A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area where local businesses work together to invest in projects and services that enhance the local trading environment and support economic growth.

BIDs deliver initiatives such as markets and events, community safety schemes, place marketing and promotion, and public space enhancements (e.g. floral planting and festive lights), all designed to make the area more attractive to businesses, visitors, and residents.

BIDs are funded through a levy (based on a small percentage of rateable value) on business ratepayers within the area, with all funds ring-fenced for local priorities agreed by the business community. Before a BID can be established (and every five years thereafter), local businesses within the proposed area must vote in favour of the BID through a formal ballot.

Within the London Borough of Bexley, there are currently two active BIDs:

• Sidcup Partners
• Bexleyheath Business Partnership

Both working to strengthen their town centres and deliver real benefits for local businesses and the wider community.

Paying a BID levy

BID levy payers can make payments via the NNDR portal.

When making a payment, please ensure you quote your BID reference number as shown on your demand notice.

BID reference numbers are 9 digits long and begin with ‘98’.

To avoid delays in processing, do not include any prefixes or suffixes when entering the reference number.