Businesses must have say in city’s future

Sir, - Dundee city centre has been referenced recently by MSPs and local councillors in articles about the Scottish Election and the closure of shops.

I think it relevant that there has been no mention of the 2015 Business Improvement District proposal which was set to deliver £1.5 million of new investment into the traditional city centre.

After all, BIDs are cross-party governmental policy which allow businesses to take matters into their own hands and collectively invest in their trading environment.

Last year, more eligible businesses voted for than against a BID with more than 100 backing a business plan that was to deliver solutions to many of the issues which politicians have raised of late.

All projects were identified by the business community through a thorough consultation.

To date, only one of the 60 BID projects is being delivered: a wild-in-art trail which is set to drive footfall to all corners of Dundee city centre this summer.

As some will know, despite a majority, those who voted no held a greater collective rateable value which meant the BID did not go ahead.

This was exacerbated by a significant voter abstaining at the last minute. Positively, a second BID proposal has been backed by the Scottish Government and consultation will commence this year.

In addition to allowing business owners a say in managing their city centre it will give the politicians an opportunity to engage and support the city centre businesses. Neil Cooney. 15 Glenfeshie Road, Dundee.