AMBITIOUS plans to improve Northallerton’s High Street are being backed by high-profile business leaders ahead of the proposals going to a postal ballot.

Retailers and other small and medium-sized businesses have been working with council representatives and other organisations on how best to build on the county town’s strengths.

The proposals involve the creation of a Business Improvement District (BID), centred on the High Street, where organisations within the catchment pay a levy, based on their rateable value. The levy would fund a BID group run by local businesses that would determine how the funds are used for everyone’s benefit.

Key proposals include marketing to promote the town, new events to draw visitors in and enhancing the town’s appearance. A manager would be employed to lead the plans.

The final public opportunity for businesses to find out more about the plans ahead of a postal ballot in November takes place on September 21 at Barkers store.

Sir Gary Verity, chief executive of tourism agency Welcome to Yorkshire, will address the meeting.

He said: “Business improvement districts can bring countless benefits to a town. It is not just about creating a place where people want to come and shop, it is about being experimental and improving the town for the benefit of both visitors and residents.”

Also addressing the meeting, which takes place at Barkers store from 5.30pm, will be Johnny Hayes, chairman of York’s Bishopthorpe Road Traders Association. He helped the vibrant area of the city clinch last year’s Great British High Street award.

Northallerton BID steering group chairman and Bettys manager Lindsay Judd said: “This will be the last in a series of successful public meetings to set out what a BID would mean for Northallerton and offer a chance to ask questions.

“It will also be a great opportunity to hear these inspiring speakers. Of course, we still welcome questions and comments about the proposal at any time, not just at our public meetings.”

For months, local business leaders making up the BID steering group have led an intensive programme of consultation with owners and managers of firms within the proposed BID area – as well as visitors to the town – allowing all interested parties to help shape the BID proposal.

Every business within the BID area has had letters or visits in person from a member of the committee, encouraging people to come forward with ideas, questions and feedback.