The team behind Halesowen BID are hitting the high street to drum up support from local businesses ahead of their re-ballot in the Summer.

The team, led by town centre manager Vicky Rogers, are speaking to traders to ask for their vote when the polls open.

A Business Improvement District is a defined area in which a levy is charged on top of a companies business rates. This money is used to develop projects, in addition to services provided by local authorities, which will benefit those businesses and the communities around them.

Every five years a BID has to put itself through a re-approval process where traders get the opportunity to vote on whether they'd like the service to continue and the additional levy to remain in place.

Halesowen BID was initially formed in 2017 and operates from offices on Somers Square. Since their incorporation they've spearheaded a number of projects including the installation of a trader's radio system to enhance security in the town, decorated street furniture to brighten up surroundings and a number of high profile events, including regular street markets and Christmas light switch on's which attract thousands of residents each year..

They've also spearheaded projects for young people including urban beaches and Easter egg hunts and run historic trails around the town to showcase its heritage. Town centre manager, Vicky Rogers said:

"As we approach our re-ballot, we have been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement we've received from our local businesses and traders. 

"This is a hugely important time for our town and an exciting time for us to share our ideas and visions on how the BID can further implement the changes needed to help Halesowen thrive.

"We've had a huge amount of success in our first term and we're just getting started in making the changes our town needs to encourage a fruitful economic climate and vibrant community to allow business to grow."

Ballot sheets will be received throughout June with the result being announced formally on 10th July.