Belfast One BID Secures Third Term Following Business Vote

Belfast One Business Improvement District (BID) has secured a third five-year term after city centre businesses overwhelmingly voted in favour of renewing the organisation's mandate until 2031.

The ballot result saw 94.1% of participating businesses back the continuation of the BID, paving the way for more than £5.5 million to be invested in Belfast city centre over the next five years.

Representing more than 700 businesses across a range of sectors, Belfast One works to support the city centre through initiatives aimed at increasing footfall, improving the visitor experience and enhancing the trading environment.

Business Improvement Districts are funded through a levy paid by eligible businesses within a defined area, allowing investment in additional services and projects beyond those provided by local authorities. These can include marketing campaigns, enhanced security measures, environmental improvements and business support programmes.

Now entering its third term, Belfast One has operated in the city centre for the past decade and has delivered a range of initiatives including the City Centre Beat Team, late-night transport schemes and support for Belfast's night-time economy.

Chief Executive Martina Connolly welcomed the result, describing it as a strong endorsement from the business community.

She said the successful ballot demonstrated the confidence businesses have in the BID and the impact of its work over previous terms.

Looking ahead, Belfast One's new business plan will focus on improving cleanliness and safety within the city centre while continuing efforts to address anti-social behaviour.

The organisation also intends to champion major infrastructure and regeneration projects, including the proposed North South Glider route and the regeneration of Royal Avenue and Castle Street.

Popular initiatives such as the Belfast City Centre Gift Card and the City Centre Clean Team will continue, alongside enhanced support for members through business insights, data and practical assistance across the retail, hospitality and professional services sectors.