Businesses in Swansea and Cardiff have voted overwhelmingly in favour of continuing their respective business improvement districts (BIDs) for a further five years. The ballots, held in June 2026, saw strong support from levy-paying firms in both cities.
Cardiff BID Landmark Result
In Cardiff, 92% of businesses voted in favour of continuing the BID, with a 97% approval by rateable value. The new mandate also extends the BID's borders beyond the city centre to cover Cardiff Bay, bringing an additional £1 million of levy funding for projects and services aimed at bolstering the city’s standing as a place to work, live and visit.
The geographical extension aligns with efforts to improve connectivity between the two areas of the capital. The first phase of Cardiff Crossrail is under way, which will see a new tram network from Cardiff Central Station to the Bay. Plans for the next phase will then reach Atlantic Wharf, with its new indoor arena at the heart of a wider mixed-use regeneration project.
The new five-year term will begin in December 2026 and will continue until November 2031. Since its establishment, FOR Cardiff has delivered a wide range of initiatives focused on improving the city environment, supporting business growth, enhancing safety and promoting Cardiff as a leading destination.
FOR Cardiff Director Comments
Carolyn Brownell, executive director at FOR Cardiff, said: “We are delighted that businesses have once again placed their trust in FOR Cardiff and have voted in a landmark result which is testament to the hard work of the team. This result reflects the value businesses see in a strong, collaborative voice for Cardiff and comes at a pivotal moment as we prepare to welcome Cardiff Bay into the BID area from December. This expansion presents a unique and fantastic opportunity to bring together the city centre and waterfront, creating an even stronger and more connected business community. We look forward to working with businesses across the capital to deliver ambitious projects and ensure Cardiff continues to thrive.”
Swansea BID Fifth Consecutive Term
Of the 955 firms in the Swansea BID ballot, 84.1% voted in favour of another five-year term. Andrew Douglas, Swansea BID manager, said: “To be re-elected for a fifth consecutive term is an incredible achievement and one that everyone involved with Swansea BID is immensely proud of. The fact that our business community has once again placed its trust in us is a real vote of confidence in everything we’ve achieved together over the past 20 years. I’d like to thank every business that took part in the ballot and everyone who has supported Swansea BID over the years. We never take that support for granted. We’re excited about what lies ahead. Swansea is a city with huge ambition and enormous potential, and over the next five years we’ll continue working with businesses, Swansea Council and our partners to make the city centre an even more vibrant, welcoming and successful destination. Our focus remains on delivering real value for our levy payers while helping ensure Swansea is a brilliant place to visit, work, shop and invest.”
Future Plans for Swansea BID
Over the next five years, Swansea BID said it will continue to deliver a programme of business support, city centre promotion, events, marketing, safety initiatives and environmental improvements, ensuring the city centre “remains competitive, attractive and resilient.” The BID has been operating for 20 years and has consistently delivered value to its members through a range of services and projects.
