A key line of support for Altrincham’s businesses could stop if votes aren’t cast before Friday.
The town’s Business Improvement District (BID) and Altrincham Unlimited have supported the area by encouraging more shoppers in, giving lockdown advice and making the town centre as appealing as possible, including arranging a visit from Tour of Britain and establishing its Christmas lights switch on.
The BID is funded by a levy from Altrincham based businesses calculated on the rateable value of the property they operate from. These funds are then applied directly into activities within the town centre.
Funds are used to run events, launch marketing promotions, establish business partnerships and invest into the town directly.
Town centre businesses can vote every five years for the BID and their levy contributions to it to continue, and votes are being cast now.
With a deadline for ballots of Friday November 27, the area’s local councillors are backing the programme and calling for people to vote for another five years of business support in Altrincham through the levy scheme.
Elizabeth Faulkner and the team at Altrincham Unlimited have worked since 2016, and particularly during the recent lockdowns, to help local businesses make the most of things, giving them advice and helping to thrive.
In a statement Altrincham’s Green Party councillors said: “Elizabeth Faulkner and the team at Altrincham Unlimited have done a fantastic job, bringing more people to shop and eat in Altrincham. From the Christmas lights to bringing the Tour of Britain to town, they have given Altrincham the extra sparkle it needs to keep attracting visitors.
“During the lockdowns they have helped local businesses work in new ways. Their SupportAlty campaign is making people aware of shops and restaurants offering take away, collection or delivery services.”
Coun Michael Welton added: “Altrincham Unlimited’s work will help our businesses bounce back from Covid-19. Their events will get people back having fun and spending money. Dan, Geraldine and I particularly welcome the Buisness Improvement District’s work to create a safe, green, clean and attractive town centre.”
