FAQs
Find answers to common questions about Mansfield Forward BID, our services, how we support businesses, and what being a BID member means.
About Mansfield Forward BID
What is the Mansfield BID?
Mansfield Forward BID is a not-for-profit company, funded by businesses in Mansfield town centre to deliver additional services and projects that improve trading conditions. Since 2010, the BID has invested in safety, cleaning, promotion, business support, and footfall-driving initiatives.
Who actually is Mansfield Forward BID?
The BID is governed by a board of local business representatives from across sectors and business sizes. All levy payers are eligible to join the board and vote in annual elections, provided their levy is fully paid.
How is Mansfield Forward BID run?
Mansfield Forward BID is led by a small professional team and overseen by its board of directors. The board meets every two months and sets strategic direction based on member priorities and the agreed business plan.
How long is a BID term?
The BID operates on a five-year term. The current term runs from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2030.
Have BIDs worked elsewhere?
Yes. There are over 330 BIDs across the UK, with around 95% voted in for a second term, showing strong support from business communities nationwide.
BID Projects & Delivery
How have the projects in this business plan been chosen?
Every project is based on direct consultation with town centre businesses. Priorities like footfall, safety, events, promotion, and business voice came from surveys, 1-1 visits, and feedback from levy payers.
What benefits do BIDs bring to everyone?
Nationally, BIDs have helped reduce crime, increase footfall, improve public spaces, drive local pride, and give businesses a stronger voice. Mansfield Forward BID has delivered measurable impact across all these areas.
What’s in it for me?
As a levy payer, you gain access to over £2,500 worth of services per year—from free PAT testing and maintenance days to promotional campaigns, events, business support, and exclusive training.
Will the BID look for other sources of funding?
Yes. Mansfield Forward BID regularly secures additional funding through grants, event sponsorship, and service charges. Every penny is reinvested into town centre projects.
Can BID projects be amended?
Yes. Projects and budgets can be adjusted by the board in response to feedback and business needs—as long as they align with the overall business plan and available resources.
Levy & Financial Info
Who has to pay a BID levy?
All properties in the BID area with a rateable value of £2,501 or more are liable. This includes independent retailers, national chains, landlords, charities, and public bodies.
What will it cost me?
For 2025–2030:
£0–£2,500: Exempt
£2,501–£10,000: £225 per year
£10,001+: 2.75% of rateable value
Four Seasons businesses: 1.75% of rateable value
The levy is fixed for five years and increases by 5% annually from April 2026.
£0–£2,500: Exempt
£2,501–£10,000: £225 per year
£10,001+: 2.75% of rateable value
Four Seasons businesses: 1.75% of rateable value
The levy is fixed for five years and increases by 5% annually from April 2026.
Is VAT charged on the levy?
No. VAT is not applied to the BID levy.
What happens if my premises is vacant?
The levy is still payable even if a property is empty, derelict, or listed. If no lease is in place, the landlord is responsible.
What if we are a charity?
Retail-trading charities are not exempt. All eligible premises pay the levy under the same rules.
What if we claim small business relief?
Small business rate relief does not exempt a business from paying the BID levy if its rateable value is over £2,500.
How do we pay the levy?
Mansfield District Council issues the invoice and collects the levy on behalf of the BID. All levy income is ringfenced for BID use only.
Who will I pay my BID levy to?
Invoices are issued by Mansfield District Council. Payments are collected by them and passed directly to the BID company, which is independently managed and not part of the Council.
Will the council and other public sector bodies pay the BID levy?
Yes. Councils and public agencies with rateable properties in the BID area pay the levy just like private businesses.
Will my BID levy change?
Yes. After the first year, it will increase annually by 5% to reflect inflation and cost pressures. The formula is fixed in the 2025–2030 business plan.
Ballot & Accountability
What happens at the ballot?
All eligible properties get a vote. To continue, the BID must secure a majority of YES votes by number and by total rateable value. There is no minimum turnout requirement. The next ballot runs in October/November 2029.
How will the BID be evaluated?
Success will be monitored using clear performance indicators, feedback, and independent reporting. The BID will publish an Annual Report, hold an AGM, share regular updates, and complete a full mid-term review.
Isn’t this just a way for councils to save money?
No. By law, BIDs cannot replace or fund services already delivered by councils or the police. They must add value—not cover cuts. Baseline service agreements are in place to guarantee this.
Didn’t Find the Answer? Get in Touch!
Call or email us directly!
