Controversial proposals for a Business Improvement District (BID) in Rye will be discussed at the town hall on Monday 26 January.
The plans are on the agenda for the full meeting of Rye Town Council at 6.30pm, along with the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition.
Voting for the Rye BID continues until 12 February. Around 290 of the town’s shops, pubs, restaurants and businesses are being balloted on a new levy which could raise over £90,000 for town centre upgrades and tourist promotion each year.
The proposals have created a divided high street with some businesses saying the BID is the only way to improve Rye town centre in the face of local government cutbacks. Opponents say a BID is unnecessary, another financial commitment in a tough economic climate, and a tax they will be forced to pay even if they disagree.
Councillors will debate taking part in the ballot and whether the town hall is for or against the proposals during Monday’s meeting. Rye Town Council is entitled to two votes as it is responsible for two rateable addresses – the Town Hall and The Strand public conveniences.
Also on the agenda: the Government recently announced plans for a UK Town of Culture in 2028 and councillors will decide whether to express an interest in the competition. The winning town will be awarded £3 million to deliver a cultural programme in 2028 of around six months. Additionally, the two finalists from their category will receive £250,000 each to deliver elements of their bid.
You can find the full agenda for the meeting at Rye Town Hall – along with supporting documents on the Rye Town Council website.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .