FIRMS have been sent ballot papers signalling a local referendum to decide whether Winchester city centre becomes a Business Improvement District.

Non-domestic rate-payers have 21 days to review the City Centre Partnership's business plan proposals and to respond through the ballot, which is being conducted by the city council. A CD-ROM containing everything businesses need to know about the proposals has been circulated to all premises affected by the ballot.

The partnership is encouraging businesses to "Vote yes for a better Winchester".

There must be a majority, both on the basis of numbers and rateable value, for the proposal to be carried and then the BID will begin on April 1 next year and last five years.

Partnership chairman, Jeremy France, said: "We want as many businesses as possible to exercise their vote. Feedback has been positive throughout the BID consultation but the ballot is the acid test.

"If Winchester votes for positive change, then the BID can deliver local improvements directed by business for the benefit of the trading and commercial environment.

"The business leaders I have talked with view the BID as a positive investment, with benefits to be realised both now and in the longer term."

Gillian Robinson, manager of the privately-owned Winchester Hotel, said: "The BID can only improve Winchester as a place to work and I would welcome this investment in the local trading environment.

"Once the BID foundations are in place, it can only enhance the working relations we have with other businesses as we work together to address key issues." The Partnership's proposals, which include firms paying a 1.5 per cent levy on top of non-domestic rates, have been developed with the support of Winchester City Council and the North Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

For further information, long onto www.wincity.uk. com/bid or ring 01962 850390.