Digbeth businesses have voted to establish a new Business Improvement District (BID) in the creative neighbourhood, unlocking £3 million of investment over the next five years. The BID, approved by 83% of voters, will begin its five-year term on September 1.
What Is a Business Improvement District?
Business Improvement Districts are voted in by eligible businesses, which then pay a levy to fund improvements and services in the area. Birmingham already has 11 BIDs, including the Central BID, which recently delivered the first Ozzy Day celebrating Ozzy Osbourne with orchestral performances and live music pop-ups. The Central BID also created murals for Black Sabbath's final gig and curated open-air art spaces. The Colmore BID organises the annual Colmore Food Festival, attracting tens of thousands of visitors.
Key Priorities for Digbeth BID
The Digbeth BID promises to celebrate the 'limitless potential' of its neighbourhood of 'free spirits, creators, entrepreneurs, innovators and thinkers who fall squarely outside the mainstream'. Core priorities include putting Digbeth on the map as a go-to destination for business, culture and creativity, attracting new opportunities and investment while celebrating what makes it different. It will focus on clean streets and safety, accessibility and connectivity, working with Birmingham City Council to ensure Digbeth gets the services it should while investing in additional support. The BID also aims to support unique spaces, organisations and people, backing events and campaigns to help Digbeth grow without losing its soul.
Community and Business Reaction
Emma Riley, chair of Digbeth BID and executive at Shine TV, said: 'Digbeth is an incredibly special place. From independent venues and creative organisations to globally recognised names, this area has always had its own identity, energy and community spirit. We're delighted that businesses have voted yes and backed a shared vision for Digbeth's future. There's a lot of change coming, and this is our opportunity to make sure Digbeth benefits from it. We want to build on everything that's brilliant about the area, give businesses a stronger voice and make sure that, as Digbeth grows, it stays true to what makes it unique.'
Dr Eileen Schofield, deputy chair of Digbeth BID and chair of West Midlands Irish Business Group, added: 'This is a brilliant result for Digbeth and, most importantly, for the businesses that call it home. The BID gives us the opportunity to work together, invest in the things that matter and have a stronger collective voice in the decisions that affect the area, in support of the Digbeth Business and Cultural Community. Digbeth has always done things a little differently. Now we have an opportunity to shape what's next, together.'
Future Developments
More than 500 businesses will be brought together through the BID, with HS2, the BBC and West Midlands Metro all expanding into Digbeth in the coming years alongside other new developments. The BID aims to ensure that Digbeth benefits from these changes while retaining its unique character.
