BOURNEMOUTH has the chance to “sharpen its competitive edge” as a world-class resort after its two business improvement districts (BIDs) were given fresh five-year mandates, it is claimed.

The resort is the only town in the country to have two BIDs – one for the town centre and one for the coastal areas.

Both received backing for a new five-year term from the businesses whose levies pay for their work promoting the town.

Bournemouth Town Centre BID was backed by 78 per cent of businesses voting – representing 89 per cent of the rateable value of voting businesses. Turnout was 50 per cent, with 700 businesses eligible to vote.

Bournemouth Coastal BID was backed by 55 per cent of voters, or 74 per cent by rateable value, on a turnout of 39 per cent.

Bill Cotton, Bournemouth Borough Council’s executive director for environment and economy, said: “I am absolutely delighted that so many businesses have backed both the town centre and coastal BIDs.

“This means that Bournemouth and the coastal villages will continue to benefit from this vital promotional revenue for the next five years, and is an absolute testament to the great work of both BIDs since their creation five years ago.

“Bournemouth is the only town in the UK with two BIDs. This shows a great commitment to working together to sharpen our competitive edge as a dynamic, world class resort with so much on offer for those who visit, live and work here.”

The town centre BID is due to start delivering its new five-year business plan from July 1. The plan is said to be worth £3million in investment for the town centre.

It will include raising the town centre’s profile, increasing footfall and creating a better trading environment. There will be money for extra cleaning and environmental improvements, as well as the continuation of events and festivals, town centre rangers and marketing and promotion.

The office sector is in the BID for the first time.

The Coastal BID says a combination of levy, venture partnerships and voluntary contributions will give it a budget of £6.5m.

Priorities in its business plan include targeted marketing and events.

Paul Clarke, chairman of Bournemouth Coastal BID and cluster general manager of Hallmark Hotels, said: “In the next five years, we will continue to grow Bournemouth’s reputation as a world-class destination and thriving business hub.”