NEWPORT city centre businesses have backed plans for a Business Improvement District (BID).

The ballot BID results were released today, with 88 per cent of those who voted saying yes.

The turnout was 23 per cent.

Social media was awash with tweets of celebration and messages of congratulations.

Newport councillor Chris Evans said: "I think our traders have made the right decision - let's get out and support them."

Newport business consultant Roger Hiscott tweeted: "Congratulations to all involved - another step forward for a city on the rise."

Your South Wales Argus also backed the BID proposal.

Editor Kevin Ward said on Twitter: "Great news that city centre businesses have voted for @Newport_BID"

And the Newport Now BID team said: "Congratulations and Celebrations! Businesses in Newport city centre are backing the BID."

It is anticipated that more than £1 million wll be invested in the city as part of the plans, with improvements proposed to take place over the next five years.

Plans include using a levy, collected from city centre businesses, to enhance Newport’s image, improve security, increase footfall and create a better offer of food and drink outlets.

Among the planned improvements is a focus on creating a safer and more attractive city centre, as well as enhancing people’s perceptions of the city through city-wide marketing campaigns.

There will also be support for businesses in the area through the collective purchasing of utilities and services and increasing footfall and spending through promotional events.

Newport would have only the third BID to be formed in Wales, the others being Swansea and Merthyr.

***UPDATE***

William Graham AM said he was pleased to see such a large number of business people supporting action to regenerate Newport City Centre

“As a local businessman I supported Newport BID (Business Improvement District), therefore I and pleased to see the support from 88% of businesses," he said.

“I congratulate the BID team, and everyone involved in this fantastic result. I am sure that action of the proposals will drive forward the further regeneration of our city”.

“There are many successful examples of local businesses working in collaboration to create the right environment to attract a wider customers base and revive the economic fortunes of their towns and city’s”.