Elgin’s Business Improvement District has failed to win the backing it needed to continue.
The renewal ballot did not secure enough support to extend the scheme for another five years.
Despite the push from Elgin BID’s management and Board of Directors, the votes simply weren’t there.
The BID, which launched in 2010, has worked to promote the city centre as a destination for shoppers, residents and visitors alike.
From street events to seasonal campaigns, it has tried to inject life into the town centre and boost business footfall.
It has also offered collaborative support to local traders and worked on various regeneration projects.
Over the years, BID-backed projects have included festive lighting, marketing drives and schemes to enhance civic pride.
Many businesses have benefitted from shared promotions and opportunities to reach wider audiences.
But the recent vote spells an end to BID’s formal role in driving these efforts.
The result means the BID will now come to an end once its current term expires.
The board will now meet to decide what, if anything, can be salvaged or repurposed from BID’s legacy.
Some in the business community have voiced disappointment, while others say it’s time for a new approach.
There are calls for open discussion about what kind of support structure could replace BID’s role.
Attention now turns to how Elgin can continue its progress without the funding and coordination BID offered.
