Bangor’s city centre businesses will vote this autumn on whether to renew Bangor First, the Business Improvement District (BID) that has operated for nearly ten years, aiming to revitalise the High Street.

The ballot, conducted by Cyngor Gwynedd, will open on October 30, 2025, and close on November 27. If successful, the BID will continue for a third five-year term from April 2026 to March 2031, raising approximately £138,000 each year from a levy on business rates.

Achievements of the BID

Since its inception in 2015, Bangor First has funded additional security patrols and CCTV support, organised seasonal events and decorations, and supported marketing efforts in the city. It has also initiated greening projects and shopfront improvements. Notably, the BID provided targeted business support to rescue Bwyd Da Bangor, a community initiative, when it faced closure.

Opposition from Small Businesses

Despite these achievements, many small businesses have expressed frustration with the scheme. Critics argue that the 1.5% levy on a property’s rateable value is burdensome for independent businesses that are already struggling with high costs and reduced footfall.

Business owners opposed to the renewal have also questioned whether the BID’s events and promotions provide enough direct returns for their contributions, especially given the ongoing challenges of vacant units and online competition impacting the High Street.

Future Plans for Bangor First

If renewed, Bangor First aims to prioritise the following four areas from 2026 to 2031:

  1. Safety and Environment: Increase visible patrols, collaborate closely with North Wales Police, introduce new planters, maintain cleaner streets, and provide festive security support.
  2. Business Support: Offer free workshops, grant advice, networking opportunities, and a loyalty card scheme linking Bangor and Caernarfon.
  3. Events and Promotions: Organise larger seasonal events, school holiday activities, and expanded marketing campaigns.
  4. Identity and Culture: Celebrate Bangor’s heritage through art and signage, promote the Welsh language with Menter Iaith, and enhance walking and cycling links.

The levy will remain set at 1.5% of the rateable value for eligible businesses. For the renewal to be successful, it must receive majority support both in terms of the number of businesses voting and the total rateable value represented.

The Ballot

For the renewal to pass, the BID must secure a majority vote, both in the number of businesses voting and in the total rateable value they represent.

If approved, Bangor First would enter its third term with a focus on safety, business support, events, and culture. If not, its initiatives would cease at the end of its current mandate in March 2026.

Images: Bangor First