Frequently Asked Questions

A BID (Business Improvement District) is a non-for-profit organisation, funded for by businesses to improve the are in which they trade within through a voted upon business plan. There are currently over 300 BIDs in the UK after the legislation came into place in 2004.

A BID can only be formed following consultation and a ballot in which businesses vote on a BID proposal for the area. A committee is formed to develop the BID and gather data from the businesses in the proposed area to form a business plan, the business plan is then shared and voted upon through an independent ballot process. Once a BID is voted in by the business, they are fixed for a five-year term, after which there is usually a renewal process for a further five years.

All eligible businesses pay a set levy, the rate of which is agreed upon in a business plan which is drawn up before the BID is brought into place, which also sets out the projects and services. BIDs can also draw in other funding from partners and grants.

The BID levy is calculated at 1.75% of the rateable value of the property in which the business trades from. The rateable value threshold for a levy paying business is £8,000, those businesses that fall below the threshold will not pay the BID levy. The maximum liability for a BID levy payer will be capped at £18,000 per annum per hereditament.

Keighley BID’s second term started on 1 June 2024 following a successful ballot. The second term will end on 30 November 2028. The renewal ballot for Keighley BID’s third term will take place in 2028 for the third term to begin on 1 December 2028 for a further five years.

A BID is managed by a voluntary Board of Directors who are representatives from independent businesses, businesses that are part of larger groups and representation from across Keighley Town Centre. The BID Board oversee the delivery of the business plan by the BID Team.

• Increased footfall and vibrancy
• Improved stronger communications and a stronger voice for businesses around the management of their business districts
• Reductions in crime and anti-social behaviour
• New events and festivals to re-engage consumers
• Marketing and promotion of local companies to millions of new consumers
• Enhanced cleansing and additional planting to create a more attractive destination for consumers.
• Improved access to public funded grants and business support
• Reduced utility costs through accessing joint procurement initiatives.

If you are under the threshold or are not in the BID area, you can join the BID as a voluntary member. Your levy will be calculated on your current rateable value which you will be invoiced for annually. By becoming a member, you will then be entitled to all of the BID member benefits and access to projects. To join as a member or for more information please contact – [email protected]