College backs the BID

Bedford College is backing businesses in Bedford by saying yes to another term of the Business Improvement District (BedfordBID).

Bedford was the first market town in the UK to take this bold step five years ago. Since then the BedfordBID has continued to lead the way with innovative packages and promotions to encourage spending in the town centre. 

Bedford College CEO Ian Pryce is now Chair of the BedfordBID because he believes a vibrant town centre is good for the local economy and helps create and secure local jobs.

Many Bedford College students and staff shop in the town centre every day. Now the College has pledged to buy another £50,000 worth of BedfordBID vouchers on top of the BID levy it pays. The College used to buy national gift vouchers for staff and student rewards and special payments, but now it buys only BedfordBID vouchers, thus ensuring the money can be spent only in Bedford. This is the second year running the College has spent £50,000 thus pouring £100,000 into the tills of businesses large and small.

The BedfordBID ballot will take place between 24 February and 26 March among registered levy payers. The result will be announced on 27 March on the BedfordBID website.