City businesses to vote on Exeter's future

InExeter has unveiled plan

InExeter, which is the city’s Business Improvement District, has unveiled its 2025-2030 Business Plan ahead of the upcoming BID Ballot in November.

This vote, held every five years as required by BID regulations, will give businesses the opportunity to vote on securing investment for services that benefit the commercial district and the appeal of the city centre.

The launch event was hosted at Castle Fine Art on Friday 11 October. Local businesses were joined by the InExeter team, Board of Directors, MP Steve Race and Exeter City Council Leader Phil Bialyk. As well as the published Business Plan, InExeter shared a short film showcasing the impact of the BID’s work in the city.

The BID has been serving city businesses for 10 years with over £5million invested in the last decade. Collective contributions from all businesses have funded Exeter’s iconic Christmas light displays, award winning planting and greening, dedicated street cleansing services for businesses, vibrant street art, and events and markets that draw people to the city centre.

Nicola Wheeler, CEO of InExeter, said, “We believe in the power of our business community coming together to tackle challenges and seize opportunities for the benefit of the city. Over the past decade, we've built a strong presence and a united voice that truly represents the interests of Exeter’s businesses.”

The BID’s ambition for the next 5-year term is firmly focussed on city safety for the daytime, evening and nighttime economies, ensuring the city remains welcoming and attractive and celebrating Exeter’s distinctive qualities.

Proposed new initiatives include subsidised radio communications for all levy paying businesses, targeted support to help businesses become more sustainable and 10 new street art commissions in the city centre.

A ‘yes’ vote for businesses will also ensure the continuation of vital projects and services including the recently mobilised Community Safety Team, 7-day street cleansing, the annual Christmas light displays and greening and planting initiatives in the heart of the city.

Mithat Ishak, owner of Ari’s Healthy Life on Sidwell Street, expressed his support, saying: “As a small business owner, I will be voting ‘yes’ for InExeter to continue the vital role they play not just in our street, but across the city.”

Jack Nex, Deputy Head of Branch at John Lewis & Partners, added: “Without InExeter, I don’t think our city centre would be as clean, safe, or attractive as it is now. Their work is invaluable.”

Ballot papers will be distributed to all eligible businesses within the BID area on 22 October. The vote will close at 5pm on 21 November, with the results announced the following day. To pass, the BID must receive a majority both in the number of votes cast and in the total rateable value of those voting.