Elgin BID fails to win new term - but group ‘proud’ of achievements
Elgin BID has said it is “proud” of the work it has done in the town over the last 15 years after narrowly being voted out in a renewal ballot.
The Elgin Business Improvement District (BID) was rejected, with 52 per cent against and 48 per cent in favour - with a turnout of 34 per cent.
Out of 422 eligible voters, 132 voters turned out. Of these, 63 votes backed BID’s renewal while 69 opposed it.
Moray Council previously agreed to abstain from the ballot, a decision taken in January of this year.
In an email to members, Elgin BID said: “We want to sincerely thank everyone who supported Elgin BID in the recent renewal ballot.
“Unfortunately, the ballot did not return the result required for us to continue, and as a result, Elgin BID will cease operations with immediate effect.
“This marks the end of a chapter that has seen Elgin BID deliver a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving the town centre – from events and promotions to direct business support, partnerships, and environmental improvements.
“We are proud of what’s been achieved, and grateful to the businesses who have supported that work.
“The BID will now begin a formal wind-down process, and our team will ensure this is carried out smoothly and responsibly.”
Councillor Sandy Keith (Labour, Elgin City North), was disappointed with the vote’s result.
He said: “I am sad that the businesses of central Elgin have voted to end the BID.
“Obviously it is a matter for the businesses concerned, but I feel that the decision comes at a time when there is record investment going into Elgin from the Labour Government and exciting times lie ahead.
“There will be no unified business voice going forward and it puts in jeopardy things like the farmers markets and the fight against seagulls, which BID was deeply involved in.
“I think that the SNP and Tory Councillors who voted to prevent Moray Council taking a position on the continuation of BID was a big mistake and set the background to this vote as it gave out the view that the council doesn’t care about the development and economic health of the centre of Elgin – that is to their eternal shame.
“Personally, I am going to miss all the BID staff who tried their best, were great ambassadors for the town centre and who made a difference. I hope that they can secure alternative employment as soon as possible.”
SNP Councillor Jérémie Fernandes (SNP, Elgin City North) added: “This result shows that businesses in Elgin were split on whether the BID should continue.
"Given how close the vote was, it reinforces that Moray Council made the right decision in choosing to abstain.
“Taking a position would have influenced the outcome in a way that didn’t fairly reflect the views of the business community.
"If a majority had backed the renewal, the council would have fully supported the BID.
“But ultimately, that decision rightly belongs to the businesses themselves.
“Now, it’s for them to consider the next steps and decide on a structure that best meets their needs.”
