Ashbourne Votes ‘Yes’ to Business Improvement District

Businesses across Ashbourne have voted to establish the first Business Improvement District (BID) in Derbyshire Dales District Council, securing increased investment, collaboration and growth over the next five years.

Officially launching on 1st December 2026, the BID gives the local business community direct control over marketing, events, footfall initiatives, environmental upgrades and business support.

A Landmark Vote

The BID Steering Group Chair Anne Wright welcomed the landmark result, “We are delighted that businesses have voted to establish the first Business Improvement District for Ashbourne. This is a landmark moment and a clear demonstration of the confidence that local businesses have in working together to shape the future of our town.

The BID will create a strong, united voice for the business community and provide the resources needed to deliver meaningful projects and services that will make a real difference in Ashbourne. On behalf of the Steering Group, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the development of the BID proposal and all those who participated in the ballot process. We look forward to building on this momentum and delivering positive outcomes for businesses over the coming years.”

Strengthening The Local Economy

Jane Hough, Deputy Director for BIDs at Groundwork CLM, said: “Achieving a successful first term BID ballot is a significant accomplishment and reflects the hard work, commitment and vision demonstrated by the Steering Group and local businesses throughout the development process.

Businesses have recognised the value of investing collectively to address shared priorities and strengthen the area’s future competitiveness. We congratulate everyone involved and look forward to supporting Ashbourne into the delivery phase as the BID begins implementing its exciting programme of projects and initiatives.”

Derbyshire Dales District Council Leader Councillor Steve Flitter said “This successful ballot is fantastic news for Ashbourne and demonstrates the ambition and commitment of our business community. The creation of the area’s first Business Improvement District represents an important step forward in strengthening the local economy, enhancing the town centre and supporting long term growth. We look forward to working alongside the BID and local businesses to help deliver initiatives that will benefit businesses, residents and visitors alike.”

A Partnership Approach

The BID was developed in partnership with Groundwork, widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading BID authorities, with more than 20 years of experience and existing responsibility for managing 14 active BIDs. The 18-month consultation and development phase was led by Jane Hough, Greville Kelly and John Graham of Groundwork Cheshire, Lancashire and Merseyside (CLM), working in collaboration with Groundwork Five Counties. As a result of this vote, more than 1 in 4 Groundwork Trusts now see Business Improvement Districts delivered in their areas of operation.

This federation approach enabled the local business community and key partners to benefit from specialist BID expertise, drawing on the extensive BID development and management experience available across the Groundwork network, particularly through the dedicated BID team at Groundwork CLM. 

Next Steps & Information

The BID will now enters it mobilisation phase, which includes forming the Ashbourne BID Board, finalising governance arrangements, recruiting a BID Manager and preparing for operational delivery ahead of December.

Businesses can learn more about the BID and its plan at www.ashbournebid.co.uk or by contacting john.graham@groundwork.org.uk or visiting https://www.groundwork.org.uk/clm/business-improvement-districts/