News

We are very pleased to share how the BID Fort William has contributed significantly to the festive enhancement of the town centre by funding new Christmas lighting infrastructure that will benefit businesses, visitors and residents for many years to come.

There’s plenty of spooky fun to enjoy in Fort William this Halloween. Whether you’re planning family activities, looking for seasonal treats, or hunting for the perfect costume, the town has something for everyone. Here’s a quick guide to what’s happening and where to find it.

If you’ve recently walked along Fort William High Street, you may have noticed something new catching the eye — a striking mural now gracing the side of The Highland Bookshop. This vibrant piece of public art is more than decoration; it’s a story of family, healing, and the enduring creative spirit that links Scotland’s Highlands to New Zealand.

The Ben Nevis Guest House recently applied for a Property Improvement Grant to replace and upgrade the fencing surrounding their car park and gardens. The previous fence, while functional, had not been built to withstand the unique local weather conditions and required frequent maintenance.

Comms West, a local internet service provider based in the Ben Nevis Industrial Estate, recently applied for a Property Improvement Grant to enhance the exterior of their new premises.

Learn how BID Fort William makes decisions: from business plan priorities and levy payer feedback to board review.

Highland Cinema in Fort William has been nominated for the British Independent Film Awards Cinema of the Year 2025. The cinema is a key cultural hub for Lochaber, supporting local businesses and drawing visitors into the town centre. By voting for Highland Cinema, you are helping to raise Fort William’s profile nationally while backing the High Street and our community.

BID Fort William is inviting mural artists to apply for an exciting new public art commission in the heart of the town centre. We’re seeking proposals that will transform the gable end of 129 High Street into a cultural landmark. A Gateway to the High Street Positioned at one of the main entry points to […]

At BID Fort William, we are pleased to welcome three new directors to our Board: David MacGillivray, Lesley Main, and John Cameron. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will play a vital role in delivering our business plan and driving forward initiatives that benefit our town. Our Directors New Directors David MacGillivray – Shiel BusesAs Managing […]

A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area where businesses work together to invest in local improvements that they have identified as priorities. These improvements are funded through a levy agreed by the businesses themselves and are delivered in addition to the services provided by the local authority. Across Scotland, BIDs have been used to strengthen town centres, support local economies, and create cleaner, safer, more welcoming environments for businesses, residents and visitors alike.

BID Fort William has launched two new funding schemes to support local businesses and boost town centre activity. The Property Improvement Scheme offers match funding to smarten up shopfronts and public-facing premises, while the Event Support Scheme provides financial help to develop new or existing events that attract visitors and drive local spending.

Looking to bring a burst of energy to the Highlands during the quieter months? The Highland Council’s brand-new Strategic Events Grant Fund for 2025/26 is here to help you make it happen. Backed by a £75,000 allocation from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and rubber-stamped by the Economy and Infrastructure Committee on 29 May, this […]

BID Fort William is now inviting nominations for our first Board of Directors—and we’re looking for local business owners and representatives like you to get involved. If you’re passionate about the future of Fort William’s town centre, this is your opportunity to help lead meaningful projects, represent your sector, and make a difference in the […]

  BID Fort William is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Philip as its new Project Manager. Mary brings over a decade of experience in marketing, digital communications, and project delivery. She has worked with businesses across the Highlands and beyond, helping them improve visibility, strengthen their brand, and connect with their communities. She […]

We are delighted to be welcoming MV World Voyager on her maiden visit to Fort William on Friday 20/09/24 from 11:00 hours to 17:00 hours (revised departure time from 19:00 hrs) in the usual anchoring location as follows:56° 49’.05 N 005° 07’.6 W , Size: 9,934 tonnes, Max Passengers: 196, No. Crew: 125.World Voyager is […]