Businesses have voted in favour of the new Westside Business Improvement District (BID) - an expanded body that takes over from the former Broad Street BID.

Broad Street BID was wound-up at the end of March this year, with businesses balloted on its successor organisation at the end of June.

The enlarged new bid covers Broad Street, Brindleyplace, Five Ways, Centenary Square, Broadway Plaza and surrounding areas

In all 99.75 per cent of businesses in the area voted for the new BID, which will now run for a five-year term.

It will be financed via a 1-2 per cent levy on rateable value, which will be collected by Birmingham City Council

The new BID will be aiming to build upon the legacy of the Broad Street BID and provide the same services in new areas, such as Broadway Plaza.

Announcing its go-ahead a statement issued by the new BID said it would be working towards creating “a more attractive, better marketed, more developed, brighter, safer and cleaner business environment”.

Westside BID chairman Sam Lawrence said: “The success of the ballot indicates an increasingly positive sign for businesses in Westside.

“We will now be able to deliver a variety of services, that we have previously done with Broad Street BID, including developmental and environmental enhancements to the area that will no doubt continue to make the experience of

those who work and visit here an impressive one.

“The BID will persist in further attracting events, investment, employment and visitors.”

Mike Olley, Westside BID manager, added: “The outstanding result exhibits how businesses have understood the potential of a BID due to our previous two terms as Broad Street BID.

“It shows the trust businesses have developed in the BID due to its hard work and devotion to improving the area.

“We will now continue ensuring footfall and investment will further be increased through promotion and enhancement of the region.

“Our aim is to guarantee Westside’s varied market mix remains on the national and international map.

“I’d also like to thank the local businesses in the area who have worked so well with the BID - this success has only been achieved thanks to their efficiency and commitment.

“We hope we can continue to build on our previous accomplishments.”