What is a BID?
A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area where local businesses come together to invest in projects and services that benefit the commercial environment. BIDs are business-led, locally managed, and funded through a small levy on eligible properties.
The money collected is used to deliver projects decided by the business community-focusing on improvements that go beyond what the local authority already provides. The money is kept locally, and spent locally, for the benefit of the local area.Why is a BID good for Fort William?
A Stronger Voice
A BID gives businesses a collective voice and a shared platform to shape the future of the town centre. It puts decision-making in the hands of the people who know the local economy best.
Investment Where It Matters
The BID supports projects that improve the look, feel, and functionality of Fort William - making it a more attractive, welcoming, and accessible place for everyone.
Support for Local Businesses
Through marketing campaigns, events, loyalty schemes, and direct engagement, the BID helps drive footfall, raise visibility, and support the day-to-day needs of levy-paying businesses.
What is a BID?
A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area in which businesses work together and invest collectively in local improvements. It gives business owners a stronger voice, more influence, and the ability to shape decisions that affect their trading environment.
Across Scotland and the wider UK, BIDs have already helped hundreds of towns and city centres unlock new potential, attract more visitors, and enhance the everyday experience for businesses and communities alike.
The BID Area
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.
About the Ballot
In early 2024, local businesses had their say on whether Fort William should have a Business Improvement District (BID). Business Improvement Districts operate in five year terms.
What were the results?
- 354 businesses were eligible to vote
- 107 voted
- 66 said yes
- That’s a 30.18% turnout
This met the legal threshold – by both number of votes and rateable value – for the BID to go ahead.
As a result, the BID is now in place for a five-year term, running from 2024 to 2029. It’s funded through a levy on eligible properties in the town.
Meet the Team
BID Development Manager
Mary is leading the Fort William BID with a focus on local impact, collaboration, and long-term business growth. With a background in digital strategy, community engagement, and business development, Mary brings a practical and passionate approach to helping Fort William thrive.
She’s your first point of contact for any questions about the BID or getting involved.
How was the BID defined?
As part of the BID proposal stage in 2024, the area was carefully defined to include Fort William’s core trading zones. The aim was to unite businesses within the immediate town centre while also incorporating key commercial areas on the edge of town that contribute directly to the local economy. Through one-to-one consultations during the development process, it became clear that many issues and priorities were shared across sectors, supporting the case for a coordinated approach to investment and improvement.
How is the BID levy calculated?
The levy is based on the Rateable Value (RV) of your property, as set by the Scottish Assessors Association.
Each business within the Fort William BID area pays a fixed annual levy, depending on which Rateable Value band they fall into. These can be found within the Business Plan.
How does it work?
The BID operates under a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. The levy is collected annually by The Highland Council and transferred to the BID company to be spent according to an agreed business plan.
The BID is overseen by a volunteer board of local business representatives. Governance follows the standards set by Scotland’s Improvement Districts, with financial reporting, annual meetings, and direct business engagement.
The BID Project Manager is responsible for delivering projects in line with the business plan, while also responding to emerging priorities and changes in the town’s trading environment.
Every levy payer is entitled to vote when the BID comes up for renewal (2029).
What happens if I don’t pay?
The levy is legally enforceable in the same way as business rates and will be pursued by Highland Council on behalf of the BID.
Can I opt out?
Once the BID is voted in and approved, payment of the levy is mandatory for all eligible ratepayers in the area. If you believe the BID levy has been improperly charged, please contact the Highland Council’s rates collection team directly on 01463 702984 or via nondomesticrates@highland.
How do I update my contact or billing details?
Please contact the Highland Council using the details below.
01463 702984 or via nondomesticrates@highland.