BUSINESS owners say they are “fed up” with their Business Improvement District (BID) and are questioning where their money is going. 

Wimborne business owners are saying they are angry at Wimborne BID and are submitting letters of no confidence to its chairperson Fiona Harwood. 

Ms Harwood defended her role in the BID, saying there is “so much to be proud of” in Wimborne. 

One business owner, who wished to keep his name and company anonymous, said: “Many businesses are now questioning where their money is going. 

Bournemouth Echo:

“They can’t answer our questions and can’t understand why so many business owners are disgruntled, especially businesses on the outskirts of the town. 

“Businesses are fed up with not being listened to. This is the worst board since I have been here.” 

The business owner added the town is “thriving” but is only being let down by the BID, of which the person pays £150 a year. 

“I could spend that money on my own marketing and do a more effective job than this non-existent advertising,” the business owner said. “This year’s Christmas advert was thrown together in five days. 

“I can’t listen to any more excuses.”

Read more: Plans unveiled to bring back Wimborne Minster's historic markets

Fiona Harwood, Wimborne BID chairperson, said: “There’s so much we’re proud of in Wimborne – our amazing variety of shops, cultural heritage, welcoming atmosphere, and bustling hospitality sector.  

“And we’re very proud of the work we’ve done, and will continue to do, to promote the town and help our businesses thrive. 

“We’ve had the backing of levy payers for the past 12 years and were overwhelmingly voted in again for a third term in 2021, with the biggest majority yet.”  

Read more: Can you spot what is wrong with this road sign along the A31?

Tammy Sleet, Wimborne BID Manager, said: “We’re delighted to see the results of the BID’s hard work showing.  

“From our research and feedback from some of our levy payers, Wimborne is bucking the trend for retail in town centres with an increase in footfall.  

“But we are aware that some levy payers are currently disgruntled with our efforts.” 

“We always listen to the views and concerns of our levy payers so we can provide the most benefit for the businesses of Wimborne.  

“Every initiative we run, which are designed to increase footfall in the town, has the backing of levy payers, many of whom sit on our board, which is a voluntary role.”