Businesses in Harrogate have voted against plans to introduce a new Accommodation Business Improvement District, known as an ABID.
The proposal would have created a locally controlled fund, paid for by accommodation providers, to help promote the town, attract more overnight visitors and support the long-term growth of Harrogate’s tourism industry.
The idea had been developed over 18 months, with consultation involving hotels and other accommodation businesses.
The result of the ballot has now been confirmed, with businesses voting not to go ahead with the scheme.
Dan Siddle, General Manager of The Crown Hotel and Co-Chair of the ABID, said:
“Many local managers recognised the benefits for the town, but some national operators take a different position on levies, which ultimately influenced the result.
"We respect the vote and thank all businesses that engaged constructively in the process.”
Simon Cotton, Managing Director of the Fat Badger Group and Co-Chair of the ABID, said:
“The conversations over the past year have underlined how important tourism remains to the town’s prosperity.
"While this ballot has not secured the mandate required, we remain committed to working collaboratively with the accommodation sector to explore other ways to strengthen and promote our destination.”
Simon Midgley, Chair of Harrogate BID, said:
“The BID was proud to lead and fund this project from its inception through to ballot as part of our commitment to supporting the long-term success of the town.
"We firmly believed the ABID offered an opportunity to unlock additional, ring-fenced investment dedicated specifically to growing overnight stays.
“Although the result is not what we had hoped for, our focus remains on delivering value for businesses and continuing to work proactively with partners to strengthen the town centre and wider visitor economy.”
The ABID Steering Group and BID Board will now review the feedback and consider alternative ways to support accommodation providers and the wider business community in Harrogate.
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