Town centre firms have given their nod for the development of a new Business Improvement District (BID) in Slough.

Slough Borough Council says the BID will deliver more than £2 million of investment over its five-year term, which starts on April 1, 2020, and will see the delivery of projects aimed at “improving the environment” to do business in Slough town centre.

The investment comes from a levy on the rateable value of business properties, and it is expected that the BID will be able to get additional funding from other sources.

A steering group of the town’s businesses working with Slough Borough Council and others has driven the BID project, and projects fall into five categories: safe and secure, environment, marketing and events, business support and representation.

Chairman of the steering group, Andrew Wright, from Kingdom Property Services said: “We are delighted that businesses have recognised the difference that a BID can make to Slough Town Centre.

“Slough has such a lot going for it and we hope the BID can be an essential part of the growth and prosperity of the town centre.”

Matt Powell, director of Revive & Thrive, the organisation which worked with businesses in the town to develop the BID, said: “Having seen the positive impact that BIDs are having all across the country, this is great news for all those who run businesses in, live, work or visit Slough.

“This vote means that Slough businesses now have the chance to put their town back on the map.”

Cllr Martin Carter, cabinet member for inclusive growth and skills, said: “This is fantastic news for Slough and I am pleased so many businesses want to play a part in improving the town centre.

“Slough like many town centres across the UK is facing an increasingly difficult economic climate and the BID will give businesses the opportunity to help shape improvements to the High Street, which will benefit them as well as residents and visitors.

“The BID is an exciting new addition to our plan to keep the town centre clean, safe and vibrant whilst we plan for large scale regeneration.”

The BID will be governed by a board of directors, made up of business representatives in the town centre, and a recruitment event will be taking place later in the year.

To get involved and find out more about it, visit www.sloughbid.co.uk or email info@sloughbid.co.uk.