18/09/2012

Second Stage Of Business Improvements Districts Legislation Complete

Alliance Finance spokesperson Judith Cochrane has welcomed the completion of the second stage in the Assembly of the Business Improvement Districts legislation.

The legislation will provide regulation to allow traders to gain access to extra services following the payment of a levy once a BID area has been established.

Judith Cochrane MLA said: "Having first discussed the potential for Business Improvement Districts here in Northern Ireland with a number of involved stakeholders not long after beginning my term in this Assembly, it is with a sense of fulfillment that I can welcome the progression of this legislation.

"There is currently little in the way of formal regulation to standardise potential BID schemes, and so our community traders and patrons repeatedly find themselves faced with difficulties in establishing boundaries, securing local government support and obtaining contributions from prospective beneficiaries.

"This Bill will provide a number of statutory provisions to enable BIDs to operate under a legislative charter, giving additional rights and protections to those it serves to benefit, and bringing us further in to line with what is already in operation throughout Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

"The intent and end goal of this legislation represents a huge step forward for community business precincts throughout Northern Ireland."

(CD)


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