A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area where business rate payers have voted in a ballot to pay a levy, in addition to business rates, into a fund for a fixed period (normally five years), and that levy is then managed to deliver specific agreed initiatives to benefit the BID area.
Ballot information and list of streets
In September 2025, we received a proposal for a BID in Carlisle, with an instruction to hold a ballot.
As the ballot holder, we are responsible for producing the ballot that includes the list of streets within the proposed BID area.
Who can vote in the ballot
Eligible voters are non-domestic ratepayers liable for the BID levy as at the date of the notice and they are entitled to have one vote in respect of each property occupied or owned by them in the geographical area of the proposed BID.
When you can vote in the ballot
Ballot papers will be sent to those who are eligible to vote by Thursday 30 October 2025.
If you have not received your ballot paper by Friday 21 November 2025 you may apply to UK Engage for a replacement paper, providing evidence as to your identity.
UK Engage
The Tannery
Water Street
Stockport
SK1 2BP
Result of the ballot
Ballot papers will be counted by Thursday 27 November 2025 and the result will be announced on Friday 28 November 2025.
For a BID ballot to be successful there must be a majority of those voting in favour of the proposal, both in terms of the numbers voting and also the rateable value represented by those voting.
For further information visit the Carlisle Business Improvement District website.