Accommodation BID Ballot Result Announced
The result of the Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) ballot has today been confirmed, with businesses voting not to proceed with the proposal.
The ABID had been developed to provide a sustainable, locally controlled funding mechanism to strengthen the town’s visitor economy, enhance destination marketing activity and support long-term competitiveness. The proposal followed consultation with accommodation providers and industry stakeholders over 18 months.
Dan Siddle, General Manager of the Crown Hotel and Co-Chair of the ABID, said:
“Naturally, we are disappointed with the outcome. The ABID proposal was designed to create a sustainable investment model that would allow us to compete more effectively in a rapidly evolving visitor economy.
“Many local managers recognised the benefits for the town, but some national operators take a different position on levies, which ultimately influenced the result. We respect the vote and thank all businesses that engaged constructively in the process.”
Simon Cotton, Managing Director of the Fat Badger Group and Co-Chair of the ABID, added:
"The conversations over the past year have underlined how important tourism remains to the town’s prosperity. While this ballot has not secured the mandate required, we remain committed to working collaboratively with the accommodation sector to explore other ways to strengthen and promote our destination."
Simon Midgley, Chair of Harrogate BID, said:
“The BID was proud to lead and fund this project from its inception through to ballot as part of our commitment to supporting the long-term success of the town. We firmly believed the ABID offered an opportunity to unlock additional, ring-fenced investment dedicated specifically to growing overnight stays.
“Although the result is not what we had hoped for, our focus remains on delivering value for businesses and continuing to work proactively with partners to strengthen the town centre and wider visitor economy.”
Gemma Rio, Interim CEO of Harrogate BID, said:
“We undertook extensive consultation to ensure businesses could make an informed decision, and we respect the outcome. The feedback gathered during the process remains valuable and will help shape next steps as the ABID Steering Group and BID Board consider how best to support the accommodation sector and visitor economy moving forward.”
The ABID Steering Group and BID Board will now review feedback gathered throughout the campaign and consider how best to continue supporting the accommodation sector and wider business community.
