Selkirk is looking forward to bringing in more business and tourists to the town as a result of their Business Improvement District (BID) status. The town is the first in the Scottish Borders to make use of the scheme.
Last year, businesses in the town voted to introduce the scheme which sees them contribute to a pot of money dependent on their size. The group can then decide how best to spend the money to increase footfall and trade. They can also apply for funding due to the not-for-profit nature of the group.
Plans to improve the town include online marketing through social media and a website, improved signage for tourists and developing options for the vacant properties in the town.
Local MSP, Rachael Hamilton, recently met with Selkirk BIDs to hear about their plans for the town.
Rachael Hamilton MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh & Berwickshire said ‘It was great to have the opportunity to meet with Jane and Selkirk BID group recently. Seeing businesses in the town collaborating to drive economic activity will be vital to ensuring a prosperous future for Selkirk.’
‘I heard about their plans to secure more funding and their ideas to drive further growth in the town. Their new online presence will also help to boost the town in this modern day era of tourism and online shopping’
‘I really hope that we will see Selkirk thriving as a result of this scheme’
Dr Jane McKenzie, BID Manager, Selkirk BIDS said afterwards ‘We are delighted to have Rachael’s support for the Selkirk BID.’
‘There is so much potential for the town and in the next few years we will see some exciting improvements to support town centre businesses and the wider Selkirk Community’