City businesses to vote on Exeter's future
InExeter, the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), has unveiled its 2025-2030 Business Plan ahead of the upcoming BID Ballot in November.
This crucial vote, held every five years as required by BID regulations, will give businesses the opportunity to vote on securing investment for services that benefit the commercial district and the appeal of the city centre.
The launch event was hosted at Castle Fine Art on Friday 11 October. Local businesses were joined by the InExeter team, Board of Directors, MP Steve Race and Exeter City Council Leader Phil Bialyk. As well as the published Business Plan, InExeter shared a short film showcasing the impact of the BID’s work in the city.
InExeter: A decade of impact
The BID has been serving city businesses for 10 years with over £5million invested in the last decade. Collective contributions from all businesses have funded Exeter’s iconicChristmas light displays, award winning planting and greening, dedicated street cleansing services for businesses, vibrant street art, and events and markets that draw people to the city centre.
Nicola Wheeler, CEO of InExeter, said, “We believe in the power of our business community coming together to tackle challenges and seize opportunities for the benefit of the city. Over the past decade, we've built a strong presence and a united voicethat truly represents the interests of Exeter’s businesses.”
Looking ahead: The next 5 years
The BID’s ambition for the next 5-year term is firmly focussed on city safety for the daytime, evening and nighttime economies, ensuring the city remains welcoming and attractive and celebrating Exeter’s distinctive qualities.
Proposed new initiatives include subsidised radio communications for all levy paying businesses, targeted support to help businesses become more sustainable and 10 new street art commissions in the city centre.
A ‘yes’ vote for businesses will also ensure the continuation of vital projects and services including the recently mobilised Community Safety Team, 7-day street cleansing, the annual Christmas light displays and greening and planting initiativesin the heart of the city.
Mithat Ishak, owner of Ari’s Healthy Life on Sidwell Street, expressed his support, saying: “As a small business owner, I will be voting ‘yes’ for InExeter to continue the vital role they play not just in our street, but across the city.”
Jack Nex, Deputy Head of Branch at John Lewis & Partners, added: “Without InExeter, I don’t think our city centre would be as clean, safe, or attractive as it is now. Their work is invaluable.”
Securing Exeter’s bright future
Reflecting on the BID's journey, Nicola Wheeler concluded, “Ten years in and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and are excited to build on this for the future. Towns and cities thrive when BID organisations like InExeter lead the way, collaborating with partners and statutory agencies to drive positive change. We are a small but dynamic team, working on the ground every day, and we’re eager to continue serving Exeter’s business community for another five years. We stronly encourage all members to vote ‘yes’ in the upcoming Ballot, so we can secure a prosperous future for our city.”
Ballot papers will be distributed to all eligible businesses within the BID area on 22 October. The vote will close at 5pm on 21 November, with the results announced the following day. To pass, the BID must receive a majority both in the number of votes cast and in the total rateable value of those voting.
