NEWPORT businesses have less than a week to vote on the creation of a scheme to allow businesses to improve Newport city centre.

If businesses vote in favour, organisers of the Newport Now Business Improvement District (BID) say they will "create a safer and more attractive city centre, as well as enhancing people’s perceptions of the city through targeted, city-wide marketing campaigns."

Other services planned include support for businesses in the area through the collective purchasing of utilities and services, increasing footfall and spend through a programme of promotional events, and strengthening the voice of the business community through an improved strategic relationship with the council.

Newport Now BID say their plan has been shaped through consultation with the local business community, who identified key issues facing the town and suggested possible areas for improvement.

Alan Edwards, Chair of Newport Now and partner in Vacara’s Fish & Chips, called businesses to back the BID. “We’ve fought long and hard to get this development off the ground,” he said, “and the day of judgement has finally arrived. It’s time for the businesses of Newport to cast their vote, and I hope they will choose to back the proposed BID. This is our opportunity to take control of our future, and our city’s future, and we should grab it with both hands. I’m confident that a BID will bring the boost to business that Newport really needs.”

The closing date for the BID ballot is 5pm on Wednesday 3rd December.