BID to be established in Leatherhead

New Business Improvement District to be established in Leatherhead

Businesses in Leatherhead town centre have voted to establish a Business Improvement District (BID), set to run for an initial five-year term.

This development means that, starting in January 2026, the new Leatherhead BID will begin delivering a wide range of projects and services designed to enhance and revitalise the town centre. The BID will be funded by a 2% levy on business premises with a rateable value of £8,000 or more within the BID boundary, ensuring dedicated investment goes into the town centre.

The formal declaration of the ballot result can be viewed on the Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) website.

Councillor Paula Keay, MVDC Cabinet Member for Sustainable Economy, said: “The establishment of a new BID is a positive step forward for Leatherhead and I look forward to working with the new BID board. It builds on the success of BIDs across neighbouring towns, enabling local businesses to deliver town centre improvements across the area and will ensure that Leatherhead can benefit from fresh initiatives, and a brighter future for businesses and the community alike.”

Bruce Shaw, Director, BID Shadow Board, said: “The Leatherhead BID Shadow Board is delighted that businesses have voted in favour of establishing a Business Improvement District for the town centre, marking an exciting new chapter for Leatherhead. Following the short statutory standstill period, the hard work begins in January, with the Board immediately commencing delivery of the business plan, starting with the recruitment of a dedicated BID Co-ordinator to lead day-to-day activity. We warmly encourage more businesses to get actively involved in shaping Leatherhead’s future, whether by joining the Board or participating in themed working groups, and we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who supported and contributed to the BID’s development journey.”

A Business Improvement District (BID) is a business-led and business-funded body formed to improve a defined commercial area, playing a crucial role in revitalising town centres across the UK. The majority of BIDs exist in town and city centres, however they are also in industrial, commercial and mixed-use locations.