A PROPOSAL to create a Business Improvement District (BID) - which could see more than £1million invested into Newport city centre is being launched today.

The BID which is being funded by Newport businesses to create a safer, more attractive well-promoted commercial area in the city.

Newport businesses will next month vote on whether they would like to create the BID. called Newport Nov. and if they are happy tbr a levy based on a percentage of a business rateable value, to be collected from them.

The Newport Now proposal includes a number of city centre improvements that could be made over the next five years if businesses vote yes.

Plans include using the levy to enhance Newport's image, improve security increase footfall and create a better oar of food and create a better offer of food and drink outlets.

To improve safety the BID proposes to introduce a uniformed street ambassador scheme to confront anti-social behaviour, a taxi marshal service and a better CCTV operation.

Gateway enhancements are also proposed to improve locations where visitors will first see the city such as the bus station and the lower end of Commercial Street.

So-called 'grot spots' will also be tackled, where the BID would work with the city's street scene team.

To bring visitors to the city the BID would create a brand and marketing campaign to develop a local loyalty scheme and listings website and deliver a programme of events in the city centre.

A BID can only be formed after a consultation and a ballot, which will begin on November 5 and end on December 3. If the ballot is successful, Newport would have only the third BID to be formed in Wales.

The others are in Swansea and Merthyr.

It will be managed and operated by a not-for-profit company and paid for by an annual levy of 1.25 per cent of the rateable value of eligible business units.

The launch of the Newport Now proposal will take place tonight at the The Project Space in Commercial Street, Newport.