What is a BID

A BID (Business Improvement District) is a geographically defined area where businesses come together and agree to invest collectively in projects and services which improve their trading environment.

It is a business-led body formed to improve a defined commercial area. Funded by businesses, for the benefit of those businesses, a BID enables a coordinated investment into the area and delivers projects and services which are in addition to, and enhance, those already provided by the Councils.

A BID is a not-for-profit company, which can only be formed following consultation and a ballot in which businesses vote on a BID proposal. Following a successful ballot, a BID is created for a maximum five-year term and operates within a legislative framework. During the term, all businesses defined within the business plan will be required to pay the mandatory BID levy, irrespective of whether they cast a vote in the ballot.

BIDs were first established in Canada and the US, and now exist across the world. There are more than 300 BIDs in the UK, including Bath, Bristol, Swindon, Salisbury and Worcester.

Our Promises for our new term

BID Levy

Cheltenham BID is funded by an annual 1.3% levy (or 1.04% for tenants in service-charged centres and non-retail charities) of the rateable value as of 1 March 2026 based on the 2023 rating list. The levy is payable in one instalment at the start of the financial year (1 April). The BID levy will be applied to all businesses within the defined area with a rateable value of £15,000 and above, provided they are listed on the National Non-Domestic rates list as provided by Cheltenham Borough Council.

Business included within our zone will be included and therefore will be legally required to pay the BID levy. Non-retail charities with no trading income, arm or facilities, not-for-profit subscription and volunteer-based organisations will be charged at 1%.

To check the rateable value of your premises, visit the Valuation Office Agency website.

Eligibility to participate in BID programmes, promotions, and activities is contingent upon the business being up to date with its BID levy payments. The BID reserves the right to withdraw or refuse participation where levy payments are outstanding OR BID activities are funded by levy-paying businesses; therefore, participation is limited to those who are up to date with their levy contributions.

Outstanding Balances and Debt Collection
We kindly ask that all invoices are paid within the stated terms. If you are experiencing any difficulty making payment, please contact us as soon as possible so we can discuss options and support you.

Please note that the Council is our collection agent. If a balance remains unpaid and no payment arrangement is agreed, the debt will be referred to a debt recovery team – no additional costs will be added. We encourage you to speak to the Council team at the earliest convenience if you have any concerns regarding your account.