentoring opportunities. purchased and installed throughout the greater than town centre. 4) Safety and Security • 16 planters purchased for use throughout 100% of one In partnership with BRAC the following the town centre. person’s have been provided: • 3 large Bear planters purchased to • Personnel on the ground including enhance the town centre. efforts! “meeters and greeters”, Wardens and an • Hoardings erected to camouflage blank additional Police presence has helped to sites and derelict properties BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 7 6 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 7 MARKETING & PROMOTION 75%

SAFE, CLEAN & WELCOMING

consultation with local businesses. • November – December 2020- “Shop to 15% Win” Ballymena…. our £20,000 Giveaway Campaign. • April 2020 – January 2021 - Ongoing discussions with the Board. The BID BUSINESS Board is made up of Directors from BID levy-paying businesses and the public SUPPORT agencies. • January – February 2021-Full Business Plan produced and distributed 10% Primarily, you have told us to concentrate most of the BIDS’s resources on the marketing and promotion of the town We have considered carefully all of your support and recovery work in relation and your respective businesses. We comments, suggestions and feedback to COVID. The BID renewal process is will do this by investing 75% of the going forward for a second term. In subsequently delayed. budget in this area over the next five addition to our usual newsletters and • June/July – BID staff on the ground years. The events programme is likely regular contact with businesses we have working closely with MEABC staff to to be be reduced in line with ongoing undertaken specific consultation and welcome traders and shoppers alike back Covid-19 restrictions. However, as engagement with regard to renewing in to Ballymena town centre following restrictions ease, marketing and event the BID that has included: prolonged lockdown for many. £24,000 planning will recommence stronger than additional funding secured by Ballymena ever. We will retain and build upon our • February 2020 – Achievements BID from Dept. for Communities (DFC) Annual Discount Day which continues to Newsletter & Renewal Survey sent to all to assist with Ballymena’s Economic successfully deliver strong footfall into businesses. Recovery Plan. the town. The marketing function will • Early March 2020 – Face to face • August 2020 - Renewal Newsletter sent be professionalised and we will ensure consultation with businesses. to all businesses. the team have the skills set that is needed • Late March 2020 - UK hit by COVID • September 2020 – Three draft business to deliver a marketing plan with clear 19 pandemic and subsequently goes plan workshops held. objectives and constructive evaluation to into lockdown. Ballymena BID delivers • October 2020-Further face to face ensure that we are delivering real value.

8 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 9 It’s not what happens to our local economy… it’s how we respond to what happens! SAFE & WELCOMING • We will utilise Influencer Marketing by partnering with local agents to aid campaigns and promote the town as Your feedback indicates that there MARKETING a whole. By working with partners we are aspects of our work, in making will be able to create engaging content Ballymena a safe and welcoming place which will appeal to a local following. to be, that you wish to see us continue. • Where appropriate, and cost effective, • By working with the local Police & PROMOTION we will use strategic outdoor advertising Service of Northern Ireland, and including adshels and billboards to individual businesses, we will promote capture a wider audience and promote safety and reduce crime. This will be Your feedback had indicated that you want • There will be a further upgrade to the new Ballymena….including events like our detailed in a Crime Strategy that will BID to concentrate most of the BIDS’s website to include a comprehensive and annual Discount Day. be developed with relevant partners. resources on the Marketing and Promotion categorised Business Directory including • Our PR work will be enhanced by • Work towards a cleaner environment of the town and your businesses. We will direct links to individual businesses. working with local press, television and for shoppers and workers to enjoy. This do this by investing 75% of the budget in There will be a strong focus on Search radio stations to promote all that we do. will be achieved through enhanced this project over the next five years. And Engine Optimisation to ensure that we • Discount Day will continue with a focus litter and waste management by on increasing footfall and improving of course, we look forward to the return of are as effective as we can possibly be working with partners and continuing with the opportunity for sign-ups and dwell time….thereby increasing spend Ballymena’s Annual Discount Day in 2021 to use the Vanguard street cleaning email marketing. per visit. alongside many other campaigns and machine that was purchased during • Social Media, particularly Facebook and events to promote our town. the first term of the BID. Instagram, have shown the strongest All of our marketing will be measured using • There are areas in the town centre growth and engagement over the last the online resources available to us and where lighting could be used more The marketing function will be couple of years. It will be expanded we will report the results back to you on a effectively to create ambience professionalised and we will ensure the and used alongside any other relevant regular basis. Examples of the online tools or to enhance security. We will team have the skills set that is needed platform to promote Ballymena as the that we will use to monitor and measure develop a plan and install lighting as to deliver a marketing plan with clear ‘go to’ destination to shop and spend success will include; social media insights, appropriate. objectives and constructive evaluation to leisure time. We will also promote Google analytics, listener and viewer ensure that we are delivering real value. individual businesses, their offering, numbers provided by media outlets and events and news stories. Levy payers will customer and business feedback. We will We will develop a strong and more be able to advertise via all social media also continue to monitor footfall figures comprehensive digital offering. platforms free of charge. and introduce a spend analysis measure. BUSINESS SUPPORT

Business Support still remains an important and effective relationships with partners, function of the BID. We will support you, the including Mid and East Antrim Borough businesses, by lobbying for the changes you Council, central government bodies, the request, investment and support. This will Chamber of Commerce, PSNI and Translink. be achieved through maintaining strong Communication is key and we will ensure you receive business information, updates, news and support in a frequent, focused and effective manner. Our key objectives are:

• To act as a powerful voice for business on operational matters. • Lever any additional funding related to COVID 19 recovery. • Influence strategy and policies in relation to the changing nature of Ballymena town centre. 10 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 11 BALLYMENA BID: INCOME & EXPENDITURE FORECAST

PROJECTED 2021/2022 2022/2023 2023/2024 2024/2025 2025/2026

Income/Levy £200,000 £200,000 £200,000 £200,000 £200,000

The Bid area will be stronger, with Additional Income £15,000 £15,000 £15,000 £15,000 £15,000 direct links to our transportation network, which will help to improve TOTAL £215,000 £215,000 £215,000 £215,000 £215,000 THE BID AREA our destination marketing. The map shows Projected Income: £1,075,000 the proposed Ballymena BID EXPENDITURE Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 area. Marketing, Promotions Streets £112,500 £112,500 £112,500 £112,500 £112,500 & Events included within the BID area: *Safety, Cleaning, Alexander Street Welcoming & Business £37,500 £37,500 £37,500 £37,500 £37,500 Street Support Bridge Street * This fund will be prioritised on what will be most beneficial to businesses at the time. Broadway Avenue Street Staff £45,000 £45,000 £45,000 £45,000 £45,000 Bryan Street Castle Street Office & IT Support £5,500 £5,500 £5,500 £5,500 £5,500 (part of) Church Street Insurance £1,200 £1,200 £1,200 £1,200 £1,200 Church Street Arcade Levy Collection £6,600 £6,600 £6,600 £6,600 £6,600 Duke Street Fairhill Lane Professional Fees £1,300 £1,300 £1,300 £1,300 £1,300 Fountain Place Galgorm Road Bank Charges £400 £400 £400 £400 £400 Galgorm Street Garfeld Place Contingency £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 George Street SUB TOTAL £65,000 £65,000 £65,000 £65,000 £65,000 Greenvale Street John Street Mount Street Pentagon Retail Park Thomas Street High Street Linenhall Street Parkway Springwell Street Wellington Court NOTE: Additional income is estimated based on a current agreement with Mid & East and is subject to Hill Street Mill Street Pats Brae Suffolk Street Wellington Street change. The BID will lobby for additional funding as opportunities arise, throughout BID 1 over £150,000 of additional funding was secured for Ballymena Town Centre. Income is a projection and could be a higher or lower amount. THE BID LEVY The BID company will be accountable membership scheme for businesses in for every pound it receives or generates. the BID area with a rateable value of Ballymena BID will be financed through less than £5,000. This will enable them a 1.75% annual levy based on the ADDITIONAL INCOME to invest and share in the benefits of the rateable value of your business. The BID. A board position can be allocated levy will apply to all business rates for voluntary contributors who are In its first term from 2015–2020, payers with a rateable value of £5,000 members of the BID Company. Ballymena BID generated £150,000 or more. in additional income through outside The BID can also seek additional Over the five-year term, it will therefore grants from Mid and East Antrim income, grants and project match result in an investment of over £1M Borough Council and UK Government. funding to deliver further value for into business in Ballymena. The levy We expect to raise a similar amount for money. In addition, the BID potentially is an investment. In return for your this 5year term. has the power to run commercial investment your business benefits from services or other income generating additional projects and services. The BID will also run a voluntary activities.

12 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 13 BID GOVERNANCE

Stephen & MANAGEMENT Reynolds Chair Front Page Bar MEET THE BID BOARD

Is this just another tax How much will I pay? Andy Hugh Ken Crawford Emma Natalie Stephen Audrey Richard and will it substitute Storey Black Treasurer McCrea Jackson Glasgow Wales MBE McLoughlin for those services that Vice Chair Secretary McCartney & BID Manager Fairhill Shopping Camerons MEABC Wyse Byse Boots Tower Centre Crawford Consultant Centre MEABC is responsible for providing? MEABC will collect a levy, on behalf of Ballymena BID, from each BID business within the Bid area. That revenue will be transferred to the BID Company FAQ A BID cannot replace or substitute and used to implement the projects public agency services i.e. those laid out in this plan. BID businesses covered by your business rates. will pay 1.75% of their rateable value. MEABC, along with the PSNI, have This is collected annually. Those provided baseline agreements as Thomas Killian Roy Carole Agnes Tom Wiggins Gail Trevor Parker below £5,000 in rateable value will McKillen Connolly Smyth McKenna Doyle Kelly BRAC part of the BID renewal for both its be formally exempt. Ballymena statutory and discretionary services. McKillen’s Shoes Marks & Spencers Outdoor The Grouse Menarys Chamber of MEABC Ballymena Retailers The BID has been running Adventure Commerce Against Crime These can be viewed on request and for 5 years. Why can’t it include the following: just continue? My business is not a The Ballymena BID Board is a private THE BID BOARD sector led, not-for profit company, limited • Cleansing and maintenance part of the BID area. by guarantee and has, for the last 5 years, The BID Board is currently comprised of the following members: • Car Parking Can I still take part? been governed by a board comprising of • CCTV BOARD MEMBERS BID levy payers or equivalent voluntary BID terms last for a maximum of 5 • Tourism financial contributors, local authority Stephen Reynolds Chair The Front Page years. Once that term is over the • Markets BID is legally required to review its • Festivals and Events members and co-opted members. Andy Storey Vice Chair Boots Yes. Any businesses that are formally projects, produce a new Business • Street Furniture exempt from paying the BID levy, or Hugh Black Secretary Tower Centre BID Board positions are voluntary and Plan stating its objectives for the next • Street Lighting not in the BID area, can contribute unpaid. The Board includes a mix of all Ken Crawford Treasurer McCartney & Crawford 5 years. The plan is then voted on by • Planting and Landscaping voluntarily. If you choose to support BID businesses that will be required to • Public Conveniences sectors of business that operate within the Killian Connolly M&S the BID in this way, you have pay the levy. This procedure is known • Highways and Roads exactly the same rights, in terms of BID area which brings all the necessary Natalie Jackson Fairhill Shopping Centre skills required to navigate the BID through as a renewal ballot. • Policing governance and management of its second term. Richard McLoughlin WyseByse the company as any other business. Roy Smith Outdoor Adventure To discuss voluntary contributions All Board positions will be voted on Stephen Glasgow Camerons please contact the BID Team using the through an election process in Year 1 of a contact details on the last page. second BID term. Invitations will go out to Thomas McKillen McKillens Shoes all BID businesses and voluntary financial Audrey Wales MEABC contributors to become members of Agnes Doyle Menarys the Ballymena BID Company (a legal When will the second Carole McKenna The Grouse requirement). This entitles levy payers mandate projects begin to stand for board positions and vote on to be delivered? company business. ADVISORS Tom Wiggins Chamber A vote will take place of all Company Trevor Parker BRAC members to then determine the new Gail Kelly MEABC The first term of the BID is due to BID Board. Directors will be required end on 31 March 2021 The new term to commit to attend meetings and will then start to be rolled-out from Ballymena BID will, where possible, have the following Board composition: contribute to the running of the BID. The 1st April 2021. If the renewal ballot Board membership will be reviewed once National and Independent Retail ...... 9 Commercial and Office...... 1 is unsuccessful, then all BID services a year. However, applications of interest Entertainment, Hospitality Pubs and Restaurants ...... 1 will be cease immediately at the end can be received, and new Directors of the first term. appointed by the Board, at any time and Leisure ...... 1 Education, Health and Third Sector ..... 1 during the BID term. Public Sector ...... 1 Voluntary Contributors ...... 1 14 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 15 BID RULES & BALLOT MEASURING RESULTS The BID legislation regulates BID ballots rateable value, at the time they enter the and the framework under which BIDs rating list. must operate. • If a business ratepayer occupies the premises for less than one year, then The BID Ballot the BID levy due will be calculated on a • Each business ratepayer that would be pro-rata basis. liable for the BID levy will have one vote for • Vacant properties, or those undergoing each of their eligible properties, provided refurbishment or being demolished, they are listed on the non-domestic rates will be liable to pay the BID levy by the list as provided by Land and Property property owner or registered business Services on 15th January 2021. ratepayer. • None of the costs incurred through the • The BID levy will not be affected by development of the BID and before the the small business rate relief scheme, formal ballot will be paid for by the BID exemptions, reliefs or discount periods levy. provided for in the Rates (Northern until 5pm on 30th March 2021 to • The BID levy rate will be fixed for the full Ireland) Order 1977 and subsequent vote. The ballot will be carried out term of the BID, which is five years, and will secondary legislation thereunder. independently by the Returning Officer, not be subject to inflation or alterations. • The BID Levy will not be affected by via Civica Election Services. Businesses service charges paid to landlords. occupying more than one eligible The BID Levy….and who pays? • VAT will not be charged on the BID levy. property will be sent one ballot paper • The BID levy will be applied to all per property. If you receive multiple businesses within the defined area with BID Operations and Management Throughout its first term, Ballymena • New Business Activity ballot papers please complete all of a rateable value of or exceeding £5,000, • The Billing Body is authorised to collect BID has kept BID businesses up to date • Annual Surveys them. The ballot will be carried out via provided they are listed on the non- the BID levy on behalf of the BID with all BID activity on a regular basis • Business Feedback post. Voting by proxy is available. Full domestic rates schedule as provided Company. by way of emails, newsletters, face-to- • Consumer Feedback details will be sent out in due course. by Land and Property Services. The • Collection and enforcement regulations face meetings, annual meetings and • Media Coverage • The BID Company will produce a set following will be exempt from paying will be in line with those applied to non- surveys. As a BID business, you will • Website/Social Media Interactions. • Notice of Ballot – 9th February 2021 of annual accounts which will be made the levy: domestic business rates, with the BID be kept up to date on all the projects • Renewal Business Plan – Distributed available to all company members. Board of Directors responsible for any that the BID will implement in its WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? by 1st February 2021 1. Organisations with a rateable value of debt write-off. • BID staff will be appointed, will be based second term in order to demonstrate The BID ballot will take place from • Postal Ballot Commences – 16th in Ballymena town centre and will work to you that BID is delivering against below £5,000. • The BID funding will be kept in a separate 16th February 2021 and you will have February 2021 with the appropriate agencies to deliver 2. Religious organisations, with non- BID Revenue Account and transferred to its objectives. • Ballot Closes – 30th March 2021 the programme of projects. trading operations, will be exempt the BID Company. • Declaration of Ballot Results – 31st • The BID will last for a duration of five from paying the BID levy. • BID projects, costs and timescales may The board will set the key performance DON’T March 2021 3. Non-retail charities with no trading be altered by the BID Board of Directors, years. At the end of the five years, a ballot indicators (KPIs) and criteria upon which must be held if businesses wish for the income, arm or facilities will be provided they remain in line with the to measure the BID’s performance. ALLOW THIS If the result of the ballot is NO, then BID to continue. exempt from paying the BID levy. overall BID objectives. Examples of the criteria the BID will TO HAPPEN. Ensure all activity provided by the Ballymena 4. Entirely subscription and volunteer- • The BID Board of Directors use include: that Ballymena BID will cease on 31 March 2021. based organisations will be exempt will meet at least six times There will be no marketing, no from paying the BID levy. a year. Every levy paying • Footfall Figures Means Business and website, no social media, no • The minimum BID Levy amount will be business will be eligible to • Vacancy Levels please vote YES! business support, no enhanced £87.50 per annum. be a member of the BID • Car Park Usage cleaning and there will be reduced • New businesses will be charged from Company and to vote at safety and crime reduction activity. the point of occupation, based upon the annual general meetings. There will be no single organisation in Ballymena town centre which is championing and representing all businesses. As local businesses you will lose your collective voice. Ballymena businesses will immediately stand to lose over £1m of investment to be spent on projects identified by you over the period 2021 – 2026.

GET IN TOUCH For more information about the Ballymena BID please contact us using the following details: Emma McCrea – Interim Manager, Ballymena BID E: [email protected] M: 078 8544 0296 or 078 5413 3310 Or visit our website: wwwballymenameans.com

16 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 17 Having a BID in Ballymena in these challenging times gives us a much greater edge over BALLYMENA BID other towns to drive footfall and sales to the town.

The focus of BID 2 will be to reinvigorate the town centre in the months and years RUN BY LOCAL BUSINESSES to come and it’s substantial marketing and promotions budget will be great catalyst FOR THE BENEFIT OF to help this. BID also is a fantastic forum representing the town centre businesses when working in LOCAL BUSINESSES partnership with MAEAC, PSNI and other stakeholders. If BID2 is not successful in getting through its re-ballot none of the above will happen so please make sure you make your vote a YES! Working in Ballymena town centre for the past two years has really opened my HUGH BLACK | Tower Centre eyes. Ballymena is unlike any other town I’ve previously worked in across Northern Ireland. The people, the unique mix of familiar High Street names, combined with long established independent retailers As President of Ballymena Chamber and the strong local business community of Commerce I have worked closely makes Ballymena a very special place with the BID team and have seen, first to visit, to work and to shop. There’s no hand, how they are doing a great job… doubt the past year has been a struggle for working with traders and stakeholders As a Ballymena trader of 35 years, all of us, both personally and in business. alike in an effort to support businesses i believe that the Ballymena BID The role of the Ballymena BID is more and boost Ballymena town centre as a will play a more important role important now than ever during such retail and hospitality destination. I fully than ever in assisting with the challenging times. We need to work hard support Ballymena BID 2. As a town, we ongoing recovery process for to reach out and open everyone’s eyes to all need to work together, even more our town centre during these our amazing town and unique offering. The plans in place for the next 5 years so during these challenging times, to challenging times. are strong, with a great focus on marketing to boost local business. Let’s recover ensure that plans are in place for the together, work together and remind everyone that Ballymena is still the No. 1 success of our future. destination for shopping in Northern Ireland. STEPHEN REYNOLDS Front Page Bar Ballymena BID has been one of EUGENE REID | Chamber President EMMA McCREA | Bid Manager the success stories of the past 5 years for our business community. If we are to make any headway in attracting both customers and If you believe that it is the traders of new businesses to Ballymena, we Ballymena that know what is the best for need the cohesive approach that our town then you need to support a 2nd the BID brings. Working together in WE CANNOT AFFORD TO BE Ballymena Business Improvement District. partnership we will always achieve A BID gives Ballymena a competitive edge LEFT BEHIND AS OTHER BID’S more success. It is true that the sum of the whole is greater than the sum over other towns. BECOME STRONGER AND PULL of the individual parts. It allows the traders of Ballymena TRADE AWAY FROM BALLYMENA! We cannot afford to pull out and to promote the town centre and its be left behind as other and more businesses driving footfall creating a safe BID’s become stronger and pull and welcoming environment for shoppers. trade away from Ballymena! Together we have a greater voice! Take the BID away and we are all on our own. BID continues to allow partnerships with other Government bodies, council etc to THOMAS McKILLEN leverage additional funding. Managing Director ANDREW STOREY McKillens of Ballymena Boots Manager Ballymena BID helps with access to Ministers and Civil Servants who normally can’t meet with private individuals. I strongly feel that in these very difficult trading times the My experience of BID has been very positive, especially how the businesses have worked BID ensures direction of travel is inline with advantages that a further 5-year together to set local priorities and actions and run high profile, co-ordinated events. Not what stakeholders require. term of BID will bring is extremely only has this approach helped to improve the look of the town centre, but it has raised important for the whole town its profile and contributed significantly to economic growth. Without BID we have more to lose than going forward as one unit. We need ever, we have built up relationships with a united front to put out a strong More than ever, BID is crucial to influence strategic planning and investment as well as main traders and independents and have marketing strategy to encourage continue to build on the work that has already been done. The economic benefits of gained insights to where we can be of more benefit in the future. as many shoppers to Ballymena as BID to date have been felt across the area and have improved our town… not just the possible. individual businesses. We cannot lose this support and direction at a time when the We offer a true voice of Ballymena, and our towns bright future, together stronger. majority of businesses are trying to survive, never mind innovate and develop. RICHARD McLOUGHLIN ROY SMYTH | Outdoor Adventure Wyse Byse CAROLE McKENNA | The Grouse

18 | BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 BALLYMENA BID | BUSINESS PLAN 2021 - 2026 | 19 The long-standing Throughout the Covid-19 relationship between pandemic, our retailers in Ballymena Mid and East Antrim have shown their resilience, Borough Council determination and passion for and Ballymena BID their town, despite being faced has never been as by the most challenging trading important as we look conditions imaginable. towards building back a sustainable The key role they play at the heart and successful town of our communities has never been centre economy. more apparent.

Throughout the Not only do our shop owners and business leaders provide essential COVID-19 emergency, services to our residents, many are our friends, our family – familiar our retailers have faces and names rooted into the fabric of our town. demonstrated true resilience and resourcefulness in the face of the As we look to a brighter future, free from Covid-19, it is critical we many challenges which have arisen. all support our local retailers, as they have supported us, and as a Council, we will continue to do everything we can to help them in With light on the horizon, we at Council will their recovery and regrowth following these unprecedented times. continue to do all we can to support Ballymena BID in their efforts to grow and develop the As it has been since its inception, the Ballymena Improvement unique shopping offering the town is famous for. District will be firmly at the side of our traders, working around the clock to build on our proud reputation as Northern Ireland’s best Our businesses in Ballymena have provided shopping town. employment, essential supplies and a sense of community in spite of the toughest I commend the BID for its continued commitment to our businesses, circumstances, and they can be assured of the our town and our Borough, and I extend my best wishes ahead of continued backing of Council in the times ahead. the forthcoming re-ballot.

COUNCILLOR PETER JOHNSTON ANNE DONAGHY OBE Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Chief Executive, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council

FOR Ballymena BID 2 Together everyone achieves MORE!

GET IN TOUCH For more information about the Ballymena BID please contact us using the following details: Ballymena Emma McCrea – Interim Manager, Ballymena BID E: [email protected] Means Business M: 078 8544 0296 or 078 5413 3310 Or visit our website: wwwballymenameans.com