Elgin is Moray's main retail centre but for many years has been overshadowed by Aberdeen and Inverness with which it has competed for trade.  It is hoped that forming a BID in the town centre will create a more vibrant environment and encourage new investment.

A seminar is to be held at Elgin Town Hall on Monday, October 27 at 6.00pm, to provide details on how a Business Improvement District can help to vitalise and increase economic impact of the town centre. Ian Davison Porter, BIDS Project Director Scotland, and business representatives from successful Pathfinder areas will provide an overview along with Rural Development Company Consultant, John Grieve, who will explain the work to be undertaken for a successful BID for Elgin.  A temporary Working Group has been formed and secured in September all development funding from the Scottish Government, the Moray Council, HIE and Moray Chamber of Commerce Elgin Sub-committee.

The Elgin business community has a wealth of expertise and knowledge of the town and what additional services/projects and improvements could be undertaken. It is therefore essential that they can work in collaboration to create a positive way forward to ensure their business remains buoyant in the marketplace.  It is hoped that the seminar will encourage businesses from all sectors, no matter how small to come forward and help steer the Elgin BID forward to a successful outcome.

This event, will provide an opportunity to businesses including shops, offices, banks etc., who are invited to attend with one of the main aims to create a platform for hear their views, ideas and suggestions. Their valuable contributions will set in motion, the path towards positive changes to help drive forward this exciting proposal, to develop the town centre into a vibrant and exciting place to visit.  Business representatives will also be encouraged to sign up to an Elgin BID Steering Group who will lead the  work forward.

It would be helpful for those wishing to attend the seminar can note their interest by telephoning or e-mailing Jill Cameron on 01343 563347 or
E-mail  jill.cameron@moray.gov.uk