Rye businesses will find out on Friday 13 February if they will have to contribute to a controversial new levy. A ballot to decide on whether the Rye Business District (BID) proposal goes ahead closed at 5pm on Thursday.
The Rye BID could raise £90,000 annually for town centre improvements and tourist promotion over five years. The charges qualifying businesses would be made to pay, if the proposal is approved, are based on each firm’s rateable value.
Around 290 of the town’s shops, pubs, restaurants and businesses took part in the postal vote.
Supporters say 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.
For the BID to be approved, the vote has to be won by both a majority of yes votes and a majority of the businesses rateable values.
The postal ballot was organised by Civica who provide election services for Rother District Council. The returning officer is RDC’s chief executive, Lorna Ford, who will announce the result.
If approved, Rye BID would come into force in April this year.
Rye News will have the result as soon as it is announced, with more details and reaction next week.
Image Credits: Sue Forman .