The Old Town is the heart of Edinburgh, welcoming over 2.56 million international visitors every year.
While our streets are world-famous, local businesses often lack a unified voice in how our district is managed.The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) is our chance to change that.
By working together, we can:
- Take Control: Ring-fence investment to be spent only on projects you vote for.
- Enhance the Area: Improve local cleanliness, safety, and street-level appeal.
- Boost Business: Ensure the Old Town remains Scotland’s premier destination for locals and tourists alike.
Building a Business Improvement District is a transparent, multi-stage process.
We are currently in the consultation phase, ensuring every local business has their say before the final plan is set in stone.
Phase 1: Research & Feasibility (Current) Gathering data and feedback from Old Town business owners to identify key priorities.
Phase 2: Business Plan Development (Winter 2026) Drafting the formal proposal based directly on your feedback and project requirements.
Phase 3: The Campaign (Early 2027) Sharing the final vision and showing how the ring-fenced investment will be spent.
Phase 4: The Formal Ballot (March 2027) The defining moment where businesses vote to officially launch the Old Town BID.
A: We haven't got to that stage yet. This poll is just to find out if there's interest in exploring it. If there is, there would be full consultation before anyfinancial decisions.
A: They did, a few years back. This is a fresh look at it with a different approach, and the situation has changed, particularly with the Visitor Levy nowin place. But that's exactly why we're asking first before committing to anything.
A: A group of local business owners, across retail, hospitality, tourism and hotels. The council is supportive but this is business-led. Have a look atoldtownbid.co.uk for more detail."
A: Yes, completely. The poll doesn't capture your name or business unless you choose to leave your contact details at the end, which is entirelyoptional.
A: Nothing, by participating in the poll or voting for it is in no way binding, we’re just trying to understand level of interest.
A: That’s something we will be all discussing and agreeing down the line in consultation and agreement with businesses, more information will be on oldtownbid.co.uk.