Birmingham’s Colmore Business Improvement District will continue for a second term following a Yes vote from organisations in the city’s commercial quarter.

Some 94 per cent polled were in favour out of a turnout of 61 per cent of those qualified to vote -  one of the highest turnouts for a renewal BID ballot in the country.

The second term, which will start in April, will see Colmore BID invest a budget of approximately £4 million over the next five years to continue to deliver improvement projects and services to the business quarter.

These include schemes such as the enhancement of Cornwall Street and the space outside Snow Hill Station.

Other priorities include improving safety, making the district more accessible and producing promotional events for the area.

Chair of Colmore Business District Gary Cardin said: “We are delighted to have had such a positive response from our levy payers and look forward to building on the successes of our first term to continue to make a positive and valuable impact on the area.

 “There is much scope for more public realm improvements, festivals and events, and more ways to bring the business community together. All our projects and services will continue to be in addition to the baseline services provided by Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police.

“We will continue to provide an influential voice for our businesses and liaise directly with stakeholders and the right authorities to address key issues affecting the area.

"I wish to thank our levy payers for their support and am excited by what Colmore BID will bring to the area over the next five years.”

During its first term, Colmore BID invested over £3 million on projects and services to enhance the district. These included improvement projects such as the creation of Church Street Square and enhancement of Livery Street Wall; introduction of street wardens and the BID’s own Police Community Support Officer.

Events included annual food and film festivals, arts markets and photographic exhibitions.