MAJOR new developments such as Croydon’s £1.5bn shopping centre threaten the success of Brighton’s retail sector, according to a report urging the renewal of the city centre’s Business Improvement District (BID).
When Croydon’s shopping centre opens in 2020 with four department stores under one roof within an hour’s travel from Brighton, it will potentially take “significant trade” from the city’s traders.
Another challenge facing traders is Brighton is increasingly seen as “difficult to access” with “expensive parking”, according to the renewal business plan for the BID.
Without a BID renewal for 2016-2021, the streets would be dark in the city centre during the all-important Christmas trading period, the report warns.
The Brighton BID, known as Brilliant Brighton, was first established in 2006 and businesses have invested £3 million to improve the trading environment and attract more visitors, including £1.8 million in the last five years.
The scheme provides services beyond those provided by the council and police, including Christmas lighting, street security, marketing and discounts for business.
In June 2016 the current BID expires and business will be asked whether they want to renew it by electronic vote on March.
Claudia Fisher, chair of Brilliant Brighton, said: "A No vote will simply mean an end to all the current services, no on street security, no hanging baskets, banners or bunting throughout the summer months and no Christmas lights come December 2016.
"We want Brighton to continue to be a fantastic place to work live and visit so I strongly urge you to carefully consider the business plan and vote in favour."
A flat rate of 1.25 per cent of rateable value is being proposed, which will mean a drop for 51 per cent of members.
Discussions are also taking place to set up separate BIDs for Hove and London Road.
But according to a recent council meeting, traders in Hove remain unconvinced about the benefits of a BID.
In London Road however, businesses are warm to the idea, with talks ongoing about the creation of a BID to be managed by the London Road Town Team (LRTT), which has already overseen the regeneration of the area following the Portas Pilot scheme.
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