Agenda item

(Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility Councillor Peter Jackson)

Report of Chief Officer Sustainable Growth (report published 27.11.25)

(Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility Councillor Peter Jackson)

Cabinet received a report from the Chief Officer Sustainable Growth that provided context and information for the endorsement of proposals for a Lancaster Business Improvement District (BID) Renewal Ballot (5 February 2026) as required by the national BID statutory provisions. The report updated Members on the pre- and post- ballot issues, resource and other implications in relation to the city council’s role in the BID renewal process and as a BID levy payer.

The options, options analysis, including risk assessment and officer preferred option, were set out in the report as follows:

The Lancaster BID proposals do not conflict with any published council polices and a successful BID will continue to actively support the council’s corporate objectives particularly in the areas of Economic Growth, Clean Green & Safe Places and Community Leadership. The work of Lancaster BID in canvassing opinion and consultation show a good level of support for the way the BID proposals have been shaped.

The amount of prior discussion between the BID proposer and the local authority before submitting the BID draft proposals to the authority has been sufficient and it is expected consultation will continue up to the submission of final proposals. The costs incurred and due in developing BID proposals, canvassing and balloting have been allowed for within the BID’s current budget.

There are no advantages in holding over on endorsement pending Final Proposals (Option 1) and officers consider there are no material alterations required (Option 3). The Preferred Option is therefore Option 2, to endorse the Lancaster BID Renewal Proposals.

It follows that an appropriate level of delegated authority is required to ensure the outstanding matters are addressed and so that Lancaster BID can move forward to ballot. As these issues are mainly technical and operational it is recommended this be undertaken through delegated decision by the Chief Executive.

Councillor Peter Jackson proposed, seconded by Councillor Bottoms:-

“That the recommendations, as set out in the report, be approved.”

Councillors then voted:-

Resolved unanimously:

(1)        That the Renewal Proposals for Lancaster Business Improvement District (BID) Renewal Ballot are agreed as in compliance with the statutory requirements and are not in conflict with the council’s corporate policy framework.

(2)        That formal Endorsement of Lancaster BID final Renewal Proposal policy compliance and the issue of an instruction to proceed to ballot via UK Engage is undertaken by the Chief Executive.

(3)        That the current Operating Agreement and Baseline Agreement are revised to reflect any changes/amendments required between the parties and current council service provision respectively, with approval and post[1]ballot sign-off of the final documents delegated to the Chief Executive.

Officer responsible for effecting the decision:

Chief Office Sustainable Growth

Reasons for making the decision:

The current Lancaster BID Renewal Proposal presents an opportunity for the business community to continue to deliver additional services and activity in Lancaster City Centre on its own terms. The business representatives and Lancaster BID team at the heart of the proposal have worked to ensure their proposal reflects local issues and the activities proposed will have meaningful local impact.

The Lancaster BID renewal proposals are well aligned with the Council Plan 2024–27’s strategic priorities. The BID’s activities support economic growth, environmental improvements, partnership working, community wellbeing, and inclusivity.

A Sustainable District (The Climate Emergency) The Council Plan aims for Lancaster to be net zero carbon by 2030, focusing on biodiversity and sustainable practices. The BID’s “Green Agenda” supports this with street cleansing, graffiti removal, planters, and seasonal decorations that enhance the city centre. The BID also partners with the Council and others on sustainability, though there is room to further develop its environmental actions to fully meet council targets.

An Inclusive and Prosperous Local Economy (Community Wealth Building) The Council Plan seeks to use assets and procurement for community benefit, skills, investment, and promoting Lancaster as a destination. The BID supports a diverse business mix through events, marketing, and business support, all aimed at boosting footfall and economic activity. The BID also attracts investment and works with partners like Lancaster University and Eden North, aligning well with the Council’s economic aims.

Healthy and Happy Communities (Increasing Wellbeing, Reducing Inequality) The Council Plan focuses on clean, safe neighbourhoods and access to arts, culture, and recreation. The BID delivers events, supports arts and culture, and improves public spaces. Safety is addressed through the BID Warden, police partnership, and community safety schemes. While not directly involved in housing, the BID’s activities help create a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant city centre.

A Co-operative, Kind and Responsible Council (Delivering Effective Services, Taking Responsibility) The Council Plan commits to partnership working and effective service delivery. The BID is governed by a board representing city centre businesses and engages in regular consultation and collaborative projects. Its partnership with the Council, police, and others supports the Council’s goal of co-operative and responsible service delivery.