East Suffolk Council is urging local businesses to have their say in a ballot on the creation of a new 'Destination Business Improvement District' (BID), which includes the Felixstowe area.

A ballot is being held by Locus Management Solutions Ltd to consider proposals for 'Explore Suffolk', which, in their words would seek "to connect businesses, partners and local authorities to establish a coherent tourism offer" and would see projects delivered over and above services already funded by councils.

The BID is committing to champion the unique qualities of the South Suffolk area, thereby increasing investment and growth through promoting and celebrating our businesses, culture, heritage and natural environment and to support and represent businesses in the wider success of the South Suffolk economic area as a destination from which to explore the wider county. 

This activity would be funded by a mandatory levy on businesses in the defined zone.

Felixstowe included in Ipswich's Explore Suffolk BID)

A Business Plan has been produced outlining key information about the proposal and all businesses entitled to vote should have received a statement with:

• an explanation for the arrangement of the ballot;
• an explanation of the regulations that allows the person to request a copy of the BID proposal;
• details of the name and address of the BID proposer.

If the ballot is carried, this business-led proposal will result in an additional 1.82% levy on business properties with a rateable value over £24,500. 

East Suffolk Council itself does not have a say in the process and has not been involved in the Advisory Board. But the Council is keen for businesses affected in East Suffolk to participate in the ballot, given the impact and requirement for them to fund the 'Explore Suffolk' BID.

Cllr Vince Langdon-Morris, East Suffolk's Cabinet Member for Resources and Value for Money, said "I urge business owners who have received these BIDballot papers and voting forms to study the business case and participate in the vote.

"The BID area covers part of our district and includes locations already well served by the Felixstowe BID and "The Suffolk Coast" Destination Management Organisation (DMO).

"This is clearly a decision for businesses in the area covered and we have not been involved in the development of the proposal. But we do believe it is important that those businesses affected by the proposals are clear on the requirements and expectations, and we urge them to have their say."

The ballot is taking place entirely by post and all votes must be returned by 5pm on Thursday 19 October 2023. If businesses entitled to vote have lost their ballot paper, then a replacement ballot paper can be obtained from Ipswich Borough Council. Information is available at https://www.ipswich.gov.uk/BIDelections.