PLANS for a £2million investment in the city over the next five years have been set out by Salisbury BID, to be put in place if it is re-elected for a second term next month.

The Business Improvement District, formed in 2014, will reach the end of its first term in March, and is currently running a ballot for all BID levy-paying businesses with aims to be elected for a second five-year term.

In a proposed business plan for 2019 to 2024, the BID sets out its key objectives and respective budgets as; welcoming and enhancing (£621,000); promoting and supporting (£725,000); and representing and influencing (£310,000) Salisbury.

About 90 per cent of the overall budget comes from a levy charged to member businesses within the ring-road with a rateable value of £10,000 or more, with the remainder coming from voluntary membership, grants and sponsorship.

The BID business plan warns that there is “no replacement body that will deliver the objectives, projects and services” proposed.

In a message to its members, BID chief executive Robin McGowan said: “Over the next five years, we intend to build on the foundations we have laid and aim to encourage further collaborative working with our city leaders and stakeholders.

“Throughout the response and recovery of Salisbury [since March 2018], the BID has been playing a crucial part in representing businesses by ensuring your voice is heard.

“We want to continue to represent you and your business in the longer-term plans for the regeneration of the city.

“Over the next five years, we will work to improve footfall, increase sales, reduce business costs and enhance the promotion of our city.”

In its first term, BID delivered the Salisbury Christmas Market ad brought the ice rink to the centre in 2018, ran the Nutcracker Trail and lantern procession, and launched the Salisbury Gift Card.

It also jointly funds Salisbury CityWatch with the city council, which keeps the city’s CCTV operational.

The ballot of members runs until February 28, and the result will be announced on March 1.

To be successful, more than 50 per cent of businesses must vote yes to re-electing the BID, and the proportion voting in favour must represent more than half of the BID’s total rateable value. If re-elected, its new term will begin on April 1.