They spend it at any participating shop, café, or service.
Deliver visible improvements that strengthen the trading environment and enhance the experience for residents and visitors.
Receive Shop Local vouchers and approved expenses, ensuring your contribution is recognised while supporting local businesses.
Operate within a clear approval framework that aligns with the BID Business Plan and provides oversight, visibility and support.
James Kennedy and Norrie MacLean volunteered their time to power wash benches along the High Street and the area outside Tweedale Apartments.
The impact:
Well-maintained public areas support footfall, pride in place and the overall trading environment.
Volunteer projects are supported across the defined BID area, not just the High Street. If your idea benefits businesses within the BID boundary, we will consider it.
BID Fort William covers a defined area within the town centre, including the main high street and surrounding commercial zones. Businesses within this boundary that meet the rateable value threshold are required to pay the annual levy and are automatically members of the BID.
Volunteers receive £25 in Shop Local vouchers for a half day, £50 in Shop Local vouchers for a full day and approved expenses reimbursed. This ensures recognition while keeping spend within the local business community. See how the Shop Local vouchers work below:
Customer purchases a Fort William voucher online or in person.
They spend it at any participating shop, café, or service.
A number of businesses have already signed up, like the Nevis Centre, The Granite House, Highland Soap and many more.
Business submits the voucher and is reimbursed by the BID.
Spend recirculates, supporting jobs and a vibrant town centre.
No. Anyone can volunteer, provided the project benefits the BID area.
Yes. We actively encourage practical ideas that improve the trading environment.
This depends on the project. Requirements are agreed during the approval stage.
Projects are reviewed to ensure appropriate oversight and risk awareness before approval.
Typically within a short review period, depending on the scale of the project. Each project is taken to the monthly board meetings and either approved, a request made for more information or rejected.