Dún Laoghaire ratepayers vote yes to Business District

DUN Laoghaire is set to be transformed into a thriving retail capital after a vote to introduce a Business Improvement District was passed recently.

The Business Improvement District (BID) project will see Dún Laoghaire traders form a Limited Company, funded by the ratepayers themselves, to improve their commercial affairs.

One of the first target areas to be set in motion under the new scheme will be negotiating discounts for all 805 businesses in the area on service charges such as electricity, waste collection and insurance.

Dún Laoghaire Business Association, the proponents of the BID scheme, said they were thrilled with the result of the vote.

Chairman Don McManus said they wanted to assure those who were skeptical about BID that they hope to work together with them so they will see direct benefits.

“The major objection from the no side was the cost to business, which we completely understand at a time when all businesses are stretched,

? he said.

“A total of 70 per cent of businesses will be paying less than

?¬200 per annum and we are confident that through initiatives such as collective bargaining, the benefits and savings will far outweigh the costs.

?

Once the BID is officially introduced, the company will launch a major PR drive to attract new high-end quality retailers to fill the empty premises, so Dún Laoghaire will have a competitive edge as a leading Dublin shopping destination.

“Dún Laoghaire can offer the ultimate shopping experience,

? Mr McManus added.

“It is a beautiful seaside town with spectacular views and with the right high-end retail mix.

“We expect a landmark increase in footfall over the coming months, with a complete overhaul expected at the end of the five year BID period.

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